Western Union announces sponsorship of the MTN Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2006

During January and February 2006, the continent will embrace its passion for football through the MTN Africa Cup of Nations being hosted in Egypt. It will be the third time that Western Union has supported the Pan African sporting phenomenon - one of the most important dates in the sporting calendar on the African continent.

Khalid Fellahi, Western Union Regional Vice President for Africa said: 'We are proud to be able to contribute to this celebration of both Africa and football. Western Union is truly dedicated to the continent with the service being offered in 46 countries across Africa. We have a long history supporting sporting events and it is great to be able to show our support for Africa through our sponsorship of the MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2006.'

Jean Claude Farah, Western Union Regional Vice President for Middle East, Pakistan and Afghanistan (MEPA) said:

'Millions of football enthusiasts across the world will have their eyes on Egypt in 2006 and it is a great opportunity to show the world just a few of the things that Africa has to offer. We know how much the African people appreciate the Western Union Money Transfer® service as a means of sending and receiving money from friends and loved ones living and working away from home. Through the sponsorship of the MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2006 we aim to show our support and gratitude to our base of trusted and loyal customers in Africa.'

Paul Foster Western Union Vice President for Marketing EMEA SA said: 'This tournament will be broadcast around the world, attracting a wide audience of Africans residing outside their home continent. Just as Western Union connects loved ones from around the world, the MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2006 offers the opportunity for Africans living abroad to support their National Team, and reignite their ties with their country of origin and the loved ones who reside there.'