The Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, has signed a nine part agreement with Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva, which includes a scheme for Brazil to assist in the training of Indian footballers and coaches. Part of a broad cultural memorandum, the agreement states the two countries will "cooperate in promoting exchanges in the field of football and training of Indian players and coaches."
Just before landing in Brasilia, Singh told accompanying media: "Brazil’s credentials as a football power are well known. Priyaranjan Dasmunsi (the president of the All India Football Federation) has asked me to raise this matter with the government of Brazil even though this does not happen to be a subject between two governments." Dasmunsi, who is also the information and broadcasting minister, had earlier talked to the Brazilian envoy in New Delhi to seek his help in getting coaches and training for Indian footballers.
Just before landing in Brasilia, Singh told accompanying media: "Brazil’s credentials as a football power are well known. Priyaranjan Dasmunsi (the president of the All India Football Federation) has asked me to raise this matter with the government of Brazil even though this does not happen to be a subject between two governments." Dasmunsi, who is also the information and broadcasting minister, had earlier talked to the Brazilian envoy in New Delhi to seek his help in getting coaches and training for Indian footballers.