Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has granted FIFA President Gianni Infantino Lebanese citizenship in a symbolic gesture recognizing his support for the development of football in Lebanon.

The move came during Infantino’s two-day visit to the country with his Lebanese wife, Lina Al-Ashqar, during which he met with local officials and expressed his happiness at strengthening his formal ties with Lebanon.

The Lebanese Football Association said the decision reflects Lebanon’s appreciation for the 55-year-old FIFA chief and his contributions to promoting Lebanese football at the regional and international levels.