LOC17:15
14:15 GMT
KUN0077 4 GEN 0279 KUWAIT /KUNA-MJP4
PPL-MIDDLE EAST-RONALDO
I love Palestinian people-- Ronaldo in Palestine
RAMALLAH, May 16 (KUNA) -- Famous Brazilian soccer player Ronaldo De Lima,
who is also a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, started a few hours visit to
Palestine Monday in a mission to support peace efforts with Israel.
Ronaldo, 28, was received with a popular celebration in Ramallah. Tens of
Palestinian youths gathered in front of the Premier Council building where
Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qurei was waiting to meet Ambassador De Lima.
Qurei said that Ronaldo's visit was very important for it has supported the
peace process and the Palestinian people, describing the Brazilian player as
"a man of peace."
After meeting with Qureia, Ronaldo paid a visit to an indoor sports field
in Beerah town where he was received by a big crowd of people.
Tens of Palestinian Youths wore the famous yellow and green Brazilin
national team shirt and held Ronaldo posters, chanting his name as he joyfully
waved to them.
Ronaldo addressed the crowd to thank them on behalf of all Brazilin players
for the warm greeting he was received with in "Palestine, which I love and
adore its people."
Two Palestinian youths, one of whom disabled, presented two symbolic gifts
to Ronaldo, on behalf of the victims of Israeli invasion.
Ronaldo was due to watch a soccer show, performed by Palestinian youths,
but the excited big crowd was hard to control, so the show was cancelled due
to organizational reasons.
Ronaldo is due to meet with Palestinian officials and athletes later today
to discuss ways to support Palestinian athletic movement before he heads to
Israel. (end)
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