(19 Jun 1998) English/Nat
CLINTON SOUNDBITE- PLEASE COURTESY UNIVISION
The crucial World Cup match between outsiders Iran and the United States on Sunday has forced the two teams to reflect on 20 years of trouble between the two nations.
In a television address to be aired on Sunday, U-S President Bill Clinton says he hopes this match will help instigate better relations between the countries.
White House spokesman Mike McCurry said on Thursday the game is a chance for the nations to compete in a "healthy way".
The Group F match between Iran and the U-S on Sunday means more to many than just a football match.
Not only is it vital for both teams to keep their World Cup chances alive, but is seen as a significant step in improving relations between the two countries.
Bill Clinton considers it meaningful enough to have pre-recorded a television address to be aired on Sunday when the game is played.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"The World Cup is beloved across our planet because it offers a chance for people around the world to be judged not by the place they grew up, the colour of their skin or the way they choose to worship but by their spirit, skill and strength. As we cheer today's game between American and Iranian athletes I hope it can be another step toward ending the estrangement between our nations. I am pleased that over the last year President Khatami and I have both worked to encourage more people to people exchanges and to help our citizens reach a better understanding of each other's rich civilisations."
SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President
White House spokesman Mike McCurry also said the match may improve relations between the two countries.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"It's -- it is perhaps interesting, if not fortuitous, that the United States and Iran have an opportunity to compete in a healthy way that will be a source of joy for the people of both nations, as opposed to the kind of competition that is deadly - and that has been troubling to this relationship. And I think the President recognises that athletic competition between these two countries is an opportunity to reflect on the different relationships that could exist between our people --something that President Khatami himself has acknowledged."
SUPER CAPTION: Mike McCurry White House Spokesperson
On Wednesday, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright said that the United States was ready to start normalising ties with Iran.
The Iranian government has not commented on the upcoming contest.
Find out more about AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
Twitter: [ Ссылка ]
Facebook: [ Ссылка ]
Instagram: [ Ссылка ]
You can license this story through AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
