NorthEast United FC and the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday, marking a significant step towards advancing football development in Arunachal Pradesh. This five-season agreement underscores a shared vision for nurturing talent and strengthening the sport in the region.
The MoU was signed by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister and APFA President, Pema Khandu, and NorthEast United FC owner, John Abraham. Other notable attendees included Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, APFA Secretary and All India Football Federation (AIFF) Treasurer, Kipa Ajay, and NorthEast United FC CEO, Mandar Tamhane.
Pema Khandu described the partnership as a transformative moment for the APFA, expressing optimism about the collaboration’s potential to elevate football in the state. “Our collaboration with NorthEast United FC is a pivotal moment for the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association. This partnership will significantly enhance football development in the region, and there’s no better collaborator than NorthEast United FC. We eagerly anticipate a bright future for football in our state,” he said.
John Abraham, owner of NorthEast United FC, shared his pride in being part of this initiative, emphasising the club’s commitment to representing and empowering the Northeast. “At NorthEast United FC, we believe that we are stronger as one. We are immensely proud to represent the region, and this partnership with the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association is a landmark moment in the club’s history. We look forward to this collaboration as a step towards our vision for football in the Northeast,” Abraham stated.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein echoed the excitement, describing the partnership as a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh. “This collaboration with NorthEast United FC is a proud moment for our state. We are confident that this partnership will produce champion players who will represent the region and the nation. This is a significant milestone for football in Arunachal Pradesh,” Mein remarked.
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NorthEast United FC CEO Mandar Tamhane also highlighted the importance of the collaboration. “This partnership is a significant step forward in our vision for football development in the region. NorthEast United FC has always represented the entire Northeast, and we believe this collaboration will positively impact the region’s football ecosystem while creating pathways for local players,” he said.
APFA Secretary and AIFF Treasurer Kipa Ajay reaffirmed the association’s dedication to football development. “At the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association, we are committed to advancing football in the region. This partnership with NorthEast United FC will accelerate football development in Arunachal Pradesh and inspire players to make both the region and the nation proud,” he noted.
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