FIFA prez writes to CM, showers accolades

Kolkata: Congratulating her for successfully hosting the Under-17 Football World Cup, FIFA President Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino wrote to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday assuring assistance for the projects taken up for development of football.

It may be mentioned that he had earlier appreciated the role of the Mamata Banerjee-government for developing an international standard infrastructure for the FIFA Under-17 Football World Cup.

FIFA president reached Zurich on Friday and wrote to the Chief Minister.

The letter reads: "The FIFA delegation has now returned to Zurich with a host of unforgettable memories and having made many warm hearted new friendships during our stay in Kolkata for the final matches of the FIFA Under-17 Football World Cup in India and the FIFA Council meeting."

He further stated in the letter that: "Herewith, I would like to congratulate your government on its role in your country's successful hosting of the FIFA Under-17 Football World Cup. I would also like to thank you on behalf of the entire FIFA delegation for affording us such a cordial welcome and warm hospitality as well as the all the moments shared together at the wonderful All India Football Federation (AIFF) gala dinner at the Eco Park and during the exciting final match

between England and Spain last Sunday which I was very pleased and honoured to attain by your side at the Vivekananda Yuva Krirangan in Kolkata. The talks we had were marked by sincere friendship and mutual respect…about

your vision of the important role that football plays in breaking down cultural and social barriers making the game accessible to all."

It may be mentioned the Chief Minister had announced that the state government will be giving 15 acre land at new Town to AIFF to set up a national level football academy. In this connection, FIFA president wrote: "Herewith, I would also like to praise the remarkable work and efforts of the AIFF, who implements new plans for

development of our sport in your country…and the construction of the AIFF National Centre of Excellence which will be realised on the 15 acres of land your government has kindly decided to give AIFF. I would like to thank you for this strong contribution

towards supporting football development and promoting the values of our sport in your country. I can assure you that our stay in your country has given the fresh determination to provide any assistance from FIFA and the international football community that could be helpful in the realization of these development projects."