Organisers expect 500,000 participants to the “largest event that Australia will host in terms of international visitors.” Benedict XVI will attend the event which is scheduled for 15-20 July 2008.

Rome (AsiaNews) – With 216 days left before World Youth Day opens in Sidney for a week of activities between 15 and 20 July 2008, Australian organisers have started the media registration process.

All domestic and international media organisations are invited to register online for the “largest event that Australia will host in terms of international visitors,” Australia’s Embassy to the Holy See announced.

The event will also mark the first visit by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to continent nation down under.

Organisers expect about 125,000 international visitors and about 500,000 people to any of its major events.

They also anticipate between 3,000 and 5,000 media to attend and report on the event.

For further information and registration, visit the World Youth Day website at www.wyd2008.org/media

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