With controversy surrounding the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Qatar doesn't seem to end. With the 'supreme committee', which is organising the mega event, announcing that as many as nine migrant labourers, working on stadiums for the quadrennial event, lost their lives in the year 2019, the pressure seems to be growing on the organisers. The latest report has now brought up the number of deaths on FIFA World Cup 2020 projects to 34 since the construction began six years back.

As many as 31 deaths have been bracketed under 'non-work related' – a term the supreme committee uses for deaths outside worksite. As per its latest annual report on workers' welfare, there were no deaths at the workplace in 2019. However, three were killed in a bus accident with others breathing their last due to 'natural causes'.

“Any loss of life on our programme is deeply saddening,” said Hassan Al Thawadi, the head of the supreme committee, in the report.

As per the norms, Qatari law and supreme committee's worker welfate standards need not pay compensation for non-work related deaths, however, as per a report in the Guardian, Qatar hardly carries out post-mortem after a migrant worker's death.

Moreover, there have been calls to reform pay-scale laws and the labour system. However, workers’ rights activists have criticised the lack of progress with less than three years to go before the World Cup kicks off. However, FIFA has stated that the 2022 World Cup has already played a major role in improving labour rights in Qatar while adding: “additional progress is needed for the full implementation of the commitments for comprehensive labour reform.”

With controversy surrounding the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Qatar doesn't seem to end. With the 'supreme committee', which is organising the mega event, announcing that as many as nine migrant labourers, working on stadiums for the quadrennial event, lost their lives in the year 2019, the pressure seems to be growing on the organisers.

With controversy surrounding the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Qatar doesn't seem to end. With the 'supreme committee', which is organising the mega event, announcing that as many as nine migrant labourers, working on stadiums for the quadrennial event, lost their lives in the year 2019, the pressure seems to be growing on the organisers. The latest report has now brought up the number of deaths on FIFA World Cup 2020 projects to 34 since the construction began six years back. As many as 31 deaths have been bracketed under 'non-work related' – a term the supreme committee uses for deaths outside worksite. As per its latest annual report on workers' welfare, there were no deaths at the workplace in 2019. However, three were killed in a bus accident with others breathing their last due to 'natural causes'. “Any loss of life on our programme is deeply saddening,” said Hassan Al Thawadi, the head of the supreme committee, in the report. As per the norms, Qatari law and supreme committee's worker welfate standards need not pay compensation for non-work related deaths, however, as per a report in the Guardian, Qatar hardly carries out post-mortem after a migrant worker's death. Moreover, there have been calls to reform pay-scale laws and the labour system. However, workers’ rights activists have criticised the lack of progress with less than three years to go before the World Cup kicks off. However, FIFA has stated that the 2022 World Cup has already played a major role in improving labour rights in Qatar while adding: “additional progress is needed for the full implementation of the commitments for comprehensive labour reform.”

FIFA World Cup 2022: Report reveals 34 workers' death in 6 years in Qatar

Foreign Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/harsh-vardhan-shringla-takes-charge-as-new-foreign-secretary-277315">Harsh Vardhan Shringla</a> on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Ahmed Al Banna and discussed future steps on consolidating bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership in new areas between the two countries, an official said.

"Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador @drahmedalbanna of #UAE. FS expressed happiness at the strong and growing bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discussed next steps to consolidate our ties and seek partnership in new areas," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

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Foreign Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/HarshShringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarshShringla</a> met Ambassador of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields. <a href="https://twitter.com/FranceinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FranceinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/harshvshringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harshvshringla</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ncZcFUW6D">pic.twitter.com/8ncZcFUW6D</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1237248619503185921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Watch: Exclusive conversation with UAE Ambassador Dr Ahmed Al Banna

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Qatar has temporarily banned the entry of people arriving from 15 countries, including India, Pakistan, and China.

In an advisory, Qatar's government communications office also denied "all individuals intending to enter from these countries, including visas upon arrival, those with a residence or work permit, and temporary visitors."

UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Friday said an Indian national is among 15 new cases of the deadly coronavirus in the Middle East country.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Ahmed Al Banna and discussed future steps on consolidating bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership in new areas between the two countries, an official said.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Ahmed Al Banna and discussed future steps on consolidating bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership in new areas between the two countries, an official said. "Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador @drahmedalbanna of #UAE. FS expressed happiness at the strong and growing bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discussed next steps to consolidate our ties and seek partnership in new areas," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador of #France Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields. @FranceinIndia @harshvshringla pic.twitter.com/8ncZcFUW6D — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 10, 2020 × Watch: Exclusive conversation with UAE Ambassador Dr Ahmed Al Banna Qatar has temporarily banned the entry of people arriving from 15 countries, including India, Pakistan, and China. In an advisory, Qatar's government communications office also denied "all individuals intending to enter from these countries, including visas upon arrival, those with a residence or work permit, and temporary visitors." UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Friday said an Indian national is among 15 new cases of the deadly coronavirus in the Middle East country.

Foreign Secretary meets UAE ambassador, discusses new avenues for strategic partnership

Qatar has temporarily barred travellers from 14 countries from March 9 as a precaution against the rapidly spreading coronavirus, the government announced on Sunday.

The ban covers China, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gatherings-banned-travel-restricted-as-coronavirus-cases-grow-worldwide-283549">Gatherings banned, travel restricted as coronavirus cases grow worldwide</a>

Qatar Airways had already suspended flights to and from Italy.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-spread-not-inevitable-mulls-new-travel-bans-donald-trump-282969">&nbsp;US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans: Donald Trump</a>

Qatar reported three more cases of the virus on Sunday, bringing the total there to 15.

Qatar has temporarily barred travellers from 14 countries from March 9 as a precaution against the rapidly spreading coronavirus, the government announced on Sunday.

Qatar has temporarily barred travellers from 14 countries from March 9 as a precaution against the rapidly spreading coronavirus, the government announced on Sunday. The ban covers China, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand. Also Read: Gatherings banned, travel restricted as coronavirus cases grow worldwide Qatar Airways had already suspended flights to and from Italy. Also Read: US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans: Donald Trump Qatar reported three more cases of the virus on Sunday, bringing the total there to 15.

Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears

Representatives from the Taliban and United States officials have signed an agreement in the Qatari capital, Doha, following 18 months of talks in a bid to end Washington's longest war.

US, Taliban signs historic peace accord at month's end ! What does it mean?

The United States signed a deal with Taliban insurgents on February 29 which will lead to the full withdrawal of foreign soldiers from Afghanistan over the next 14 months. The U. President Donald Trump on February 29 said he would be personally meeting leaders of the Taliban in the near future.

