Accra, Jan 21, GNA - Canon Incorporated, manufactures of cameras, office equipment and broadcast equipment and sponsors of Ghana 2008 has pledged to strengthen their relationship with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in hosting the Cup of Nations. Speaking at a reception for scores of Canon staff from Africa, the Middle East and Asia and big wigs of Ghanaian corporate organisations, who do business with them, Mr Leslie Hart, General Manager, Sales and Consuming Products for Africa said the euphoria soccer generates on the African continent will ensure that Canon remains a partner of CAF to organise the Tournament.

He said the tournament would rejuvenate Canon's corporate image and enhance the growth of business on the African continent. Mr Hart said the assemblage of corporate big guns at the ceremony was the company's little way of showing appreciation and gratitude for the loyalty of their companies and to ask for the sustained patronage of their products.

He assured that information would be available when a European delegation arrived in Ghana during the course of the competition in relation to any plans to support football at the grassroots in Africa. In a welcome address, Mr Rami Halimi, General Manager of Oman Fofor, representatives of Canon in Ghana commended the loyalty of their local partners.

He pointed out that among the reasons for the invitation was to refuel their relationship with their customers in a relaxed atmosphere as well as share business ideas.

Mr Halimi thanked their guest for honouring the invitation and promised them a healthier relationship in the future saying, "We look forward to a stronger business relationship and as you cheer with Ghana and win with Ghana, be assured that Canon will cheer your business on and win with you.

"Canon brand will keep focus on you our customers." Mr Nathan Dusema, the Sales and Trading Manager of Canon in Ethiopia indicated that he was highly impressed with the warm reception by Oman Fofor.

"It's been wonderful and we are looking forward to sharing ideas with the many people gathered here."

It was a mix zone at the International Conference Centre, as guests fraternised and engaged in fruitful discussions before, during and after a buffet provided by Labadi Beach Hotel. Some of the corporate big wigs who graced the occasion were the Managing Director of Ecobank, Mr Samuel Adjei; Mr Frank Adu, Managing Director CAL Bank.