Arshavin joins CE’s campaign against discrimination

"Football gives every player the opportunity to express his or her talent and contribute to the team, regardless of race, religion or social origin. It is also a sport, which gives every player the chance to compete on the basis of ability. This is how life should be," said Arshavin, 28, the captain of Russia's national squad.

His statement features in the CE communique, made public on Friday.

Arshavin has become the latest high profile celebrity to have joined the CE's anti-discrimination campaign. On the same list there are many more personalities of world renown, including French footballer Lilian Thuram and coach Arsene Wenger, of London's Arsenal - the club Arshavin now plays for.

On Friday Paris hosted a conference devoted to the CE's future role in the world and common European space. Taking part in the discussion were many politicians, representatives of civil society and academic circles from various countries, including Russia. The discussions put the emphasis on the idea the world economic slump and the need for addressing post-conflict situations posed new challenges to the European countries; Kazinform cites Itar-Tass. See www.itar-tass.com for full version.