8,600 US troops in Afghanistan to be withdrawn in 14 months | Afghan Peace Deal

Donald Trump: I'll be meeting personally with Taliban leaders

A major deal will be signed in Doha. The representatives from United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today.

India to attend US-Taliban Afghan peace deal ceremony

A major deal will be signed in Doha. The representatives from the United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years.

Watch: WION's ground report from Qatar on Afghan peace deal

The representatives from the United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years. India has also been invited by the Qatar government to the peace deal ceremony.

Taliban's Suhail Shaheen Exclusively speaks to WION

Afghan Peace Deal: 'Will ensure Afghanistan is never used as terror base' says Mike Pompeo

The U.S. Secretary of Defence Mark Esper and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg issue a joint statement with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on combating terrorism in Afghanistan and supporting the Afghan security and defence forces.

Prez Ashraf Ghani gives US-Afghan joint statement

Afghan peace deal after 18 months of intense negotiations

Afghan Peace deal: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reaches Doha

US, Taliban to sign deal aimed at bringing peace to Afghanistan

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to Ashraf Ghani on his re-election as the Afghanistan President A major deal will be signed in Doha. The representatives from the United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years.

What role India has in US-Taliban peace deal?

US-Taliban peace deal would lead to complete withdrawal of US troops?

Who will be most affected by US-Taliban peace deal?

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday warned Iran not to scuttle an upcoming agreement with the Taliban, accusing the US adversary of seeking to be a "spoiler."

Pompeo confirmed that a one-week partial truce was holding with the Taliban, who are scheduled to sign the landmark accord with the United States in Qatar on Saturday.

"There is a history of Iran engaging in activity inside of Afghanistan to act as a spoiler," Pompeo told the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

"We've seen just these last six days a significant reduction in violence in Afghanistan and we are watching closely to see if the Islamic Republic of Iran begins to take even more active measure that undermine our efforts at peace and reconciliation," he said.

He warned that Iran could increase risks for US troops, whose numbers are expected to be sharply scaled down under the Doha agreement.

Iran's Shiite clerical regime has been historically opposed to the Taliban, which practices an austere brand of Sunni Islam, and quietly backed the 2001 US-led invasion that toppled the Taliban regime.

Iran was part of a coalition that backed the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance and in 1998 amassed troops near the Afghan border after a Taliban assault on Iran's consulate in Herat.

But Iran has increasingly been involved in proxy conflicts with the United States elsewhere, notably in Iraq.

Iran has been mostly cautious in its recent comments on Afghanistan.

But Foreign Minister Javad Zarif last year criticized the US talks with the Taliban, saying they only boosted the extremists and alienated the internationally-backed government.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday warned Iran not to scuttle an upcoming agreement with the Taliban, accusing the US adversary of seeking to be a "spoiler.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday warned Iran not to scuttle an upcoming agreement with the Taliban, accusing the US adversary of seeking to be a "spoiler." Pompeo confirmed that a one-week partial truce was holding with the Taliban, who are scheduled to sign the landmark accord with the United States in Qatar on Saturday. "There is a history of Iran engaging in activity inside of Afghanistan to act as a spoiler," Pompeo told the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "We've seen just these last six days a significant reduction in violence in Afghanistan and we are watching closely to see if the Islamic Republic of Iran begins to take even more active measure that undermine our efforts at peace and reconciliation," he said. He warned that Iran could increase risks for US troops, whose numbers are expected to be sharply scaled down under the Doha agreement. Iran's Shiite clerical regime has been historically opposed to the Taliban, which practices an austere brand of Sunni Islam, and quietly backed the 2001 US-led invasion that toppled the Taliban regime. Iran was part of a coalition that backed the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance and in 1998 amassed troops near the Afghan border after a Taliban assault on Iran's consulate in Herat. But Iran has increasingly been involved in proxy conflicts with the United States elsewhere, notably in Iraq. Iran has been mostly cautious in its recent comments on Afghanistan. But Foreign Minister Javad Zarif last year criticized the US talks with the Taliban, saying they only boosted the extremists and alienated the internationally-backed government.

Mike Pompeo warns Iran not to be 'spoiler' in Afghanistan

Pakistan PM Imran Khan met Qatar's Emir ahead of US-Taliban peace deal.Imran khan visits Doha.

Imran Khan meets Qatar's Emir before US-Taliban Peace Deal

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has postponed his inauguration on US request. This after Washington raised concerns that the controversy over his re-election might hamper the signing of a peace deal with the Taliban, later this week.

Qatar Invites Pakistan to peace deal signing

China's table tennis team has gone to Qatar to seek refuge after accepting Doha's offer of a training base to avoid returning home to&nbsp;China due to the on-going coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sporting-events-that-fell-victim-to-coronavirus-280070">Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus!</a>

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“We are always thinking of how we can help our brothers and sisters out.” This is what the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TableTennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TableTennis</a> family is all about 🙌🏓🙌 
 
Find out more how ITTF &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/QTableTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QTableTennis</a> helped Team China 🇨🇳 train in Qatar 🇶🇦 👉 <a href="https://t.co/SiDKuChMyp">https://t.co/SiDKuChMyp</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZXts0RuB52">pic.twitter.com/ZXts0RuB52</a>
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The squad which consists of 30 players flew to Doha after the conclusion of their successful ITTF German Open campaign recently. China's Xu Xin and Chen Meng won the men's and the women's singles events respectively.&nbsp;

Table tennis is China's national sport, it's participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics is crucial as it has helped the country fetch several&nbsp;gold medals during the Olympics.&nbsp;

The Qatar Table Tennis Association has provided China's table tennis team with meals, accommodation and nearly 15 tables and 2,000 TT (table tennis) balls.&nbsp;

The team is settled in the Aspire Academy Arena, ahead of the Qatar Open. The Qatar Open will commence on March 3. After Qatar, the world championships are set to start in Busan, South Korea, on March 22.

Meanwhile, the death toll from coronavirus surpassed 1,000 on Tuesday which is way more than the 2003's SARS outbreak. The virus had infected 8,098 people and killed 774 in 2003.

In biggest leap in a day, 108 new deaths were reported in the last twenty-four hours. The number is expected to increase further with passing hours. Meanwhile, 42,638 have been infected.

This is just in mainland China. The magnitude, the scale and the pace of this outbreak are unprecedented.&nbsp;

The crisis in Wuhan which is an epicentre of this deadly virus is showing itself in the unlikeliest of ways.

China's table tennis team has gone to Qatar to seek refuge after accepting Doha's offer of a training base to avoid returning home to China due to the on-going coronavirus outbreak.

