Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe was honored with an invitation to a dinner attended by two of the most influential figures in the world, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
This exclusive gathering took place on Tuesday, February 27, at the Élysée Palace, which serves as the official residence of the French President in Paris, France.
Upon his arrival at the Palace, the 25-year-old forward was welcomed with grandeur, accompanied by a marching band and guards. A red carpet was laid out, symbolizing the occasion's prestigious nature, as Mbappe entered the building.
The Emir of Qatar was in town for his first state visit to France since assuming the throne in 2013.
In addition to Mbappe, PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, a Qatari businessman, also attended the gathering and arrived 10 minutes earlier than the four-time Ligue 1 Player of the Year.
Why is Kylian Mbappe at the prestigious meeting?
The presence of Mbappe at the gathering is likely attributed to the fact that Qatar Sports Investments owns 87.5 percent of Paris Saint-Germain.
Sheikh Tamim reportedly arrived in the country to facilitate negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
This comes as Qatar, acting as a mediating country between Palestine and Israel, plays a crucial role in fostering diplomatic efforts in the region.
Macron arranged a meal on Tuesday in honor of the Emir of Qatar, where Mbappe and Al-Khelaifi were invited.
The gathering is primarily a social event organized by Macron, and some reports suggest that other PSG players may also be present. Neither Mbappe nor Khelaifi will partake in the talks regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict and will only be present for the meal.
Macron's previous plea to Mbappe
Mbappe, who is reportedly destined to join Spanish giants Real Madrid in the upcoming summer, was previously encouraged by Macron to stay in Paris.
In the summer of 2022, the French President took the initiative to personally talk with the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner, urging him to continue his association with the French capital.
"I merely advised him, in a totally informal way, to remain in France. I believe it is my responsibility, as President, to defend the country when asked in an informal and friendly manner," the 46-year-old leader said.
Mbappe himself confirmed the conversations during an interview.
"I never imagined I'm gonna talk with the President about my future, about my future in my career, so it's something crazy, really something crazy. He told me: 'I want you to stay. I don't want you to leave now. You are so important for the country," the French star said.
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