W/Cup could ease global tension – Russian minister

Moscow - The 2018 World Cup in Russia could serve as a
catalyst for political reconciliation and help ease global
tensions, Russian sports minister Vitaly Mutko said on
Wednesday.
"Hopefully, it will become a kind of a conciliating event, which
will show the world that Russia is an open-hearted, democratic
and hospitable country with a rich history and culture," Mutko
told R-sport agency.
"It will be a great occasion not only for Russia but for the
entire football world," Mutko said.
Relations between Russia and the West have been tense since
the annexation of Crimea in March last year and an ensuing
conflict in Ukraine that has claimed more than 8,000 lives.
There is also bitterness amongst other 2018 candidates over
allegations Russia was awarded the rights to host the World
Cup after a deal with FIFA was apparently agreed in advance.
Also read : Russia to strengthen 2018 World Cup security
Russia's cold war rivals Britain are angry with the 2018 World
Cup going to Russia while the United States are also
uncomfortable with the 2022 World Cup going to Qatar.
Mutko also said Russia was fulfilling its commitments towards
FIFA deadlines on World Cup infrastructure perpetrations
despite the economic crisis.
"We're doing our best to develop our facilities and to urge the
development of football in the country," he said.
"I don't see any really outstanding problems.
"Despite the complicated economic situation we have
managed to keep to our World Cup investment budget. It will
help Russia to fulfil all of its obligations in full."
FIFA has approved 62 of the 64 training bases to be used by
teams' for accommodation and practice during the
tournament, Mutko confirmed.
He also revealed that representatives of certain teams had
already visited some of the bases first presented at the
preliminary draw ceremony earlier this year.
"The representatives of Germany, Netherlands, England, Brazil,
USA, Mexico and some other event favourites have already
visited the training bases this year and gave them a positive
rating," the minister said.
The 2018 World Cup will take place at 12 venues across
Russia betwwen June 14 - July 15 2018.
For the latest on national news, politics, sport, entertainment
and more follow us on Twitter and like our Facebook page.
- AFP

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