Eurovision licence for Mid East

Eurovision, won by Bucks Fizz in 1981, is in its 53rd year

A Eurovision-style song contest could be held in North Africa and the Middle East, it has been announced.

Eurovision Song Contest organisers said a TV company had bought the licence to use the format in the region.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said it was also hopeful of a contest for north and south America, as well as one for Asia and China.

The BBC's Paddy O'Connell, in Belgrade for Eurovision 2008, said political voting could hinder new contests.

Announcing the North Africa and Middle East licence at a Belgrade media briefing, the EBU's Svante Stockselius said it was in talks for licensing around the world.

Paddy O'Connell said that the Eurovision Song Contest had historically been hugely political and that exporting the format to areas with stronger country rivalries could lead to even more political voting.

The 53rd Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Belgrade, Serbia, on Saturday.

The UK will be represented by X Factor runner-up Andy Abraham.