Paraguay is set to host the FIFA Congress for the first time ever, and a massive police presence will be deployed to ensure tight security during the event. The Paraguayan National Police announced the launch of a special security operation for the FIFA Congress, which will be held at the headquarters of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) in Luque, Central Department, on May 15th (local time).
Paraguayan Police Chief Carlos Benítez stated that approximately 2,000 to 2,500 overseas visitors are expected to arrive in Paraguay for this FIFA regular congress. He emphasized, "This security operation involves more than just personnel deployment; it includes long-term preparation such as information exchange and international cooperation," indicating a thorough state of readiness for the successful hosting of the congress.
According to CONMEBOL, the congress will be attended by delegations from FIFA's six continental federations and 211 member football associations. This reflects the prestigious nature of the General Assembly, FIFA's highest decision-making body, bringing together key figures from the global football community in Paraguay.
To ensure the safety of this internationally significant event, the Paraguayan police plan to deploy a total of 5,000 officers in the Asunción metropolitan area and Central Department, the main area of congress activities. This substantial number represents a significant portion of Paraguay's total police force (approximately 33,000 personnel), highlighting the top priority placed on the FIFA Congress's security. Chief Benítez added, "We will not neglect our daily public safety activities, and we will focus on blocking the entry of specific individuals or groups who could potentially disrupt the smooth progress of the congress." As of now, no unusual movements that could hinder the congress have been detected.
Due to the hosting of the FIFA Congress, Paraguay has made the unavoidable decision to cancel the annual Costanera street parade, a national holiday commemoration event. This is seen as an inevitable measure to dedicate all efforts to ensuring the security of the international event.
This marks the first time Paraguay will host the FIFA Congress, and it will be the sixth time the event has been held in South America in 11 years. This is a significant event for Paraguayan football and the nation as a whole, and it is expected to serve as an opportunity to enhance its standing in the international community through a successful hosting.
Furthermore, in addition to the police force, approximately 700 to 800 military personnel will be deployed to support the security of the congress, suggesting tight security both inside and outside the event venue. The Paraguayan government and police authorities are concentrating all their capabilities on ensuring the safe and successful hosting of this FIFA Congress, which is seen as a crucial opportunity to demonstrate the nation's ability to attract and manage international events.
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