Brazil seeking UN help in World Cup preparations
Brazil seeking help from United Nations in World Cup preparations at stadium in Brasilia
Paramedics and firefighters train during a simulated emergency situation that recreates the aftermath of a fight between soccer fans at a stadium, inside a gym in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, March 20, 2013. The simulation was part of the city's preparations for emergency responders who will work during this year's Confederations Cup soccer tournament in June, and the World Cup soccer tournament in 2014. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
SAO PAULO (AP) -- World Cup organizers in Brazil say they have signed a $17 million deal with the United Nations to help host the tournament.
Claudio Monteiro, the head of World Cup preparations in Brasilia, says the capital's organizing committee signed the deal with the U.N. Development Program this week.
The U.N. will provide temporary structures outside the stadium to house support services and provide some security services.
Monteiro says the U.N. has expertise in hosting big events. Local organizers in Brazil have been under pressure from FIFA and others because of delays in preparations and construction of stadiums.
Brasilia will host the opening match of the Confederations Cup on June 15. Monteiro says the stadium will be ready by the April 21 deadline.