China's table tennis team has gone to Qatar to seek refuge after accepting Doha's offer of a training base to avoid returning home to China due to the on-going coronavirus outbreak. Also see: Sporting events that fell victim to coronavirus! “We are always thinking of how we can help our brothers and sisters out.” This is what the #TableTennis family is all about 🙌🏓🙌 Find out more how ITTF & @QTableTennis helped Team China 🇨🇳 train in Qatar 🇶🇦 👉 https://t.co/SiDKuChMyp pic.twitter.com/ZXts0RuB52 — ITTF World (@ittfworld) February 11, 2020 × The squad which consists of 30 players flew to Doha after the conclusion of their successful ITTF German Open campaign recently. China's Xu Xin and Chen Meng won the men's and the women's singles events respectively. Table tennis is China's national sport, it's participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics is crucial as it has helped the country fetch several gold medals during the Olympics. The Qatar Table Tennis Association has provided China's table tennis team with meals, accommodation and nearly 15 tables and 2,000 TT (table tennis) balls. The team is settled in the Aspire Academy Arena, ahead of the Qatar Open. The Qatar Open will commence on March 3. After Qatar, the world championships are set to start in Busan, South Korea, on March 22. Meanwhile, the death toll from coronavirus surpassed 1,000 on Tuesday which is way more than the 2003's SARS outbreak. The virus had infected 8,098 people and killed 774 in 2003. In biggest leap in a day, 108 new deaths were reported in the last twenty-four hours. The number is expected to increase further with passing hours. Meanwhile, 42,638 have been infected. This is just in mainland China. The magnitude, the scale and the pace of this outbreak are unprecedented. The crisis in Wuhan which is an epicentre of this deadly virus is showing itself in the unlikeliest of ways.

Coronavirus outbreak: China's table tennis team avoids home trip, take refuge in Qatar

The decision to jointly celebrate the India-Qatar Year of Culture in 2019 was taken during the visit of the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, to Qatar in June 2016. This understanding was reflected in the Joint Statement issued at that time. The Embassy of India, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has since been organising a 'Festival of India' in Qatar, to showcase the deep cultural roots and people-to-people links between India and Qatar. Several events have already been organised as part of this Festival since the beginning of the year and more are to come in the next few months. Here are a few highlights of the festival scattered across a year: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Indian fashion designers at Shop Qatar design district (January 2019)</li>
</ul>

<img alt="hhhh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e50e8af9-53c4-4c1c-85f2-13d5aafe61d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29_16.jpg" />

Five well-known Indian fashion designers - Tarun Tahiliani, Raghavendra Rathore, Wendell Rodricks, Namrata Joshipura and Raw Mango - participated in the displays organised at Shop Qatar Design District in January 2019, as part of the festivities organised under Qatar Shopping Festival 2019. The exquisite designs exhibited by these designers helped showcase the depth of talent and the diversity available in the Indian fashion design industry, in addition to the cultural affinities between India and the Arab world, as shown by the popularity of Indian designs in this part of the world. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Concert by Bollywood singer Arijit Singh (January 2019)</li>
</ul>

<img alt="uuu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="853e62e6-7b08-4f03-b823-938fa1d15358" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_39.jpg" />

Bollywood singing sensation Arijit Singh held a high profile concert and enthralled a large audience of nearly 20,000 with soulful performance on 18th January 2019 at Lusail Sports Arena. The event featured renditions of a number of his much-admired and award-winning tracks. 'One FM Radio' brought the renowned singer to Doha in association with Shop Qatar 2019, the third edition of Qatar's biggest shopping festival that is part of the Qatar National Tourism Council's strategy to grow and diversify the country's tourism offering. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Instrumental Music Ensemble: Jugalbandi&nbsp;(February-March 2019)</li>
</ul>

<img alt="uuu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88bb085c-56f2-441e-b02f-1f1df7fc640b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_17.jpg" />

This event, organised as part of the Festival of India in Qatar and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, featured Tabla virtuoso &amp; percussionist Pandita Anuradha Pal and her team, who enthralled the audience with their live performance at Drama Theatre, Katara Cultural Village on 28 February &amp; on 1 March. A repeat performance was held at the Indian Cultural Centre on 2nd March for the larger Indian community. 
Anuradha Pal, India’s First female professional Tabla and percussion virtuoso, presented an Instrumental Music Ensemble (Jugalbandi), along with her talented team of musicians. Anuradha Pal is an internationally acclaimed accompanist with top Indian classical musicians and an enthusiastic collaborator with Jazz, African, Latin, Flamenco, Crossover Classical, Percussion, Pop, Rock &amp; New-age music. She holds the honour of being the Youngest and first female Indian Musician to perform at two of the most prestigious music festivals in the world – Woodstock Festival (2008) &amp; WOMAD Festival (1999). 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Exhibition: From India to Qatar: A symbiosis of cultures (April 2019)</li>
</ul>

<img alt="oooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ce6f643-f21e-4834-91fc-014a887baf18" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_33.jpg" />

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qasim (FBQ) Museum presented an exquisite exhibition of India-related artefacts at the Museum in Shahaniya, titled ‘From India to Qatar - A Symbiosis of Cultures’, to mark the India-Qatar Year of Culture 2019. The exhibition featured a number of items of historical interest curated by Prof. Mohammed Moin Sadeq and also a special exhibition of miniature paintings curated by Indian artists Ajay and Vinita Sharma. It was inaugurated on 4 April 2019 and remained open until 31 July 2019. Arranged under five main themes - Community, Trade, Arts, Food and Incense – the exhibition took the visitors on a journey exploring the rich and diverse Indian culture, the longstanding historic links between Qatar and India and also the cultural similarities between Qatar and India.

<ul>
	<li>Islamic Calligraphy Exhibition (July-August 2019)</li>
</ul>

<img alt="cccc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af7f044e-df31-41ed-96d9-88580b43c968" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_42.jpg" />

&nbsp;Together with “Radiant Arts”, a platform for Dawoodi Bohra artists, an Islamic Calligraphy Exhibition titled “Multaqa Al-Qulub Wal-Funun: A Gathering of Hearts &amp; Crafts” was organised at Katara Cultural Village.

The Exhibition provided a glimpse of how Arabic calligraphy is preserved and practiced in India. The exhibition also served to present the beauty of India's composite culture, especially those elements which bear an affinity with Qatari culture, and Arab culture in general. Artwork by seven talented artists from the Dawoodi Bohra community was on display at the show. Quintessential Qatari cultural symbols (such as the falcon, oryx, traditional dhow etc.) and landmarks (such as the Museum of Islamic Art and the Doha skyline) were displayed by artists through their works, in addition to themes relating to India. During the event, live calligraphy sessions by the artists of Radiant Arts were also conducted. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Mughal-e-Azam: The play (December 2019)</li>
</ul>

<img alt="kkk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9be07cc-4246-4896-8f68-57b6867a6a30" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_50.jpg" />

The grandeur of Mughal Emperor Akbar’s palace was brought to the audience in Qatar by a galaxy of talented stage artists in the form of a theatre performance “Mughal-E-Azam”. The engaging story and the technical sophistication, coupled with catchy and crisp dialogues and live songs maintaining the sumptuousness and majesty of the original 1960 film, kept the audience spellbound. The Broadway-style musical stage play was enacted by a 100-strong troupe from India, directed by Mr&nbsp;Feroz Abbas Khan.

