THE whole world is still struggling with the unchecked scourge of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as the virus is spreading like a wildfire across the world. Countries find that their healthcare system huffing and puffing under the heavy weight of the first-of-its-kind pandemic. Several countries are realising that their hospital beds fall too short and essential support equipment like ventilators are hard to come by. Same is the case with essential medical supplies such as face masks, personal protective equipment, sanitizers etc. And of course, complaints are galore, the worst among which is the alleged discrimination against own citizens, mainly seniors and the disabled who are left to fend for themselves.
The case is not much different in the Middle East and our neighbouring countries. For the last few days there were several media reports about some governments discriminating against their migrant labour force. After the governments declared lockdowns and some placed even curfews, the workers were struggling to access food and basic personal hygiene products. Some countries even warned the labour exporting countries to take their people back or face consequences.
In these trying times also the State of Qatar stands tall and apart. When the leadership of this country says that the migrant workers are their valuable guests it means it. Workers are treated as guests, providing them with every facility and amenity that are available in the country.
For the last few days several ambassadors expressed their gratitude to the government for the support and care being given to their compatriots. The ambassadors were very vociferous in thanking Qatar through columns they wrote in The Peninsula newspaper.
Right from the day when some areas of the country were locked down and people were quarantined, the social media platforms were carrying pictures and messages from these people thanking the Government of Qatar for the best treatment and services they were getting. People even posted pictures of the daily food packets they were getting with emotional captions.
On Monday, the Spokesperson of the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management categorically reiterated that there is no discrimination in Qatar, adding that everybody will get equally good treatment even if they don’t possess a health card or valid resident permit. The country has addressed every concern of its expatriates whether it is expired visa, food supply, healthcare, salary payment, job security or access to daily needs.
Yes, there is no doubt that the State of Qatar is leading the world by example as in every situation. The country is ensuring that nobody is left out unprotected in this relentless war against COVID-19 and it is sure that Qatar will win this war.
