In a press statement, he reiterated the GCC members' backing for Qatar against interference in its internal affairs through allegations that would not serve normal relations between both countries due to breach of diplomatic norms and international laws.

Defending Qatar, Al-Hajraf said this Gulf country, however, is going ahead with making accomplishments, speaking highly of its hosting of the World Cup 2922 as a source of pride.

The German minister was quoted as emphasizing in a recent TV remark that the awarding of major sporting events such as the upcoming World Cup should be linked to criteria, "namely, compliance with human rights and principles of sustainability".

Qatar on Friday summoned German Ambassador Claudius Fischbach and demanded clarifications for the minister's remarks.