The performance was a fitting finale to the year-long celebrations of the India-Qatar Year of Culture-2019

Many more events of similar nature and fervour were organised throughout the year by both the countries to bolster their relationship.

(All images courtesy of Embassy of India, Qatar)

The decision to jointly celebrate the India-Qatar Year of Culture in 2019 was taken during the visit of the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, to Qatar in June 2016.

The decision to jointly celebrate the India-Qatar Year of Culture in 2019 was taken during the visit of the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, to Qatar in June 2016. This understanding was reflected in the Joint Statement issued at that time. The Embassy of India, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has since been organising a 'Festival of India' in Qatar, to showcase the deep cultural roots and people-to-people links between India and Qatar. Several events have already been organised as part of this Festival since the beginning of the year and more are to come in the next few months. Here are a few highlights of the festival scattered across a year: Indian fashion designers at Shop Qatar design district (January 2019) Five well-known Indian fashion designers - Tarun Tahiliani, Raghavendra Rathore, Wendell Rodricks, Namrata Joshipura and Raw Mango - participated in the displays organised at Shop Qatar Design District in January 2019, as part of the festivities organised under Qatar Shopping Festival 2019. The exquisite designs exhibited by these designers helped showcase the depth of talent and the diversity available in the Indian fashion design industry, in addition to the cultural affinities between India and the Arab world, as shown by the popularity of Indian designs in this part of the world. Concert by Bollywood singer Arijit Singh (January 2019) Bollywood singing sensation Arijit Singh held a high profile concert and enthralled a large audience of nearly 20,000 with soulful performance on 18th January 2019 at Lusail Sports Arena. The event featured renditions of a number of his much-admired and award-winning tracks. 'One FM Radio' brought the renowned singer to Doha in association with Shop Qatar 2019, the third edition of Qatar's biggest shopping festival that is part of the Qatar National Tourism Council's strategy to grow and diversify the country's tourism offering. Instrumental Music Ensemble: Jugalbandi (February-March 2019) This event, organised as part of the Festival of India in Qatar and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, featured Tabla virtuoso & percussionist Pandita Anuradha Pal and her team, who enthralled the audience with their live performance at Drama Theatre, Katara Cultural Village on 28 February & on 1 March. A repeat performance was held at the Indian Cultural Centre on 2nd March for the larger Indian community. Anuradha Pal, India’s First female professional Tabla and percussion virtuoso, presented an Instrumental Music Ensemble (Jugalbandi), along with her talented team of musicians. Anuradha Pal is an internationally acclaimed accompanist with top Indian classical musicians and an enthusiastic collaborator with Jazz, African, Latin, Flamenco, Crossover Classical, Percussion, Pop, Rock & New-age music. She holds the honour of being the Youngest and first female Indian Musician to perform at two of the most prestigious music festivals in the world – Woodstock Festival (2008) & WOMAD Festival (1999). Exhibition: From India to Qatar: A symbiosis of cultures (April 2019) Sheikh Faisal Bin Qasim (FBQ) Museum presented an exquisite exhibition of India-related artefacts at the Museum in Shahaniya, titled ‘From India to Qatar - A Symbiosis of Cultures’, to mark the India-Qatar Year of Culture 2019. The exhibition featured a number of items of historical interest curated by Prof. Mohammed Moin Sadeq and also a special exhibition of miniature paintings curated by Indian artists Ajay and Vinita Sharma. It was inaugurated on 4 April 2019 and remained open until 31 July 2019. Arranged under five main themes - Community, Trade, Arts, Food and Incense – the exhibition took the visitors on a journey exploring the rich and diverse Indian culture, the longstanding historic links between Qatar and India and also the cultural similarities between Qatar and India. Islamic Calligraphy Exhibition (July-August 2019) Together with “Radiant Arts”, a platform for Dawoodi Bohra artists, an Islamic Calligraphy Exhibition titled “Multaqa Al-Qulub Wal-Funun: A Gathering of Hearts & Crafts” was organised at Katara Cultural Village. The Exhibition provided a glimpse of how Arabic calligraphy is preserved and practiced in India. The exhibition also served to present the beauty of India's composite culture, especially those elements which bear an affinity with Qatari culture, and Arab culture in general. Artwork by seven talented artists from the Dawoodi Bohra community was on display at the show. Quintessential Qatari cultural symbols (such as the falcon, oryx, traditional dhow etc.) and landmarks (such as the Museum of Islamic Art and the Doha skyline) were displayed by artists through their works, in addition to themes relating to India. During the event, live calligraphy sessions by the artists of Radiant Arts were also conducted. Mughal-e-Azam: The play (December 2019) The grandeur of Mughal Emperor Akbar’s palace was brought to the audience in Qatar by a galaxy of talented stage artists in the form of a theatre performance “Mughal-E-Azam”. The engaging story and the technical sophistication, coupled with catchy and crisp dialogues and live songs maintaining the sumptuousness and majesty of the original 1960 film, kept the audience spellbound. The Broadway-style musical stage play was enacted by a 100-strong troupe from India, directed by Mr Feroz Abbas Khan. The performance was a fitting finale to the year-long celebrations of the India-Qatar Year of Culture-2019 Many more events of similar nature and fervour were organised throughout the year by both the countries to bolster their relationship. (All images courtesy of Embassy of India, Qatar)

India-Qatar bolster relationship with events as part of 'Year of Culture' series

The Red Devils' have decided not to travel to Qatar amidst heightened tensions after Irani General Qassem Soleimani was killed in drone strikes executed by the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United -&nbsp;Guardiola</a> 
 
The players are also asked not to go to the Middle East for vacationing during the days off at the start of next month before the beginning of the training camp.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qatari-emir-in-iran-de-escalation-is-the-only-solution-273833">Qatari emir in Iran: 'De-escalation is the only solution'</a> 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../fa-cup-gunners-push-through-leeds-272669">Manchester United</a> boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “I am going to give them a few days off. I don’t know where they will all scatter around but we will stay in Europe. 
 
“If there is one thing that worries me it’s not on the football pitch, there are other things that worry me more than football. 
 
Solskjaer plans to set the training camp in Europe that has a more settled climate than what Manchester has to offer. 
 
