Doha: The Qatar Handball Federation (QHA) has formalized a new cooperation agreement with the Iranian Handball Federation, focusing on administrative and technical fields to advance the sport in both nations.

According to Qatar News Agency, the signing ceremony was attended by key figures including Ahmed Al Shaabi, President of the Qatar Handball Federation, and Alireza Pakdel, President of the Iranian Handball Federation. Also present were members of the Board of Directors from both federations, and Mohammad Ali Shirband, the First Secretary at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Doha.

The agreement is designed to foster collaboration on national teams and competitions, and facilitates the exchange of visits between national teams and club players for friendly matches in various age groups over the next three years-2026, 2027, and 2028. It aims to share technical and administrative expertise to boost the development of handball in both countries.

Additionally, both federations have committed to supporting one another in terms of policies related to international events. The agreement encompasses training initiatives, including joint conferences, seminars, and courses intended to enhance the capabilities of handball coaches and specialists.

Another key component of the agreement is the development of handball referees. It includes the organization of joint conferences, seminars, and courses to elevate the skills of referees and specialists in the sport. Referee exchanges in the national league are also included, with discussions on details handled by the technical staff of the two federations.

Ahmed Al Shaabi emphasized that the agreement is aimed at exchanging administrative and technical expertise in coaching, playing, and refereeing across all age groups. He concluded by noting the agreement’s openness to additional elements that could benefit both Qatar and Iran.