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June 7, 2006
FIFA World Cup 2006: United Nations and FIFA join forces for peace and development
In a joint message welcoming the opening of the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi A. Annan and FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter made an appeal for peace, tolerance and development. Their message is addressed to the whole world as it comes together in Munich to witness the start of the world's biggest sporting event.
MESSAGE WELCOMING THE OPENING OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP June 2006
Football is a global language. It can bridge social, cultural and religious divides. It enhances personal development and growth, teaches us teamwork and fair play, builds self-esteem and opens doors to new opportunities. This, in turn, can contribute to the well-being of whole communities and countries.
That is why the United Nations is using football as a tool in our work to reach the Millennium Development Goals - the set of powerful, people-centred objectives adopted by all countries as a blueprint for building a better world in the 21st century.
And it is why the United Nations is turning to football in our efforts to heal the emotional wounds of war among young people in refugee camps, and in countries recovering from armed conflict.
At the World Summit last year, all of the world's Governments declared that "sports can foster peace and development, and can contribute to an atmosphere of tolerance and understanding".
Over the next few weeks, as billions of people worldwide focus on the FIFA World Cup, we appeal to players and fans everywhere to support to us in our mission. Let us harness the magic of football in our quest for development and peace.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:48 PM | View the original post
Boeing, Continental in Deal for Dreamliners and Next-Generation 737s
The Boeing Company (NYSE: BA) and Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) have announced that the airline has ordered another 10 787-8 Dreamliners and an undisclosed mix of 24 Next-Generation 737s as part of Continental's ongoing growth plans.
This order brings to 20 the number of 787s the airline has on order, the most of any U.S. airline. The value of the 10 new 787s and 24 737s is approximately $3 billion at average list prices.
With the 787 Dreamliner, Boeing continues its leadership and innovation with a mostly composite airplane that consumes 20 percent less fuel, provides airlines with up to 60 percent more cargo revenue capacity and offers passengers a better flying experience. The 787 sets the standard for interior passenger comfort, allowing higher cabin humidity, lower cabin altitude, wider seats and aisles, innovative LCD lighting, larger windows and unmatched stowage capacity.
The first of Continental's 787s will deliver in 2009. The Next-Generation 737s contained in the new order are scheduled to begin delivery in 2008.
"The game-changing 787, in combination with the popular 777, will provide Continental with long-range, fuel-efficient capability and the fleet flexibility to react to an ever-changing market," said Mike Bair, Boeing vice president and general manager of the 787 program.
With today's order, Boeing now has 403 orders and commitments from 29 carriers worldwide for the Dreamliner. Continental was the first major U.S. carrier to commit to the technologically advanced 787, which is slated to enter service in 2008.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:59 AM | View the original post