“We were looking at the Middle East but that is not going to happen.” 
 
This is a big blow for Qatar which is the venue for the World Cup in 2022. The fear of countries backing out to play the World Cup if the tensions remain scares the Arabs. The United States have already dumped their plans to train in Qatar. 
 
Manchester United were looking forward to being in Qatar because of the weather and the highly-rated Aspire sports arena. 
 
Stadiums in Qatar which will host the World Cup are designed based on its respective cities tradition. 
 
Aspire sports Arena is the largest indoor multi-purpose dome in Qatar. 
 
Qatar has already been surrounded by a lot of controversies regarding the hosting of the World Cup.

The Red Devils' have decided not to travel to Qatar amidst heightened tensions after Irani General Qassem Soleimani was killed in drone strikes executed by the United States.

The Red Devils' have decided not to travel to Qatar amidst heightened tensions after Irani General Qassem Soleimani was killed in drone strikes executed by the United States. Also read: FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United - Guardiola The players are also asked not to go to the Middle East for vacationing during the days off at the start of next month before the beginning of the training camp. Also read: Qatari emir in Iran: 'De-escalation is the only solution' Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “I am going to give them a few days off. I don’t know where they will all scatter around but we will stay in Europe. “If there is one thing that worries me it’s not on the football pitch, there are other things that worry me more than football. Solskjaer plans to set the training camp in Europe that has a more settled climate than what Manchester has to offer. “We were looking at the Middle East but that is not going to happen.” This is a big blow for Qatar which is the venue for the World Cup in 2022. The fear of countries backing out to play the World Cup if the tensions remain scares the Arabs. The United States have already dumped their plans to train in Qatar. Manchester United were looking forward to being in Qatar because of the weather and the highly-rated Aspire sports arena. Stadiums in Qatar which will host the World Cup are designed based on its respective cities tradition. Aspire sports Arena is the largest indoor multi-purpose dome in Qatar. Qatar has already been surrounded by a lot of controversies regarding the hosting of the World Cup.

Manchester United scrap plans to set training camps in Middle East amid tensions

Iran is on a major diplomatic mission to garner support against the United States of America in West Asia. For Tehran, the Ultimate aim is to expel all US troops from the region. Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani held a meeting with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Tehran. All three leaders agreed that de-escalation and dialogue are the only way to solve the current crisis. #WION #WIONNews #Rouhani #Iran #US #Tehran

WION Dispatch: Iran's diplomatic outreach to allies, Pak PM Qureshi meets Prez Rouhani

Qatar is one of a few countries in the region that maintains a close relationship with Washington and Tehran.

Qatari emir in Iran: 'De-escalation is the only solution'

The men's US national team has called off plans to go to&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;for a winter&nbsp;training&nbsp;camp&nbsp;following&nbsp;unrest&nbsp;in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-row-us-senate-in-stalemate-over-how-to-proceed-272003">Middle East</a>,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;said on Friday.

"Due to the developing situation in the region,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;has decided to postpone travelling to&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;for the Men's National Team's scheduled January&nbsp;training&nbsp;camp,"&nbsp;US&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;said in a short statement.

Iran's clerical and military rulers have threatened revenge for an American air strike at Baghdad airport on Friday that killed Qassem Soleimani, commander of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards Quds&nbsp;Force and architect of its growing military influence in the Middle East.

US coach Gregg Berhalter had called up 25 players for the 20-day sojourn scheduled to begin on January&nbsp;5.

His side were to play closed door games at Doha's Aspire Academy before heading home to face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-magazine-271883">Costa Rica</a> in Carson, California&nbsp;on February&nbsp;1.

That game will go ahead as planned,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;said, and they are now working on an alternative schedule to prepare for that fixture.

"We are working with the&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;Football Association to find an opportunity in the near future for our team to experience&nbsp;Qatar's world-class facilities and hospitality,"&nbsp;US&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Qatar</a>&nbsp;will host the World Cup in 2022 and the US kicks off its qualifying&nbsp;campaign in September. The US is desperate to qualify for the&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;tournament&nbsp;after&nbsp;surprisingly missing out last time in Russia.

The men's US national team has called off plans to go to Qatar for a winter training camp following unrest in the Middle East, US Soccer said on Friday. "Due to the developing situation in the region, US Soccer has decided to postpone travelling to Qatar for the Men's National Team's scheduled January training camp," US Soccer said in a short statement.

The men's US national team has called off plans to go to Qatar for a winter training camp following unrest in the Middle East, US Soccer said on Friday. "Due to the developing situation in the region, US Soccer has decided to postpone travelling to Qatar for the Men's National Team's scheduled January training camp," US Soccer said in a short statement. Iran's clerical and military rulers have threatened revenge for an American air strike at Baghdad airport on Friday that killed Qassem Soleimani, commander of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards Quds Force and architect of its growing military influence in the Middle East. US coach Gregg Berhalter had called up 25 players for the 20-day sojourn scheduled to begin on January 5. His side were to play closed door games at Doha's Aspire Academy before heading home to face Costa Rica in Carson, California on February 1. That game will go ahead as planned, US Soccer said, and they are now working on an alternative schedule to prepare for that fixture. "We are working with the Qatar Football Association to find an opportunity in the near future for our team to experience Qatar's world-class facilities and hospitality," US Soccer added. Qatar will host the World Cup in 2022 and the US kicks off its qualifying campaign in September. The US is desperate to qualify for the Qatar tournament after surprisingly missing out last time in Russia.

Following an unrest in Middle East, US Soccer team cancels training camp in Qatar

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-manager-klopp-extends-contract-to-2024-268150">Jurgen Klopp</a> is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-geroginio-wijnaldum-to-miss-club-world-cup-semi-final-268882">Club World Cup</a> final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday.

Firmino came off the bench to turn in a cross from fellow substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 91st minute at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha after Naby Keita's early opener for a weakened Liverpool side had swiftly been cancelled out by Argentine striker Rogelio Funes Mori.

Having taken time out from their seemingly relentless march towards the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">Premier League</a> title to travel to Qatar, Liverpool will be relieved at coming through this test, and they remain on course to win this competition for the first time.

However, they must now beat a Flamengo side who have won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian title in the last month under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, and who will have had an extra day to prepare for the final after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal 3-1 on Tuesday.

"Tough game, really tough game," said Klopp when asked about the prospect of facing Flamengo in what will be a repeat of the 1981 Intercontinental Cup final, when a Brazilian team captained by Zico beat Bob Paisley's European Cup holders 3-0 in Tokyo.

"Flamengo's season is over, they are here with a full squad, but we just have to recover as quickly as possible and then make ourselves ready."

