JFA assembled ASEAN-Japan Football Development Seminar on Sunday 6th April in Osaka, which is targeted for football federations in the region of ASEAN. Subsequently it held another meeting, “ASEAN‐East Asian Regions Member Association Gathering”, in Tokyo on Wednesday 9th with representatives from federations in ASEAN and East Asian regions.  

During the Football Development Seminar held on 6th April in Sakai city in Osaka following Japan-ASEAN Youth Football Exchange, JFA’s vice-president Tajima Kohzo spoke to ASEAN member federations about the Japan’s partnerships with Asian countries including the ASEAN region as well as the history, achievements and current situations of Japan’s Football. Then Murai Mitsuru, J-League Chairman, made a presentation on the league’s history, obstacles that Asia’s football faces and joint projects between J-League and the ASEAN countries.

ASEAN‐East Asian Regions Member Association Gathering was assembled at JFA House in Tokyo on 9th, welcoming representatives from federations in East Asian region.

Following the opening address by JFA President Daini Kuniya, Fujimura Shoji, Special Appointive General Manager, gave out a speech titled “Acts against Match Fixing” explaining how the league prevents such fraudulent acts. Then attendees participated in discussions separately themed as competition, operation and marketing, and technical matters. In every field of discussions, countries shared their strengths and know-hows and all agreed that they would keep cooperating with each other for the development of football in all Asia. In addition, the plan to continue holding ASEAN‐East Asian Regions Member Association Gathering in the future was confirmed. 

Comment

TASHIMA Kohzo, Vice President, Japan Football Association

During the meetings, we discussed how we can contribute for the development of football in both ASEAN and East Asia. Also we all agreed that countries in both regions would strengthen our partnerships. These two regions believe in our potential of constructively helping each other’s growth, and would like to spread what we learn in these two regions to other regions in Asia.