Geneva: The State of Qatar has emphasized the role of sport as a powerful tool to promote equality and diversity and combat racism and xenophobia, during a session at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

According to Qatar News Agency, the State of Qatar took part on Friday in an interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance, as part of the Council's 62nd session. The State of Qatar was represented by Sheikh Sultan bin Khalid Al-Thani, Second Secretary at its Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva.

In his remarks, Sheikh Sultan stressed that the State of Qatar believes sport serves as a universal language that brings together peoples and cultures, helping to reinforce values of respect, tolerance, and solidarity. He highlighted Qatar's efforts to combat racism and promote social inclusion through sport, citing initiatives such as hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which he said helped foster cultural understanding and challenge stereotypes.

Sheikh Sultan also noted support for FIFA's "No Discrimination" campaign during the tournament, as well as Qatar's annual National Sports Day, held every February to encourage participation in sport and reduce cultural and social barriers among residents.