Al-Marsad newspaper: The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad, said that the energy crisis is not caused by the Russian war in Ukraine, and he also responded to criticism of his country’s organization of the 2022 World Cup.
Sheikh Tamim’s comments came in response to a question about whether Doha will play a role in bridging the energy crisis gap in the world, on the sidelines of his participation in the Davos Forum, on Monday.
His position on the energy crisis
In answering the question, the Emir of Qatar said: “The energy crisis was not due to the war in Europe, it was much earlier, but it may have deepened the energy crisis in the world.”
He added, “We are an exporter market and we know that there is a demand for gas. We use the latest technology tools in energy extraction to preserve the environment and reduce gas waste.”
He indicated that his country is in contact with the parties to the Ukrainian crisis, expressing his country’s readiness to make efforts to find a peaceful solution.
The Emir of the State of Qatar said that resolving conflicts through aggression is increasing and has reached its peak in Europe.
His response to criticism of Qatar’s organization of the World Cup
Sheikh Tamim also criticized the “attacks” of people in “positions of influence” against Qatar’s organization of the World Cup.
He said, “For the first time Qatar will host the World Cup in the Middle East. The Middle East has suffered for decades from discrimination stemming from people who do not know us and refuse to try to identify us (…) These individuals are in positions of influence who launch attacks.”
“Qatar is not perfect and is trying to make improvements and is feeling hopeful. I assure (it is) a special version of the World Cup.”