By Manal Abdel Fattah
The Embassy of Belgium in Cairo, in cooperation with the Embassies of the Netherlands and Germany, organized a celebration entitled “Women in Football – Let’s Reach Our Goals – Promoting Sport for Peaceful and Inclusive Societies,” on the occasion of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, to celebrate influential leaders in the development of women’s football in Egypt.
In his speech, Ambassador François Cornier de Elsius, Ambassador of Belgium in Cairo, said: “I am pleased to welcome you, along with my colleagues, Ambassador of Germany, Frank Hartmann, and Ambassador of the Netherlands, Pieter Mollema, to my residence to celebrate women in football.”
He added: “On the field, we are fierce competitors, but in terms of promoting women in sports, we are united as one.”
He added: “A few days ago, we celebrated the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. Sport unites individuals and groups, and by promoting a more prominent and clearer role for women in sports, our countries are betting on equality for better societies.”
He continued: “We are very proud to have an audience among our fans that leads the way for women’s football in Egypt. Professional players, coaches, journalists and fans, thank you for being here.”
He said: “With the same energy, the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium are jointly applying to host the next Women’s World Cup in 2027.
Together, we aim to present a World Cup that redefines the level of ambition for the competition itself, and its impact in supporting the development of the women’s game globally.”
He added: Our motto is “opening new horizons”, just like Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.
He continued: “Within a radius of 300 kilometers, you will find ready accommodation for world-class football facilities, easily connected, our countries are easily accessible and well located in the heart of Europe.
The ambassador said: One could argue that we have the ideal weather for football, we have experience in hosting international sporting events, and we have a rich and long history in football.
The idea of football is part of our DNA.
He added: This is also an occasion to celebrate the strong history of football between our federations and the Egyptian Football Association, as well as the Confederation of African Football here in Cairo.
