A Qatari contingent will be present as a part of the security apparatus at the much-anticipated Manchester derby.

Qatar’s Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Force will be a part of the security coverage of the English Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Manchester City.

The Qatari forces have been participating in various activities in tandem with local authorities in Manchester in the pre-cursor to the much-awaited Manchester derby on Sunday, the Ministry of Interior said in a post on X.

“This participation comes as part of efforts to exchange expertise and benefit from the capabilities of Qatari security personnel, who have gained extensive experience in securing sports activities and major events,” the post added.

The Manchester Derby is often categorised as one of the most heated footballing fixtures in England, as two neighbouring clubs, also among the most successful football clubs of the Premier League era, face each other.

More than 70,000 people are expected to descend on Old Trafford, Manchester United’s home, for the Sunday clash. That has prompted the Greater Manchester Police to increase its presence in the area, with specialist officers to ensure fan safety and enjoyment, according to the Manchester Evening News.

Supporters of Manchester United, who are currently eight places below their city rivals in the 13th spot, have also planned a ‘sit-in’ protest against the club’s owners after the derby.

Participating in the security coverage of an event of such high profile is an attempt to exchange expertise and deploy Qatari forces’ extensive experience in sporting events, the ministry’s post added.

“The initiative aims to strengthen international cooperation and build on the successive successes achieved by Qatari security forces, which have received wide international acclaim,” the post read.

“It also highlights Qatar’s status as a trusted international security partner and reflects the advancement of Qatari expertise in managing security operations in line with the highest global standards.”