Algerian fans will be safe in Brazil, says ambassador
Brazil’s ambassador to Algeria Sunday said the national team’s fans will be safe in his country provided that they respect security authority’s instructions.
“Welcome in Brazil. Yet, everyone should respect security authorities and guides’ instruction as they will be mobilized to help all the people who come to the country next summer. Their number is expected to be big,” the ambassador told Echorouk Forum.
“Brazil is used to big world events. We have never experienced security troubles. Everyone who wants to go to Brazil next summer should book a place where to stay. Otherwise, there will be a bad surprise,” he added.
Speaking about services price, he said public authorities in Brazil asked traders and hotel owners to not exploit the world cup event to gain money. “Prices will automatically go up because the event imposes that on market.”
“In Brazil, there are those who seize the opportunity of the world cup to compete with hotels which receive huge numbers of tourists. Some will rent their houses to fans.”
“Protests among Brazilians are understood and will not affect the event”
The ambassador said last summer’s protests in Brazil’s big cities will have no negative impact on the next world cup. “Brazilian people have the right to protest against high prices. Yet, I am sure that those events will not affect the next world cup. Everyone in Brazil welcomes fans. As you know, our country breathes soccer.”
“Algeria vs Burkinafaso game was wonderful”
The ambassador said he could not watch the match between Algeria and Burkinafaso last Tuesday because he had personal commitments. “On November 19th, I was invited for dinner and I did not watch the game. Yet, I watched some scenes. I watched Bouguerra’s goal and I was happy for Algeria.”
Algeria’s celebration reminded me of Brazil
The ambassador said he experienced historic moments in Algeria on Tuesday when Algeria qualified to the World Cup for the fourth time in its history. “The end of the match was wonderful because Algerian people celebrated on the streets. They reminded me of the atmosphere in Brazilian cities.”
“I like Bouguerra”
The Brazilian diplomat said he liked Bouguerra who scored the victory goal in the match. “I liked his way of scoring. I think he is an excellent player.”
Fans will get visa for free to Brazil
The ambassador said fans who want to go to Brazil to watch matches will get visa for free. “Algerians will have a hearty welcome in Brazil.”
“We hope that a large number of them will go to Brazil. That would be great. The number of visa applicants is unlimited.”
Ticket required in visa application
According to the diplomat, applicants should but tickets as from now on the FIFA’s official website. “Visa will be for free for Algerian fans but they need to get stadium ticket.”
Algeria is Brazil’s most important partner on Arab and African level
The ambassador highlighted strong relations between the two countries, saying Algeria is Brazil’s most important partner on African and Arab level.
“Algerian-Brazilian relations go back to 1962 as Algeria got its independence. There is a constant and continuous dialogue between the two countries on the highest level,” he added.
He believes that bilateral relations remained strong in spite of political events which happened in the two countries in previous years.
He also said a joint commission was created to support enterprises. A total of 60 Brazilian businessmen are expected to visit Algeria on December 1st as part of cooperation projects.