President 'delighted' at Muslim country hosting FIFA World Cup

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said on Sunday that he was delighted that a Muslim country was hosting this FIFA World Cup.

President Solih sent on Sunday greetings and well wishes to the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Thamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, for a successful FIFA World Cup 2022 hosted in Qatar this year.

President Solih wrote to the Emir saying that he was confident that the tournament would live on in football fans' memories for years to come and that the Maldives and the rest of the world eagerly anticipate a vibrant opening ceremony highlighting the rich culture and traditions of Qatar, followed by exceptional sportsmanship over the next few weeks.

The president added that he was delighted that a Muslim country hosted this World Cup and that it was encouraging to watch the Qatari administration deal with the many challenges that had been placed in its path in the run-up to the competition with such professionalism and foresight.