Mandela very keen on TT visit

EX-SOUTH AFRICAN President Nelson Mandela is looking forward with great anticipation to his visit to Trinidad and Tobago. The ex-president is expected here on Thursday as guest of both the Trinidad and Tobago government on the invitation of CONCACAF president Jack Austin Warner. Mandela who will be accompanied by Archbiship Desmond Tutu, will also pay a short visit to sister-island Tobago before leaving to attend the CONCACAF Congress in Grenada on May 2. Warner, a FIFA vice-president yesterday attended the inauguration ceremony of South Africa President Thabo Mbeki for his second term in Pretoria. He was among 4,600 guests including 39 presidents and five prime ministers.

Speaking from Pretoria yesterday, Warner said: “This country (Trinidad and Tobago) can expect an experience of a lifetime when the former great South African leader Nelson Mandela arrives.” He said, “having spoken to Mr Mandela, I can say he is very keen on this trip, apart from his main goal, to promote South Africa’s bid to stage World Cup 2010.” Warner said he assured Mr Mandela: “You will be coming to ‘Rainbow Country’ and can expect a most hearty welcome by the government and by extension the people of Trinidad and Tobago.” He said Mr Mandela paid tribute to Brian Lara on his achievement of the world record 400 not out against England during the fourth Cable & Wireless Test match. The CONCACAF boss said Mr Mandela was well aware of the impact Lara’s feat had on the people of Trinidad and Tobago and by extent the Caribbean.

And Mr Mandela pointed out it was evident sporting achievements could have a massive and positive effect on a country, and he even wished
Trinidad and Tobago footballers well in their quest to qualify for World Cup Germany 2006. Warner said he also had discussions with President Mbeki and Sports Minister Ngconde Balfour which he described as very fruitful. He said: “The President emphasised how important it is for South Africa to host World Cup 2010 and asked for my support in this regard.”President Mbeki also expressed delight to hear every effort is being made to ensure Mr Mandela and Archbishop Tutu’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada is a success. Warner said: “I think our region can learn a lesson from the type of humility shown by President Mbeki and the members of his cabinet as they were all down to earth. He added: “President Mbeki said this will possibly be his last term and wanted to leave a legacy by ensuring South Africa’s World Cup bid was successful.” Warner who is expected back home on Wednesday said his discussions with Minister Balfour touched on measures in which South Africa can assist the West Indies Cricket Board and other areas of our sporting development.