Solidarity and friendship

The Presidents of UEFA and its African sister confederation CAF, Michel Platini and Issa Hayatou, have hailed the football relationship between Europe and Africa – symbolised by the UEFA-CAF Meridian Project.

Project cornerstone
In their welcome messages ahead of this week's UEFA-CAF Meridian Cup and Conference in Barcelona, the two presidents speak of the solidarity and friendship that is a cornerstone of the project. "It is a unique competition," said Mr Platini of the UEFA-CAF Meridian Cup. "More than any other, it symbolises solidarity and the embracing of other cultures. It is the cup of exchange and sharing, the cup of youth and hope.

Social responsibility
"The Meridian Cup is a bridge between two continents united by a love of football but divided, unfortunately, by differing resources," the UEFA President added. "UEFA currently has the means to pursue its ambitions, means that I believe it should share. As a game, and as the simplest and most beautiful game in the world, football has a social responsibility which it cannot ignore."

Africa's gratitude
Mr Hayatou expressed Africa's gratitude for UEFA's support. "This project has already created significant improvements in Africa for numerous aspects of football and has strengthened the links between our two confederations," he said. "It is therefore with the utmost confidence that we are continuing the collaboration. This is because the UEFA-CAF Meridian project, in addition to what it has already achieved, also enables both our continents to bring their people closer together and to join forces in the fight against racism."

New departure
Between Monday and Thursday, the UEFA-CAF Meridian Cup and Conference will take place in the Catalan capital, heralding a new departure as the partnership celebrates its tenth birthday. The Meridian Project co-operation agreement was concluded by UEFA and CAF in Lisbon on 30 January 1997 to promote the exchange of cultures between European and African football. It also offers young footballers a unique learning experience within the framework of a football festival.

Educational focus
The project has been given a new concept with an additional educational focus, which centres on education in coaching, refereeing, sports medicine and administration and will benefit all of Africa's 53 national associations. The five-day Meridian Conference will focus on the theme Elite Player Development. On the agenda will be lectures, discussion groups and visits to training sessions involving the FC Barcelona youth team. The objective of the conference is to celebrate youth through European and African football.

Two matches
A new dimension has also been added to the UEFA-CAF Meridian Cup. The event - previously staged in tournament form - is to continue under a fresh format comprising two matches between two continental all-star Under-18 teams at the Miniestadi in Barcelona on Tuesday (kick-off 18.30CET) and Thursday (11.00CET). "In the time it takes to play two 90-minute matches, the simplicity of the game will push back borders, erase differences and break down barriers," said Mr Platini. Mr Hayatou added: "This event which we are attending with great pride and interest will be devoted to developing the champions of tomorrow."

Click here to read the Meridian Cup and Conference booklet in English, French and German.