He will hope to have Virgil van Dijk back fit for the final after the inspirational Dutch centre-back sat out the Monterrey game due to illness, leaving skipper Jordan Henderson to partner Joe Gomez in defence.

"It was an easy decision because he couldn't train yesterday - he was on the pitch for a couple of minutes until the media left, and then unfortunately he had to leave as well," Klopp said about Van Dijk, who has played in every Premier League and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Champions League</a> game this season. "We will see how quick he can recover."

'Only possible the hard way'&nbsp;

In addition, Klopp chose to leave Sadio Mane on the bench at kick-off along with Firmino and Alexander-Arnold, instead of handing starts to the likes of Adam Lallana, Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi.

"It was only possible the hard way," said Klopp of the way in which his side won, with Firmino's late goal coming after goalkeeper Alisson made a string of key saves to stop Monterrey from going in front.

"We had problems before the game, we knew we would have some problems in the game, but I really think the boys did exceptionally well."

At such a busy stage in the season, Klopp also admitted his relief when the winning goal went in, saying: "I was actually afraid of extra time to be honest so I was more than happy when Bobby scored that goal."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Liverpool</a> got off to a flying start and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 12th minute.

Salah, spurred on by the backing of adoring fans in an official attendance of over 45,000, produced a stunning pass to release Keita, the midfielder running into the box and lashing a first-time shot past goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero.

However, Monterrey's response was swift, as the CONCACAF Champions League winners drew level within two minutes when Funes Mori -- the brother of former Everton defender Ramiro - converted the rebound after Alisson saved from Jesus Gallardo.

The Mexicans grew in confidence after that, with captain Dorlan Pabon, the Colombian international, testing Alisson before the interval and again from a free-kick after the break.

Alisson also saved well from Funes Mori before Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Firmino all entered the fray in the closing stages.&nbsp;

Clearly determined to avoid a draining extra half-hour, Klopp's game plan paid off as Firmino pounced in the 91st minute.

"The team played really well and gave everything," said Monterrey coach Antonio Mohamed.&nbsp;

"Overall I thought we had the clearest chances and their goalkeeper made four or five big saves. It would have been fairer had the game gone to extra time."&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the Club World Cup final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the Club World Cup final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday. Firmino came off the bench to turn in a cross from fellow substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 91st minute at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha after Naby Keita's early opener for a weakened Liverpool side had swiftly been cancelled out by Argentine striker Rogelio Funes Mori. Having taken time out from their seemingly relentless march towards the Premier League title to travel to Qatar, Liverpool will be relieved at coming through this test, and they remain on course to win this competition for the first time. However, they must now beat a Flamengo side who have won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian title in the last month under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, and who will have had an extra day to prepare for the final after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal 3-1 on Tuesday. "Tough game, really tough game," said Klopp when asked about the prospect of facing Flamengo in what will be a repeat of the 1981 Intercontinental Cup final, when a Brazilian team captained by Zico beat Bob Paisley's European Cup holders 3-0 in Tokyo. "Flamengo's season is over, they are here with a full squad, but we just have to recover as quickly as possible and then make ourselves ready." He will hope to have Virgil van Dijk back fit for the final after the inspirational Dutch centre-back sat out the Monterrey game due to illness, leaving skipper Jordan Henderson to partner Joe Gomez in defence. "It was an easy decision because he couldn't train yesterday - he was on the pitch for a couple of minutes until the media left, and then unfortunately he had to leave as well," Klopp said about Van Dijk, who has played in every Premier League and Champions League game this season. "We will see how quick he can recover." 'Only possible the hard way' In addition, Klopp chose to leave Sadio Mane on the bench at kick-off along with Firmino and Alexander-Arnold, instead of handing starts to the likes of Adam Lallana, Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi. "It was only possible the hard way," said Klopp of the way in which his side won, with Firmino's late goal coming after goalkeeper Alisson made a string of key saves to stop Monterrey from going in front. "We had problems before the game, we knew we would have some problems in the game, but I really think the boys did exceptionally well." At such a busy stage in the season, Klopp also admitted his relief when the winning goal went in, saying: "I was actually afraid of extra time to be honest so I was more than happy when Bobby scored that goal." Liverpool got off to a flying start and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 12th minute. Salah, spurred on by the backing of adoring fans in an official attendance of over 45,000, produced a stunning pass to release Keita, the midfielder running into the box and lashing a first-time shot past goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero. However, Monterrey's response was swift, as the CONCACAF Champions League winners drew level within two minutes when Funes Mori -- the brother of former Everton defender Ramiro - converted the rebound after Alisson saved from Jesus Gallardo. The Mexicans grew in confidence after that, with captain Dorlan Pabon, the Colombian international, testing Alisson before the interval and again from a free-kick after the break. Alisson also saved well from Funes Mori before Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Firmino all entered the fray in the closing stages. Clearly determined to avoid a draining extra half-hour, Klopp's game plan paid off as Firmino pounced in the 91st minute. "The team played really well and gave everything," said Monterrey coach Antonio Mohamed. "Overall I thought we had the clearest chances and their goalkeeper made four or five big saves. It would have been fairer had the game gone to extra time."

Liverpool set sights on Flamengo as Firmino takes Reds into Club World Cup final

World Cup 2022 host Qatar has given the clearest indication yet that LGBT fans will be welcome, engaging with gay supporters as it hosts the Club World Cup -- despite criminalising homosexuality.

Organisers of the 2022 soccer spectacle travelled to Britain in recent months to meet Liverpool fan clubs including the side's gay supporters' group, individuals briefed on the meeting have said.

Paul Amann, the founder of Liverpool's LGBT supporters' club Kop Outs, then undertook a fact-finding mission to Doha along with his husband in November at the invitation of the World Cup organisers.

"I'm very satisfied that their approach is to provide an 'everyone is welcome' ethos that does include respect, albeit through privacy," he told AFP. "I'm not sure if rainbow flags generally will ever be accepted 'in-country', but maybe in stadia."

Amman said he felt "paranoia is not needed as people will not pry into your personal business".

"There was clearly some apprehension, indeed my husband said on the eve of flying that he wished he had not agreed to go," the 50-year-old council worker wrote in a report for Kop Outs that he shared with AFP.

'Being gay is haram'

The Kop Outs boast 150 full members and thousands of followers on social media. It is unclear how many LGBT fans from Liverpool and the other six teams participating in the Club Cup will make the journey to the Gulf for the tournament.

Club chief executive Peter Moore said in November that Liverpool had "received a number of assurances" on the issue from Qatari authorities.

There are no openly gay or bisexual players in the English men's Premier League, but major clubs have implemented zero-tolerance policies for homophobia and embraced the "rainbow laces" campaign against discrimination.

