Diplomatic World Cup Also Hot

2002 World cup is buoying as the most magnificent stage for international diplomacy in 21st century.

1000 VIPs are scheduled to attend the World Cup, including 10 Heads of States such as national leaders and administrative heads, therefore, brisk diplomacy would be on uphold.

Heads of state who will attend opening ceremony on 31st are 7 such as Japanese Prime Minister, Koizumi Junichiro, East Timor President Xannana Gusmao, Palau President Tommy E. Remengesau, Dominican Republic Prime Minister Pierre Charles.

Six royal families and 13 cabinet members will attend, too.

Poland President Alexander Kwasniewski, German President Johannes Rau, etc will arrive in Korea following match schedule of their national team.

Visit of Korea of East Timor President Gusmao is the first visit to foreign nation since resumption.

Heads of countries who are expected to enter 16 finals and 8 finals is also expected to visit Korea after middle of June.

Like wise, Heads of State rush in to Korea simultaneously; therefore government is taking pains regarding ceremony and cordial reception for them.

Government plans various `Korean style` ceremony such as President Kim Dae Jung will watch main matches with the Heads of States, hosting informal summit talks in Cheong Wa Dae or stadium and inviting leaders to a luncheon or tea party.

In 1998 France World cup, French government provided the least ceremony and convenience to extremely few VIPs like Heads of States and Princes, however, our government is scheduled to provide ceremony and convenience sincerely like providing lodging and car as well as attendant to all Heads of States.

Government concerned said, “ we plan to be careful in preparing ceremony despite caring for formality” and “we will try to arrange summit-meeting for strengthening personal friendship through free talk regarding interesting matters rather than discuss subject which is made before hand”.

President Kim went on full-scale schedule of `World Cup diplomacy` from 30th and met Japanese Monarch Aikido`s cousin and couple of Honored Chairman of Japanese Football Association, Dakadonomiya as well as had a luncheon with chairman group like FIFA chairman Sapp Blatter.

President Kim will have busy schedule for one month as host of host nation such as attending 2~ 3 times meeting and event in a day.

Chol-Hi Lee Young-Sik Kim klimt@donga.com spear@donga.com