Russia is taking all steps on ensuring security at the 2018 FIFA World Cup both in preventing terror attacks and the acts of hooliganism, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said.
"Our ultimate priority is to ensure the maximum convenient and safe stay of players and fans in Russia. Russia’s law enforcement agencies are taking all the necessary steps in this direction," Lavrov said in an interview with Mexico’s Excelsior daily.
Russian top diplomat noted that an operation headquarters has been set up that coordinates the efforts of respective security agencies to prevent the acts of terrorism. Serious attention is also paid to the problem of football hooligans.
"To minimize the risks, we have established close cooperation with foreign partners, including in the framework of the Council of Europe's convention, which is open for all states, on a single approach to security, protection and servicing during all sports events, in particular, football matches," TASS cited the minister as saying,
National football information points envisaged by the convention have access to the closed Internet portal providing information on the violators of public order among the fans, the risk groups and other important information.
Lavrov expressed confidence that the upcoming World Cup will give many unforgettable impressions to the guests and invited Mexican football admirers to come to Russia and support their team.