Openly LGBT players are well represented in the English women's game however, with former Lionesses captain, the defender Casey Stoney, the best known.

The chief executive of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Nasser al-Khater said in September that "any fan, of any gender, (sexual) orientation, religion, race (should) rest assured that Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world — and they'll all be welcome here".

However he stressed that "public displays of affection are frowned upon, it's not part of our culture -- but that goes across the board to everybody".

Amann said that "if people basically observe the no PDA advice, then I can't see them being necessarily identifiable".

Though there are no openly gay venues in Doha, a handful of bars are known to be more gay-friendly and attract a loyal clientele of airline staff, hospitality workers and other expatriates.

Web users do not face restrictions accessing gay dating apps like Grindr in Qatar, unlike other Gulf countries, although users rarely display identifiable pictures.

"We are living in a society where gay people are not recognised yet. Being gay is haram to their religion," said a gay barman from the Philippines living in the conservative Muslim country who spoke on condition of anonymity.

"I think Qatar is not ready for it yet."

He shared a commonly held fear that police monitor gay apps and periodically deport homosexuals -- although there is limited evidence for this.

During a recent visit by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, three independent experts did, however, warn that at least one transgender person had been detained "until they changed their behaviour".

The experts, who are independent of the UN, also reported the detention of individuals because of crimes linked to their sexuality.

"No one should be detained because of who they love," said group member Elina Steinerte, a Latvian human rights expert.

'Police yourself'

A gay choreographer visiting Qatar from South Africa described the country as "challenging".

"The hardest thing is not being able to show any public displays of affection," said the man who also declined to be named.

"You don't quite realise how difficult it is to police yourself until you have to."

During the last World Cup in Russia, international anti-discrimination network FARE opened a match-screening area for gay and ethnic minority football fans in Moscow.

The LGBT-friendly venue opened despite queer activism being severely restricted in Russia under a 2013 "gay propaganda" law forbidding the promotion of "non-traditional sexual relationships" to minors.

Neither FIFA nor the Qatari Supreme Committee organisers have so far publicised any special measures for gay fans ahead of the World Cup.

Pavel Klymenko of FARE said, "we do have in mind something similar (for 2022) but need to see what is possible".

"Qataris are good at engaging with people, assuring them all is fine — like with the Liverpool LGBT group. But in reality, the level of tolerance for these issues might be way lower than in Russia." 
&nbsp;

World Cup 2022 host Qatar has given the clearest indication yet that LGBT fans will be welcome, engaging with gay supporters as it hosts the Club World Cup -- despite criminalising homosexuality.

World Cup 2022 host Qatar has given the clearest indication yet that LGBT fans will be welcome, engaging with gay supporters as it hosts the Club World Cup -- despite criminalising homosexuality. Organisers of the 2022 soccer spectacle travelled to Britain in recent months to meet Liverpool fan clubs including the side's gay supporters' group, individuals briefed on the meeting have said. Paul Amann, the founder of Liverpool's LGBT supporters' club Kop Outs, then undertook a fact-finding mission to Doha along with his husband in November at the invitation of the World Cup organisers. "I'm very satisfied that their approach is to provide an 'everyone is welcome' ethos that does include respect, albeit through privacy," he told AFP. "I'm not sure if rainbow flags generally will ever be accepted 'in-country', but maybe in stadia." Amman said he felt "paranoia is not needed as people will not pry into your personal business". "There was clearly some apprehension, indeed my husband said on the eve of flying that he wished he had not agreed to go," the 50-year-old council worker wrote in a report for Kop Outs that he shared with AFP. 'Being gay is haram' The Kop Outs boast 150 full members and thousands of followers on social media. It is unclear how many LGBT fans from Liverpool and the other six teams participating in the Club Cup will make the journey to the Gulf for the tournament. Club chief executive Peter Moore said in November that Liverpool had "received a number of assurances" on the issue from Qatari authorities. There are no openly gay or bisexual players in the English men's Premier League, but major clubs have implemented zero-tolerance policies for homophobia and embraced the "rainbow laces" campaign against discrimination. Openly LGBT players are well represented in the English women's game however, with former Lionesses captain, the defender Casey Stoney, the best known. The chief executive of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Nasser al-Khater said in September that "any fan, of any gender, (sexual) orientation, religion, race (should) rest assured that Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world — and they'll all be welcome here". However he stressed that "public displays of affection are frowned upon, it's not part of our culture -- but that goes across the board to everybody". Amann said that "if people basically observe the no PDA advice, then I can't see them being necessarily identifiable". Though there are no openly gay venues in Doha, a handful of bars are known to be more gay-friendly and attract a loyal clientele of airline staff, hospitality workers and other expatriates. Web users do not face restrictions accessing gay dating apps like Grindr in Qatar, unlike other Gulf countries, although users rarely display identifiable pictures. "We are living in a society where gay people are not recognised yet. Being gay is haram to their religion," said a gay barman from the Philippines living in the conservative Muslim country who spoke on condition of anonymity. "I think Qatar is not ready for it yet." He shared a commonly held fear that police monitor gay apps and periodically deport homosexuals -- although there is limited evidence for this. During a recent visit by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, three independent experts did, however, warn that at least one transgender person had been detained "until they changed their behaviour". The experts, who are independent of the UN, also reported the detention of individuals because of crimes linked to their sexuality. "No one should be detained because of who they love," said group member Elina Steinerte, a Latvian human rights expert. 'Police yourself' A gay choreographer visiting Qatar from South Africa described the country as "challenging". "The hardest thing is not being able to show any public displays of affection," said the man who also declined to be named. "You don't quite realise how difficult it is to police yourself until you have to." During the last World Cup in Russia, international anti-discrimination network FARE opened a match-screening area for gay and ethnic minority football fans in Moscow. The LGBT-friendly venue opened despite queer activism being severely restricted in Russia under a 2013 "gay propaganda" law forbidding the promotion of "non-traditional sexual relationships" to minors. Neither FIFA nor the Qatari Supreme Committee organisers have so far publicised any special measures for gay fans ahead of the World Cup. Pavel Klymenko of FARE said, "we do have in mind something similar (for 2022) but need to see what is possible". "Qataris are good at engaging with people, assuring them all is fine — like with the Liverpool LGBT group. But in reality, the level of tolerance for these issues might be way lower than in Russia."

World Cup 2022: Qatar opens its doors to gay football fans

Qatar's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will not attend the Gulf summit in Riyadh, state media reported Tuesday, dampening hopes of reconciliation between Doha and a Saudi-led bloc.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut all diplomatic and transport ties with Qatar in June 2017 over allegations it backs radical Islamists and seeks closer ties with Saudi arch-rival Tehran.

