Beyond the bags of money, there is also what is called “Rolex diplomacy”. Thus, it is known that gifts are given to every dignitary who comes to Qatar. And the value changes according to the rank. It ranges from the watch to 85,000 euros to the Montblanc pen, passing by large gift vouchers to be used in European shops. This gift practice is almost institutionalized. Some accept, others refuse, and one party accepts by handing them over to the national furniture. Once the gifts, or bundles, are accepted, the authorities know who loves Qatar and its money.
On the other hand, what is surprising is this being caught in the act. If they are known, these practices are usually surrounded by a great “professionalism”, they do not leave traces. There, obviously, there was a flaw in the Qatari strategy. The various elements that appeared in the press, such as the suitcase full of money, show great amateurism.