By Mohamed Osman
DOHA: The Ambassador of France to Qatar Eric Chevallier, yesterday awarded the French Insignia of Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters to Sheikh Dr Abdullah bin Ali Al Thani, who is Adviser at the Emiri Diwan and earlier held senior positions in Qatar’s important academic institutions.
The award was conferred at a special ceremony held at the official residence of the French ambassador here “in recognition of his outstanding contributions in the field of education,” according to a press release issued by the embassy.
Chevallier said that during Dr Abdulla’s tenure HEC Paris became the first European partner of Qatar Foundation, joining six leading US universities at the Education City; it now also has a campus at Education City.
“I’m extremely honoured to present, on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development Laurent Fabius, and the Minister of Culture and Communication, Fleur Pellerin this very prestigious insignia to my friend, and the friend of France,” Sheikh Dr Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani” said Chevallier in his speech.
The ambassador praised Dr Abdulla for his “innovative leadership in education in Qatar,” noting that his achievements are felt well beyond the borders of Qatar and the Arab world.
“Thanks to the minister Laurent Fabius and Fleur Pellerin for honouring me today with this important French national award. I am deeply honoured and humbled by this recognition from the Government of France, especially as the role of education and culture in our lives is a critical part of what gives life itself its shape and meaning,” said Dr Abdullah speaking at the event.
Under the leadership of the Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and that of Father Emir, Qatar has made significant investment in education and in the fields of art and culture.
Education becomes a passport to a more meaningful life and it is essential in every way to the continued development and progress of Qatar and the region.
This recognition from France has to be shared with many Qataris who have played significant roles over the years in improving education at all levels.
It has been an honour to share this education journey with each of you.
Qatar’s achievement press on each of your shoulders. “I am also grateful to calling from near and far who have travelled the education road with us. We have benefited from their beliefs in the possible and in their willingness to share their talent and experiences. This includes appreciation for the many French men and women who have contributed in many ways to our progress in education and culture.
When I see the progress that Qatar has made in education in the last two decades I am proud that I have been contributed that in some ways,” said Dr Abdullah.
The Order of Arts and Letters, which dates back to 1469, is one of France’s oldest and most significant awards. It is presented to some 20 people worldwide each year
The event was attended by senior Qatari officials, members of the academic and business communities in Doha, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The Peninsula
