IT WAS THE fulfilment of a lifelong dream… and we’re sure Michael D Higgins was fairly chuffed to meet Pelé too at a business event in Mexico yesterday.

At a business fathering in Guadalajara the President spoke about Ireland’s economic recovery.

But as a keen soccer man and ceremonial president of Galway United, Higgins took time out for a quick chat and a photo op with the Brazilian football superstar who is considered to be among the game’s greatest ever.

President Higgins was on the third day of his 12-day official visit to Mexico, El Salvador and Costa Rica.

He departs for El Salvador today before travelling to Costa Riva on Saturday. The President and his wife conclude their trip to Central American on Thursday week.

Photos: Chris Bellew /Copyright Fennell Photography 2013

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More: Aló Presidente! President begins three-country tour of Central America

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