Handling of the Commencement of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

June 1, 2010
Japanese

The 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa will be held from June 11 (Fri) to July 11 (Sun) in the Republic of South Africa. During this period, a large number of Japanese citizens are expected to visit the region including athletes, executives, journalists, and tourists.
In order to handle the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa in the best way possible, including safety measures for Japanese citizens, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a meeting to launch the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Liaison Bureau on June 1 (Tue) with Mr. Mitoji Yabunaka, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, as bureau head. The bureau will act as a stage for reports and conferences by top ministry officials. This established meeting was for sharing the confirmation of relevant information and the emergency contact structure. Future meetings will also be held when the need arises.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been holding explanatory meetings for travel agencies and providing information for travel abroad during the holding of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa so that Japanese citizens are able to visit the region and enjoy the event in a safe and smooth manner. The ministry has launched the FIFA World Cup Special Site through the Embassy of Japan in South Africa's website (http://www.za.emb-japan.go.jp/jp/worldCup/worldCupLogo.html) and Info for Japanese Travelers Abroad website where relevant information including safety measures are provided.

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