The New York Cosmos kicked off the 2011 Asia Tour today when Pelé, Eric Cantona and Cobi Jones arrived safely in Singapore. From now until March 9, all three New York Cosmos Ambassadors' purpose is to demonstrate the organization's good-will commitment to developing young talent and building global partnerships.

The tour begins in Singapore and continues onto Hong Kong starting March 6 (featuring Pelé only) and ending March 9, as stated in their press release:

"Other programs taking place in Singapore will include:

A Q&A session hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (AmCham Singapore) in conjunction with the U.S.-Asia Pacific Regional Business Summit. AmCham Singapore Chairman Dr. Steve Okun will address 'What’s Next In the Soccer World' and will talk to Pelé, Cantona and Jones about the important role that soccer plays to bridge communities.

A gala dinner with Singapore President S.R. Nathan and his wife in attendance, benefiting the Bone Marrow Donor Programme.

Ribbon-cutting of a brand new soccer pitch being unveiled at the Singapore Sports School.

A soccer clinic hosted by Cobi Jones with Team Hope, an organization committed to 'changing lives through football.' An exclusive launch of the Umbro x New York Cosmos home kit with leading soccer retailer Weston at their Queensway Shopping Centre Branch."

Also joining the tour are chairman Paul Kemsley and vice chairman Terry Byrne.

"On top of the first-class hospitality and enthusiasm that we have received In Singapore and Hong Kong, we have also seen a significant commitment by organizations and individuals of many levels to developing young talent and the future of the sport. This is very complementary to the mission of The New York Cosmos. We are excited to be here to meet fans, players, partners, leaders and dignitaries—and to let everyone know that The New York Cosmos are back. We will continue to integrate Asia in all that we do and look forward to returning to this region in the very near future," Kemsley stated.

New York Cosmos fans will be able to view photos and videos from The 2011 New York Cosmos Asia Tour on the New York Cosmos' official Facebook page.

For more information about the 2011 New York Cosmos Asia Tour, please visit www.nycosmos.com.

Cesar Diaz covers soccer for Latino Sports. You may follow him on Facebook at Covering Soccer and on Twitter at @CoveringSoccer and @LatinoSports143. Please email your questions and comments to Cesar at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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