Wednesday, Apr. 18, 2012

Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber al-Thani

A wise personality, a model leader and a man of broad vision, Sheik Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber al-Thani, 52, has played an important role in the development of his country and the rise in his people's level of affluence.

As Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, he has contributed significantly to the increase in Qatar's influence in the international arena. His contributions toward the resolution of problems in the region, in particular in advancing reconciliation among Palestinian groups and his diplomatic efforts during the Arab Spring, are worthy of commendation.

That Qatar will host the 2022 FIFA World Cup is a wonderful development for our region.

I am also pleased by the momentum gained in Turkish-Qatari relations and by the fact that my close friend and I share the same vision when it comes to international affairs.

Erdogan is the Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey