A lot of flexibility has been built into the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2011-2016 for accommodating projects related to the 2022 Football World Cup being hosted by Qatar, General Secretariat for Development Planning Secretary General Dr Ibrahim Ibrahim said yesterday. “We knew about the 2022 bid as we were preparing the strategy, which is a very ambitious one and will pretty much help the World Cup preparations,” he told the media after the launch ceremony of the NDS yesterday. The development of roads, airport, transportation and other sectors are part of Qatar’s expansive growth process and will at the same time support the requirement of hosting the World Cup. GSDP director general HE Sheikh Hamad bin Jabor bin Jassim al-Thani described Football World Cup 2022 as a “golden opportunity for the NDS and Qatar National Vision 2030.” “It will bring about very interesting changes such as discipline and a special focus. At the end of the day, what matters is that all development projects are sustainable. We are looking at what is beyond the hydrocarbons,” he said. Earlier, addressing the NDS launch ceremony, Dr Ibrahim pointed out that there are many achievements to be celebrated in Qatar and they have created new challenges which were not apparent in the previous years. “Decisive and tangible actions are needed to attain the future that Qatar desires,” he said while pointing out the four main pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030, such as human, social, economic, and environmental development and the importance of sustainability. The Qatar National Vision has supported, consolidated and underlined the importance of sustainability for future generations. Judicious exploitation of the hydrocarbon resources and diversification of the economy are among the main factors for a sustainable future. “We have to take a holistic view of Qatar National Vision 2030 and work in a consolidated manner. All institutions and agencies have to co-operate and co-ordinate,” he said. The NDS gives a new framework for building on the heritage already achieved and to ensure sustainable development. There are specific roles to be played by various agencies. There is a new methodology for implementation. “The launch of the National Development Strategy should make us committed to the implementation of the phase of Qatar National Vision 2030 in order to build a modern and affluent State,” Dr Ibrahim added. Earlier, while thanking Dr Ibrahim for his efforts, the Heir Apparent HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani revealed that Dr Ibrahim has asked for permission to retire after Qatar achieves the NDS. “I told him that it is something to be decided by HH the Emir himself,” HH Sheikh Tamim added while lauding again Dr Ibrahim and all concerned at the General Secretariat for Development Planning. Qatar National Vision 2030, launched in October 2008, aims to transform Qatar into an advanced country, sustaining its development and providing a high standard of living for all its citizens – for generations to come. It foresees a vibrant and prosperous Qatar with economic and social justice for all. It envisages all Qataris working together in pursuing these aspirations, with strong Islamic and family values guiding their collective energies.

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