Libya’s ambassador to the United Nations, Taher El-Sonni, held a phone call with the Chairman of the Libyan Football Federation, Abdulmola Al-Maghrabi, to discuss arrangements for the upcoming World Football Day, established by the UN General Assembly on May 7, 2024 (Resolution A/RES/78/281), based on a proposal Libya contributed to during negotiations.
The two sides discussed ways to enhance Libya’s participation in global events marking the day, which will be celebrated annually on May 25. This date coincides with the centenary of the first inclusive international football tournament held during the 1924 Olympic Games in Paris. They agreed to highlight football’s role as a tool for promoting peace and sustainable development, in line with the resolution’s objectives.
A series of sports and cultural events are set to be organized both within Libya and internationally, in coordination with continental and global football associations. These initiatives aim to showcase sport’s potential to bridge cultures, boost Libya’s international football standing, and support local development efforts for the game.
El-Sonni reaffirmed that this cooperation reflects Libya’s commitment to UN initiatives that use sports as a platform to empower women and drive development. He noted that the resolution marks international recognition of football’s historical role in bringing cultures together.
Al-Maghrabi said that the federation is preparing a plan that includes friendly matches, capacity-building workshops, and youth-focused community events to coincide with the global celebration. He added that they aim to maximize this opportunity to showcase Libya’s sporting potential.
