India, S Africa visa waiver for diplomatic passport holders

New Delhi, Feb 14 (UNI) Ahead of the Football World Cup in South Africa in 2010, the Government today approved a proposal that will facilitate a visa-free travel for diplomatic and official passport holders, including soccer enthusiast Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi, to that country.

''This is a historic decision. It will make MPS happy, and I am particularly happy,'' said Mr Dasmunsi, who is Information and the Broadcasting Minister and also President of the All India Football Federation.

The proposal for signing of the agreement between India and South Africa on the abolition of visa requirement was cleared by the Union Cabinet presided over by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The decision will also facilitate issue of residence visa valid for duration of the assignment to the members of diplomatic and consular mission, Mr Dasmunsi said.

It is for the first time that the world's premier sporting event will be held on African soil.

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