PACE to debate FIFA re-vote on 2022 World Cup in QatarApril 21, 2015 - 15:47 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - European lawmakers are likely to urge FIFA to re-vote on awarding the 2022 World Cup to Qatar, according to the Associated Press. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe says it will discuss the issue Thursday. FIFA President Sepp Blatter stands for re-election on May 29. The debate follows a report to the 47-nation Council of Europe in January raising concerns about "illegal payments" to help Qatar secure hosting rights. The report relied on The Sunday Times evidence of emails sent by former FIFA official Mohamed bin Hammam. The British newspaper reported last June that Bin Hammam's cash payments totaling $5 million to soccer officials worldwide helped build support for Qatar's bid. Any PACE decision Thursday is not binding on FIFA. Top stories Armenian gymnast, Olympic bronze medalist Artur Davtyan has reached the finals of the World Cup. Gor Manvelyan has denied reports alleging that he has expressed a desire to one day play for the French national team. Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is not considering FC Spartak Moscow as his next haven, according to fresh reports. 10 Armenian lifters will compete in the 2021 World Championships scheduled to be held from 7 to 17 December in Tashkent. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. |