FIFA President Gianni Infantino expresses regret on not meeting PM Narendra Modi, praises AIFF

Gianni Infantino expressed regret that he could not meet PM Modi, who graced the opening ceremony on October 6. (Source: Twitter)

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed regret over the fact that he could not meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi during the opening ceremony of the U-17 World Cup. While the FIFA chief praised India for hosting a successful world cup event, he went on to add that he is looking forward to meeting the Indian Prime Minister and exchange ideas surrounding the approach to develop football in India.

Extending his good wishes, Infantino wrote, “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 U-17 World Cup India 2017 and the FIFA Council Meeting. I would like to congratulate your government on its role in your country’s successful hosting of FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017”.

Expressing regret over the fact that he could not attend the opening ceremony and meet PM Modi, Infantino said that he’is looking forward to meeting him in future. “Unfortunately, much to my regret, I was not able to attend the opening ceremony of the competition and to meet you in person in New Delhi, due to other prior commitments,” he said and added, “I am however convinced we will have the opportunity to meet in the future to exchange ideas about the approaches to developing football in your country, as well as our visions on the important role that football plays in breaking down cultural and social barriers, making it a game accessible to everyone.”

Praising the AIFF for its commendable efforts such as the Mission 11 Million during the past few months, he wrote, “I would like to praise the remarkable work and efforts of the AIFF to implement new plans for the development of our sport in your country, such as the construction of AIFF National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata. I would like to reiterate my thanks for your 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 me fresh determination to provide any assistance from FIFA and the international football community that could be helpful in the realisation of these developmental projects.”

Infantino’s words will definitely be a source of encouragement for Indian football as FIFA looks to develop the sport across the country. The talk of developmental projects to be undertaken will surely help to strengthen the infrastructure at the grass root level.