Andorra lends UNICEF a helping hand

The Andorran Football Federation (FAF) has renewed its collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, with a view to helping relieve child poverty and encouraging positive footballing values across the world.

Deal finalised
FAF president Francesc Amat and Andorran UNICEF president Maria Rosa Babot finalised the deal which centres on the defence and promotion of the rights of children through the powerful tool of sport. The FAF will assist in spreading information on those rights in countries such as Mauritania, Congo and Cameroon, and will make an annual contribution to the non-governmental organisation as well as organising fundraising fixtures to aid future campaigns.

Coaching initiative
For its part, UNICEF has pledged to collaborate with the FAF in promoting values like respect and tolerance through a guide produced for coaches, with UNICEF representatives set to attend a special course for instructors. UNICEF's Andorran executive director Lídia Magallón said: "We're happy that the FAF has joined forces with us in the defence of the rights of children who continue to be the innocent victims." Babot added that the agreement showed "a desire and willingness to work with UNICEF to help children all over the world."

'Hand in hand'
Speaking at the signing of the deal, FAF president Amat explained: "The federation and UNICEF go hand in hand. Two years ago we had the opportunity to send shirts, balls and other material to a children's project in Africa. It's a privilege to promote the values of this organisation. We also wish to promote non-violence on the football field and want fair play to reign in all matters. We also hope this agreement doesn't end here and continues to evolve."