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Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President, on Saturday, May 5 outlined his vision for Asian football to the representatives of the six AFC Central Zone countries.
Meeting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, following the draw for the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019, Shaikh Salman congratulated the four nations who had qualified for the Finals and reflected on the great progress they had made.
He said, “The Kyrgyz Republic’s first-ever qualification to the competition is a testimony to their development, and they are also the highest movers in the FIFA ranking this month – up a remarkable 40 places.”
“With Iran the top ranked country in Asia – and also having qualified for the FIFA World Cup in Russia – being joined by the Kyrgyz Republic, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in the UAE next year, we can see the game growing in the region.”
“In addition, the future is bright as demonstrated by Uzbekistan’s win the recent AFC U-23 Championship with a thrilling victory in the final against Vietnam in China.”
The AFC President also congratulated Tajikistan and Afghanistan on their AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaigns and stressed the need for continued unity so that the AFC, through the objectives of the Vision and Mission, can help build on these solid platforms.
Shaikh Salman added, “I have visited Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan in the last few months and have been delighted at the progress not only in terms of performances but also in the level of facilities that are being developed.”
He also promised further assistance and projects by the AFC for the Central Zone countries to develop in all departments, including technical and management areas.
The AFC President added that the constant meetings and dialogue between the Member Associations is essential in maintaining the strength of the Asian football family, providing an opportunity to share ideas and opinions.
