Zambian republican President Hakiainde Hichilema has urged FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resolve football disputes through dialogue.
Infantino, who arrived in the country yesterday, made a courtesy call on President Hichilema today at the state house. He said he is aware of the wrangles in Zambian football, but his visit is primarily focused on football development activities.
Hichilema thanked Infantino for investing in Zambian football and donating a technical training facility to the country. However, the head of state encouraged FIFA and the Zambian Football Association to prioritize dialogue in conflict resolution.
“Football is a love affair; football is a great unifier,” President Hichilema said. ” It is important that we realize that differences will arise all the time, inside a particular team, in a league, with governments, and with other stakeholders; it is inevitable. The message is that we in this country believe that football should take the lead in dialogue when there are challenges that arise. Because challenges will arise, there is no question about it.“
He continued: “I want to encourage you to continue what you are doing—resolving issues of football at the global level through dialogue around a table like this rather than litigation.”
Infantino also thanked Hichilema and his government for their continued support of the growth of football in the country.
“The responsibility for all of us is to continue investing in the game,” he said. “Thanks for everything you are doing for the national team at the senior level for men and women. You can always do more; obviously, we can always do more.
“We all have to do more and invest in our youths; they are the future. With this in mind, your future is definitely bright. We will now invest in academy training to bring the best coaches and talents…… And make them shine more but scout in all ten provinces to make sure that everyone has a chance and opportunity.”
FIFA president on FAZ impasse
In reaction to the recent impasse between FAZ and its stakeholders, which saw the association’s annual general meeting in April halted due to a court order that prompted FIFA to issue a warning of a possible ban, Infantino urged Zambians to focus on the game rather than boardroom issues.
“We should focus on the game. We’ve challenges and are dealt with by FIFA and the federations,” he said on arrival at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. “We care about uniting the world through football and giving opportunities and hope to young boys and girls in this beautiful country. What is important is that we are here to show every citizen of this beautiful country that we are part of the same winning team.”
“We are here to invest in youths, invest in future opportunities, and what we believe in, that football is a school of life for all of us.”
Meanwhile, Infantino has also handed over an accommodation center built in Chongwe district through FIFA-Foward funds to FAZ.
Statehouse also announced today that the FAZ and the government, through the Ministry of Sports, will sign a memorandum of understanding to provide 80 hectares of land for the construction of football pitches, accommodation facilities, a centre of excellence, and a new FAZ headquarters in Chongwe.
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