AFC - KUALA LUMPUR, In light of the recent episode where the DPR Korea team barred the Japanese journalist from covering their training session in China to prepare for the 2006 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, the AFC has advised the North Koreans team to give their cooperation the media.

DPR Korea will play Japan on February 9 in Saitama Stadium, Japan.

The report on DPR Korea officials chasing Japanese media people from training was reported by AFP in Tokyo.

“I do understand the event political differences between Japan and DPR Korea but let’s leave this to the politicians. We are the Asian football family and matches between us should show the world that we keep politics out of football and enjoy the matches in peace and friendship, said AFC General Secretary Dato’ Peter Velappan today.

“Asian football is an instrument of peace and goodwill for Asia in particular, and the world in general. In the past, football has brought together nations with political difference, conflicts and football has the supreme power to unite people and give them hope.

“I do hope that the 2006 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers will display a showcase of Asian football and also to promote fair play and friendship,� summed up Velappan.