KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Sabah Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah has blasted FIFA for its recent decision to ban Kuwait from participation in international soccer activities. "The decision is utterly unconvincing and unjustifiable. It's an uncalculated punishment that harms the fame of the Kuwaiti sport," the minister told reporters on Monday evening. Sheikh Salman made the comments during a ceremony held by the Public Authority for Sports and Youth (PAYS) to honor the former board members of PAYS. "Given its numerous contributions to FIFA and the international sports, the State of Kuwait doesn't deserve this treatment," he regretted.

In the meantime, Sheikh Salman reaffirmed Kuwait's "unequivocal respect" for the Olympic Charter and the international sports regulations. "The Kuwaiti legislations are more advanced than those of other countries in the region; they are on par with the international standards. "It would have been more proper for FIFA to hold Kuwait in high esteem after His Highness the Amir decreed in 2012 amending the sports legislations to enshrine the independence of the sports institutions. But the FIFA, to the contrary, resorted to threats," he went on.

"The International Olympic Committee issued to threats to Kuwait on July 20 and October 15. We offered detailed explanations regarding the legal and technical aspects of the matter to the honorable IOC deputy chairman and board members, but all to no avail," he recalled. "Out of keenness on participation in overseas sports activity, we keep the door open for further discussions of all sticking points during meetings between the IOC and our Olympic Committee in a responsible way," Sheikh Salman went on. He voiced hope that everybody will work for the interests of Kuwait and refrain from any measures that could have negative impacts on the progress of the sports movement in the country.

"The government remains committed to impartiality regarding the sports institutions and clubs, and will not interfere in the affairs of the Kuwait Football Association in keeping with the local and international regulations. "Nevertheless, the government will continue shouldering its responsibility and offer limitless support to these institutions as usual in order to maintain the good fame of the Kuwaiti sport," he added. Asked on the apology for the country's inability to host the 23rd Gulf Cup, Sheikh Salman blamed the decision on the abrupt FIFA ban, adding that Kuwait was eager for the event and put all its resources at the disposal of the championship but faced formidable hurdles. - KUNA