Respected President Receives Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia Hussein Al-Musallam

On January 23, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov received the Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and President of the World Aquatics, Hussein Al-Musallam. Expressing sincere gratitude to the head of state for the time allocated for the meeting, the guest noted that the OCA highly appreciates Turkmenistan's efforts in the development of sports. Hussein Al-Musallam also expressed his appreciation to the President for supporting the development of the Olympic movement and the training of athletes of international caliber. Welcoming the Director General of the OCA, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed confidence that his current visit would give impetus to the further development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Council. As noted during the meeting, the development of physical culture and sports, as well as broad international cooperation in this field, are among the priorities of the state policy of Turkmenistan. Adhering to the high humanitarian principles of the Olympic movement, Turkmenistan advocates for the expansion of regional and international partnerships in the field of sports and takes concrete measures to achieve this goal. In this direction, Turkmenistan cooperates with the International Olympic Committee, the Olympic Council of Asia, specialized federations, and other reputable international organizations, which clearly demonstrates Turkmenistan's broad support for sports diplomacy. Examples of such cooperation include the successful hosting of the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, the international rally "Amul–Hazar 2018" along the route of the ancient Great Silk Road, and the World Weightlifting Championship in Turkmenistan. In addition, the significance of the United Nations General Assembly resolution, initiated by Turkmenistan in 2018, declaring June 3 as "World Bicycle Day," was emphasized. It was noted that through regularly held international competitions in Turkmenistan, the cultural and spiritual values of the Turkmen people, unique national traditions and customs, as well as economic achievements and successes in science, education, and art, are widely promoted worldwide. The parties also discussed the development of water sports in Turkmenistan, which are widely popular globally and contribute to the upbringing of physically strong and healthy youth. In conclusion, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed gratitude to Hussein Al-Musallam, Director General of the OCA and President of World Aquatics, for his significant personal contribution to the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Olympic Council of Asia, as well as for his constant support of Turkmenistan's initiatives in this field. The President wished the guest good health and success in his work. Source: State News Agency of Turkmenistan