New York City – Representative Anthony Weiner (D – Brooklyn and Queens) released the following statement:

“Over the last several days I have had a series of conversations with Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba about the very troubling steps taken by the United Arab Emirates government to deny an Israeli tennis player, Shahar Peer, a visa to play in  the Dubai Tennis Championship Women’s Open.”

“I made it clear that I felt this was a set back for a nation that had made commendable efforts to foster understanding and tolerance.”

“Today Ambassador Al Otaiba informed me that as a result of our discussions Dubai would issue a visa for Andy Ram to participate in the Dubai Tennis Championship Men’s Open. This is good news.”

“This situation was regrettable. Ms. Shahar Peer is a victim of politics over sportsmanship.  But this story has a good ending, with an important lesson being learned on a very public stage.  Even in times of conflict, sports should be a vehicle for celebrating our common ideals and not another device to divide us.  Hopefully this is the last time that this lesson has to be taught.  I commend the Ambassador for his understanding and desire to do the right thing. Now, lets watch the players play.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)