FIFA - Upbeat Blatter thanks Mbeki for support
14 Sep 2008 00:00
The talks between Mr Blatter, and Mr Mbeki were held in a warm and cordial atmosphere and were centred on the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the ongoing preparations for FIFA's flagship competition and next year's FIFA Confederations Cup. The FIFA President was accompanied by FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke, as well the SALOC CEO Danny Jordaan. The South African government delegation included Minister in the office of the President Essop Pahad.
At the ensuing media briefing FIFA President Blatter acknowledged the significant contributions and support of President Mbeki and his government since their nation was awarded the 2010 FIFA World Cup in May 2004. 'My primary goal of my visit is to reassure the entire country of FIFA's 100% commitment, confidence and trust in this big and proud country to organise the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This event is South Africa's biggest chance show that as a united nation they can bring the 2010 FIFA World Cup to life', said Blatter, who also personally thanked President Mbeki and his government for their tremendous support, saying that without such a commitment, it would not be possible to stage a successful FIFA Confederations Cup in 2009 and FIFA World Cup in 2010.
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