Tunis — Some 60,000 spectators are expected to attend the Tunisia France friendly according to the organisers. Dubbed "The friendship match", the event which is due to take place at the imposing "Stade de France", will attract a large number of Tunisians residing in France, as well as French football lovers. Some 650,000 Tunisian born, and second generation Tunisians live in France.

An original and laudable initiative launched by "00216" (Tunisia's international telephone number), a magazine created in 2007 and destined to the Tunisian community living in France, will consist in distributing 15,000 Tunisian chechias (Tunisian traditional hats) at the entrance of the match, in addition to 30,000 copies of the magazine's latest issue, including the words of the two countries' national anthems, and a Tunisian French glossary. Portraits of illustrious Tunisian French personalities can also be found in the 40 page issue of the magazine.

As the editor of "00216", Samir Bouzidi, aptly put it, "the feast must take place on the pitch, as well as on the terraces".

The latest issue of the magazine, is totally dedicated to showcasing all that unites both countries, just like Hatem Ben Arfa whose picture on the cover page is meant as a symbol of Tunisian French friendship. In an interview to "00216", the Tunisian born, French international expresses his strong attachment to both countries.

The operation is also sponsored by the Tunisian Tourism Board, Tunisie Telecom and ATB.