We, the undersigned, welcome UEFA’s decision to make Israel the host of the 2013 European Under-21 championship from 5–18 June 2013.

We believe that Israel will be an excellent host for the competition.

We believe that sport has an important role to play in promoting peace, reconciliation and coexistence in the Middle East.

We reject calls to boycott Israel or change the venue of the competition. Boycotts are divisive, one-sided, and do nothing to advance peace. In fact, boycotts are counterproductive to the peace process as they demonise one side, and divide people, rather than fostering engagement and dialogue.