FIFA to donate $250,000 to families of Egypt football riots victimsFebruary 8, 2012 - 12:04 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - FIFA president Sepp Blatter has confirmed that world football's governing body will donate $250,000 to the families of those people killed in last week's football riots in Egypt, CNN reported. More than 70 people lost their lives after violence erupted at the end of a match between Al Masry and Al Ahly in Port Said. A bank account has been set up by Al Ahly to help support families who lost loved ones, with Blatter appealing to the world of football to show their support for the north African nation. Blatter said in a statement: "I stated after the tragedy that this day was a black day for football. I'm still very shocked by what happened. Many of the victims were so young and they were also a crucial support for their families, who now need help." Blatter added: "The football community, including FIFA, must assist its Egyptian brothers and sisters." Security forces were criticized by many supporters for their apparent lack of urgency as the riots unfolded. This resulted in further clashes over two days between protesters and Egyptian police, which saw a further 12 people killed. The violence also reignited demands for Egypt's military-led government to make reforms and improve security. 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 | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Azerbaijan must respect human rights, Scholz tells Aliyev German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called for greater respect for human rights in Azerbaijan. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. |