QNA
Doha
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina Dr. Bisera Turkovic stressed that the State of Qatar did an amazing job to welcome the world during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and succeeded in establishing an incredible and excellent infrastructure, indicating that the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has set new standards for future sporting mega-events.
In her remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Her Excellency pointed out that Qatar's hosting of such a global event will inspire generations of young people to come to embrace each other and create a more tolerant world. She said: "The whole world was watching the Al Bayt stadium for the opening ceremony. I am happy that I was present as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, from the Western Balkans and a European country. The opening was a great global event for the first time to be held in an Arab country. Qatar has emerged into a modern, prosperous state, whose citizens enjoy opportunities and security, thanks to the wise leadership of HH the Amir, following the footsteps of HH the Father Amir." HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina stressed the need to develop a culture of tolerance and respect, as highlighted during the World Cup opening ceremony. "This is the first World Cup taking place in an Arab country and in a Middle Eastern country. It is a great chance for people to get to know a different culture and to learn about one great religion in the world," she said.
"The more we know the better chance we have for progress and stability in the world. Qatar offers an open hand to all who want to come and witness what the Qatari nation achieved in such a short period of time offering unity of basic values and appreciation for difference with full respect of their own culture and religion," she added.
Dr. Bisera Turkovic indicated that previous World Cup hosting countries were not subjected to smear campaigns as Qatar was, saying: "Other countries did not receive such scrutiny when hosting global sporting events, even though those countries had many more things that could be criticized." She explained that Qatar once again stresses that there is more that can unite people rather than divide them, and as sports are a healthy part of societies, it should remain clear from political influence, struggle to dominate, and imposition of bad habits such as alcohol and drugs.
The Bosnian official expressed her happiness that a Bosnian folklore group was present to take part in the world cup festivities at Katara Cultural Village for this truly global event.
On the other hand, the Deputy Prime Minister pointed out that there are strong fields of cooperation between Bosnia and the State of Qatar, including political, economic, and cultural cooperation that is based on friendship and fraternity. This has been maintained through the exchange of visits between officials of the two countries at the highest levels and documented by the signing of many agreements and bilateral cooperation protocols. she expressed her hope to see economic cooperation expansion during the coming period in all sectors.
She added that the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina has been working hard to attract public and private investment from Qatar by having more connectivity between the two countries, enabling direct flights with Qatar Airways, and increasing rights and security for Qataris in ownership of the real estate in Bosnia.