In a statement received from the PSSI in Jakarta on Saturday (December 23), Thohir, accompanied by his deputy Zainuddin Amali, said he also made the most of his speech at the summit to spotlight Indonesia's success in hosting the U-17 FIFA World Cup 2023.
"Praise be to God, I had the opportunity to participate in the FIFA Football Summit 2023 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. On that occasion, I explained Indonesia's measures for transforming its football as well as the country's success in hosting the U-17 World Cup," Thohir noted in the statement.
He emphasized that PSSI's representation in international meetings is of the essence to bring about progress to Indonesian football, noting that such meetings provide the national association with opportunities to exchange views on football management and problems with other countries.
"The participation of representatives from the PSSI in every international-level meeting is instrumental for advancing Indonesian football. I did exchange views with numerous leaders of football associations that have been successful in organizing quality national teams and running quality leagues," he stated.
He then expressed optimism that by ensuring strong collaboration among relevant parties, Indonesia would succeed in making its national football more competitive at the international arena.
A total of 211 member countries of the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) took part in the summit to hear statements delivered by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and other elites regarding the federation's on-going and future football development projects.
In his opening speech, Infantino remarked that the summit serves as a precious opportunity for international football stakeholders to meet, gather, and build unity while stressing that football is a tool for uniting the world.
He further affirmed that FIFA had been striving to ensure that football is a global and inclusive sport that is enjoyed by every country in the world.
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Translator: Fajar S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Tia Mutiasari
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