LONDON: Qatar’s preparatory progress towards its hosting of the 2022 World Cup is being accompanied by the pursuit of long-term partners, according to Hassan Al Thawadi.

The secretary-general of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy set out his additional task in addressing delegates at a Qatar-UK business and investment forum in London and Birmingham.

Al Thawadi said: “This tournament will accelerate change and assist the country in achieving its goals, whether that is infrastructure, economic development goals, or even social and human development goals which are part of the Qatar National Vision 2030.”

He continued: “The approach we had is that we started with our legacy projects early on. So even when we talk about partnerships with companies, what we are looking for is not short-term partnerships.

“The opportunities that are related directly to the World Cup, or even the opportunities that our stakeholders are delivering in terms of infrastructure required for the World Cup, the approach has always been to look towards long-term partners.”

Al Thawadi also announced the signing of two security agreements. He said: “The great experience of the British security forces in securing stadiums and major events is no secret.

“Therefore, we are working with the British security authorities to take advantage of their experience in establishing a national police unit for the security of stadiums.”

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