UNWTO: South Africa's World Cup will help wider region
The UN's World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has said that the World Cup in 2010 has the potential not only to develop South Africa's economy and infrastructure, but that of the surrounding region.
The organisation stated that it is preparing a partnership of African countries to ensure that the benefits of the sporting event are as far-reaching as possible, under the World Cup slogan of "Win in Africa with Africa".
Building closer relations and fostering the image of Africa as a "safe and significant" tourist destination will be key to maximising the investment brought to the region by the competition, UNTWO claimed.
Francesco Franigialli, secretary-general "The World Cup constitutes an opportunity that the countries of the region can seize in order to obtain the maximum socio-economic, promotional and cultural benefits."
He added that the image of Africa should be strengthened as a result.
Fans from 32 nationalities will descend upon the region during the duration of the World Cup in 2010, which is one of the world's largest sporting events.
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