Date:08/02/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/02/08/stories/2003020804421900.htm

Sport - World Cup

`Smooth security will be provided'

By Our Special Correspondent

Cape Town, Feb, 7. The South African, Zimbabwean and Kenyan police will share work while maintaining law and order during the World Cup at the venues, hotels and also provide protection to VIPs.

Mr. Andre Prius, Head of the Operations of the South African Police Service went out of the way to describe the fine and cordial relationship between the governments of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya. "Our police will go to Zimbabwe and Nairobi and their police will visit South Africa,'' said Mr. Prius.

Speakers at the Newlands that included the South African Sports Minister Mr. Ngonde Balfour, the ICC President Mr. Malcolm Gray, the World Cup Oraganising Committee Executive Director Dr. Ali Bacher, the UCB Chief Mr. Percy Sonn, CEO South African Tourism, Ms. Cheryl Carolus and Director of the opening ceremony Ms. Penny Jones virtually launched the Eighth World Cup saying that it's was great occasion for Africa and the Southern Africa in particular.

Mr. Balfour reiterated South Africa's support for its Zimabwean and Kenyan brothers and said that the World Cup will only further and strengthen their relationships, politically and otherwise.