Tribune News Network
Doha
FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Saturday came down heavily on Europe’s criticism of workers’ rights in Qatar and called for retrospection on how migrants are treated in the continent.
“Working circumstances in Qatar are superior to those of European immigrants,” he said while addressing a press conference at the Qatar National Convention Centre ahead of the World Cup kick-off on Sunday.
Infantino said Qatar welcomed employees from all over the world, while Europe was shutting its doors.
“Europe should stop the criticism and focus on improving its migrants’ conditions (there)… Europe is acting hypocritically when evaluating working conditions around the world. And before instructing others, Europeans should apologize,” he said.
“Qatar provides job opportunities for everyone who comes to it seeking a better life, and their income enables them to assist their families back home.”
As a sovereign nation, Infantino said Qatar does not require recommendations or outside assistance regarding workers' rights.
“If the world is investing in the World Cup in Qatar, this is due to their confidence in FIFA's continuous reform and their confidence in Qatar as well.
“Every decision taken during this edition of World Cup is a joint resolution between Qatar and FIFA.”
Infantino said Qatar has made significant progress in defending workers' rights and turned into a role model for tolerance.
He said Qatar would represent the best version of the World Cup in history.
"I am proud of everyone who contributed to this event."
"Qatar provides job opportunities for everyone who comes to it seeking a better life, and their income enables them to assist their families back home."
