German Ambassador to Qatar Praises Ideal Organization of FIFA Club World Cup in Light of COVID-19 Pandemic

Doha, February 10 (QNA) - HE Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the State of Qatar Dr. Claudius Fischbach praised the ideal organization of the FIFA Club World Cup - Qatar 2020 in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, looking forward to seeing a wonderful version of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which will be held for the first time in the Middle East and the Arab world. In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE Germany Ambassador said, "Hosting a tournament in such conditions is not easy and I commend the Qatari Government for all its efforts in securing the safety of all. Despite the increasing number of cases, and the threat of a 2nd wave, the country and the Local Organizing Committee has put measures in place to ensure that the teams and players are not put at any risk." "Of course Bayern Munich is the most successful team in German football history. They have won the Bundesliga 30 times since they joined in 1965, the National cup 20 times and last year won their 6th Champions League title. "They are currently leading the Bundesliga with a safe margin of 7 points. All these results are testament of their impressive domination in the sport. I have personally followed their success as I am a football fan myself. I expect nothing less than the highest standard of performance in this tournament despite 2 players will not be joining the team as they are currently recovering from COVID-19. "I know that Bayern has a strong fan club here, as in many other places around the world. Their reputation is strong and Im sure that they would have many more fans present, if we werent in the midst of a global pandemic which requires adherence to strict travel conditions. "The team has very close links to Qatar, whether it be with the Aspire Zone Foundation during their winter training camp or their partnership with Qatar Airways. Bayern Munich considers the camp to be the perfect opportunity for the team to prepare for the 2nd half of the season and I believe that many of the players and team members consider Doha to be their home away from home." "I am happy to add that Bayern Munich has also been engaging with the Qatari society such as developing an "equality program" with Qatari Womens Sports Committee, which is aiming at equal rights and the empowerment of women. HE the Ambassador added, "In my 6 months as Ambassador to Qatar, I am impressed by the speed at which the country has advanced in terms of infrastructure and readiness ahead of the FIFA World Cup in 2022. All 8 stadiums are landmarks in their own way, with a mix of modernity, cultural representation and architecture in line with the Qatari heritage. "Of course, all this wouldnt have been possible without the thousands of workers who contributed to the construction of these stadiums. Germany welcomes the comprehensive reforms undertaken by Qatari authorities in close co-operation with the International Labor Organization (ILO) during the past years." He explained, "One more very important aspect in my eyes is that Qatar has promised to deliver the first carbon neutral FIFA World Cup. Despite the certain challenges it will face, I am eager to see how they will reach their goal and believe that there are several opportunities for cooperation with Germany. German companies belong to the global leaders in green technologies and are certainly well placed to contribute to this goal by providing cutting edge technology. "In general terms, sports can play a very big role in bringing countries together through sports diplomacy and, as with all previous editions, the FWC manages to bring many nations together. It is not only about the game but an opportunity for cultural exchanges through the love of the sport. Qatar is an interesting place to visit throughout the year and the country has put a lot of effort in highlighting the culture and traditions it is proud of. "I look forward to seeing many fans come to Qatar and experience a fantastic FIFA World Club 2022," HE the Ambassador concluded. (QNA)