UEFA and CAF sign memorandum in Cairo

The relationship between European and African football has taken a significant step forward with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UEFA and its sister governing body in Africa, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF).

UEFA President Michel Platini and the President of CAF, Issa Hayatou, signed the memorandum at a ceremony at CAF's headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday. The two Presidents were accompanied by UEFA's General Secretary Gianni Infantino and Hicham El Amrani, Secretary General of CAF. Members of the CAF Executive Committee were also in attendance.

Valid until 31 July 2016 and open for renewal, the MoU provides for mutual cooperation between the two continental confederations with regard to the development of football in Africa and Europe. Objectives set out are the strengthening of collaboration between the two confederations and the establishment of a framework for exchange and dialogue.

This will be achieved through the sharing of information and experience, as well as joint technical development programmes in various fields such as coaching, refereeing, youth football, women's football, competition organisation, administration, marketing, media and social responsibilities.

"UEFA is very happy to partner CAF to exchange knowledge and share ideas to develop the game," said Mr Platini. "This initiative is a result of a collective decision by the 54 national associations of UEFA, since CAF is a major stakeholder in global football."

"This agreement will benefit the national associations affiliated to CAF and build their capacities in various sectors of football development," said Mr Hayatou. "CAF will be acting as an intermediary between UEFA and the national associations to ensure they get the expected benefits."

CAF was founded in 1957. It governs football in six designated regions of Africa, which correspond to the geographical footballing division of Africa as decided by CAF. Each region comprises a number of national associations affiliated to the confederation. Altogether 54 national football associations are full members of CAF.

UEFA has signed memorandums with other confederations in recent times, as European football's governing body aims to strengthen its relationships within the football family.