Ruler of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has lauded the contribution of Abedi Ayew Pele to football in the gulf state.

The three-time African Footballer of the Year launched his professional career outside Ghana in Qatar, featuring for Al Sadd.

In a discussion with Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, the Emir of Qatar recalled the valuable and memorable contribution of the former Black Stars captain to Qatar football.

Abedi Pele is part of President Mahama’s delegation on his three-day official state visit.

The Qatri ruler and Ghana’s president were discussing the power of sports in a nation’s socio-economic and cultural development.

President Mahama took the opportunity to congratulate the country’s national football team on its recent successes especially winning the 2014 Gulf Cup of Nations.

The country is preparing to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.