Qatar vehemently denies the allegations.

The emir named Prime Minister Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani to lead the Qatari delegation to Tuesday's summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the official QNA news agency said.&nbsp;

Signs of a thaw

Hopes of reconciliation were high after signs emerged of a thaw between Qatar and its former allies despite Doha's refusal to heed demands put forward by the boycotting countries.

Following Saudi King Salman's invitation to the emir, Qatar's foreign minister said there had been "some progress" in talks with Riyadh.

In a last-minute move last month, the three countries sent teams to a regional football tournament hosted by Qatar, leading to speculation of an imminent diplomatic breakthrough.

Some observers had said that the summit could pave the way for a "reconciliation conference".&nbsp;

Others remained sceptical, saying the king was only following protocol and had invited the Qatari leader to last year's summit as well.&nbsp;

The Qatari emir last year spurned that invitation and sent a representative instead, as he had to other summit since the crisis erupted in 2017.

Even though the emir will not attend the summit, negotiations to end the impasse are expected to continue, analysts say.

"Ending the Gulf rift is an incremental process of engagement and dialogue rather than something resolvable at a single summit meeting alone," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at Rice University's Baker Institute in the United States.

Families divided

The Riyadh-led bloc has repeatedly said the crisis will not end until Qatar accepts its list of 13 demands, including that it shut down Al Jazeera, downgrade ties with Iran and close a Turkish military base in its territory. Doha has so far refused.

Qatar's prime minister attended a series of talks in Saudi Arabia in May, one of the first high-level contacts of the two-year boycott.

But even before the Saudi-led blockade, relations had been rocky, in part because of Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera's critical coverage of the region's affairs and Doha's support for the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011.

The rift has seen the two sides trade barbs on everything from access to the Muslim holy city of Mecca to alleged Twitter hacking.

It has also seen families divided and Qatari businesses face increased costs as well as complicated regional travel and diplomacy.

Qatar's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will not attend the Gulf summit in Riyadh, state media reported Tuesday, dampening hopes of reconciliation between Doha and a Saudi-led bloc.

Qatar's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will not attend the Gulf summit in Riyadh, state media reported Tuesday, dampening hopes of reconciliation between Doha and a Saudi-led bloc. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut all diplomatic and transport ties with Qatar in June 2017 over allegations it backs radical Islamists and seeks closer ties with Saudi arch-rival Tehran. Qatar vehemently denies the allegations. The emir named Prime Minister Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani to lead the Qatari delegation to Tuesday's summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the official QNA news agency said. Signs of a thaw Hopes of reconciliation were high after signs emerged of a thaw between Qatar and its former allies despite Doha's refusal to heed demands put forward by the boycotting countries. Following Saudi King Salman's invitation to the emir, Qatar's foreign minister said there had been "some progress" in talks with Riyadh. In a last-minute move last month, the three countries sent teams to a regional football tournament hosted by Qatar, leading to speculation of an imminent diplomatic breakthrough. Some observers had said that the summit could pave the way for a "reconciliation conference". Others remained sceptical, saying the king was only following protocol and had invited the Qatari leader to last year's summit as well. The Qatari emir last year spurned that invitation and sent a representative instead, as he had to other summit since the crisis erupted in 2017. Even though the emir will not attend the summit, negotiations to end the impasse are expected to continue, analysts say. "Ending the Gulf rift is an incremental process of engagement and dialogue rather than something resolvable at a single summit meeting alone," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at Rice University's Baker Institute in the United States. Families divided The Riyadh-led bloc has repeatedly said the crisis will not end until Qatar accepts its list of 13 demands, including that it shut down Al Jazeera, downgrade ties with Iran and close a Turkish military base in its territory. Doha has so far refused. Qatar's prime minister attended a series of talks in Saudi Arabia in May, one of the first high-level contacts of the two-year boycott. But even before the Saudi-led blockade, relations had been rocky, in part because of Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera's critical coverage of the region's affairs and Doha's support for the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011. The rift has seen the two sides trade barbs on everything from access to the Muslim holy city of Mecca to alleged Twitter hacking. It has also seen families divided and Qatari businesses face increased costs as well as complicated regional travel and diplomacy.

Qatar emir to skip Riyadh summit dampening thaw hopes

Taliban insurgents released two Western hostages - Kevin King from the United States and Timothy Weeks from Australia - on Tuesday in a prisoner exchange deal with the Afghan government, two Afghan officials said. Three Taliban commanders who are part of a prisoner swap for two Western hostages held by the militant group have landed in Qatar, three Taliban sources familiar with the deal said on Tuesday.

Sources: Taliban frees U.S. & Australian hostages in a prisoner swap, Taliban Comdr. part of swap

Three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-police-chief-along-with-3-bodyguard-killed-in-taliban-ambush-262472">Taliban</a> commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today.

This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban. The latter have always referred to the Afghan government as an illegitimate puppet regime.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-still-holding-western-hostages-spokesman-262471">hostages held by the Taliban</a> include an American named Kevin King and an Australian named Timothy Weeks. They're both university professors slated to be released today.

"Our three prisoners had been freed on Monday night," said one of the sources, a senior Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the deal.

"Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar", the source added.

This swap came in the aftermath of an announcement on November 12 by President Ashraf Ghani. He had said that Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two Taliban commanders.&nbsp;

An earlier swap was scheduled but was later cancelled as the Taliban abruptly shifted their hostages to a new location as the commanders were unable to land in Qatar.

The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale militant attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

King and Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exchange-of-prisoners-between-taliban-afghan-government-yet-to-take-place-262209">They appeared in a hostage video</a> a year later looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release.

There has been no word from the Afghan government as well as the United States embassy in Kabul.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Three Taliban commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today. This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban.

Three Taliban commanders part of a swap between prisoners for two western hostages have landed in Qatar, Reuters reported today. This swap can be attributed to the efforts made by Afghan government to conduct direct talks with the Taliban. The latter have always referred to the Afghan government as an illegitimate puppet regime. The hostages held by the Taliban include an American named Kevin King and an Australian named Timothy Weeks. They're both university professors slated to be released today. "Our three prisoners had been freed on Monday night," said one of the sources, a senior Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the deal. "Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar", the source added. This swap came in the aftermath of an announcement on November 12 by President Ashraf Ghani. He had said that Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two Taliban commanders. An earlier swap was scheduled but was later cancelled as the Taliban abruptly shifted their hostages to a new location as the commanders were unable to land in Qatar. The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale militant attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan. King and Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors. They appeared in a hostage video a year later looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release. There has been no word from the Afghan government as well as the United States embassy in Kabul. (With inputs from Reuters)

Taliban commanders slated to be swapped for Western hostages arrive in Qatar

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