Doha Goals Forum Part of Unique, Long-term Qatari Strategy - Gabon's President

Doha, December 11 (QNA) - The Doha Goals Forum is part of a long-term Qatari strategy initiated by HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, which aims at utilizing sport in supporting economic and social development as well as addressing challenges at all levels, President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon said. Ondimba, who was delivering a speech before the opening ceremony of the Doha Goals Forum at Aspire Zone, described the idea of creating Doha Goals Forum as unique and successful initiative of the State of Qatar, especially knowing that Qatar has recently been attracting all kinds of global sports. The objectives of the Doha Forum, he said, accomplish the young people desire from all over the world, particularly as sport became a key player in the economy in various countries. "That applies well to the State of Qatar," he said. The Gabonese President said that Aspire Academy is a good testament to the dramatic evolution of sports in Qatar, pointing out that this academy employs a lot of African talents, and has an important and unique role in creating a favorable condition for sport. Ondimba predicted that Qatar will succeed in organizing the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the highest level possible, and pointed out that Qatar is seeking through the organization of this global event to back peace in the Middle East as well as enhance cultural and social exchanges between the peoples. He said that the sport in Africa has become the focus of attention of the world because of the African sports figures in various games, stressing that Africa has proved to the world that the continent has a large and important contributions in the field of sports. (QNA)