Pretoria - Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has lauded her department for fast-tracking visa applications and exemptions for accredited FIFA delegates during the FIFA 2010 World Cup Final Draw.
Dlamini Zuma said a dedicated unit to assist in the fast-tracking of all permits and/or visa applications was established to help the pre-screened delegates.
"As a Department, and as part of the overall government efforts to host the 2010 World Cup, we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure the smooth entry into our country by all FIFA delegates, guests and multitudes of soccer fans whose support is critical to the success of the World Cup," she said.
She added that government was proud of the spirit of Ubuntu shown by South Africans during the final draw and the display of the flair and efficiency that will indeed be the hallmark of hosting the World Cup.
Meanwhile, she said the engagement with identified foreign countries for the deployment of Airline Liaison Officers at identified high volume hubs was progressing well, with six of the eight identified countries having agreed to their deployment.
Dlamini Zuma said the engagement with neighbouring countries for the establishment of joint Border Operations during the 2010 World Cup is at an advanced stage and the first trial run is scheduled for the Ficksburg Bridge - between South Africa and Lesotho - during this festive season.
