President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a keynote address at the 46th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), highlighting Uzbekistan’s growing role in promoting sports diplomacy and regional cooperation.
Addressing distinguished participants and international sports leaders, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the unifying power of sport amid global challenges.
“Sport plays an unparalleled role in strengthening dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation among states and peoples. As a true ambassador of peace and friendship, it unites humanity in ways that cannot be quantified,” he said.
The Assembly in Tashkent marked a historic moment with the unanimous election of Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani as President of the Olympic Council of Asia. President Mirziyoyev congratulated Sheikh Joaan and praised his extensive experience in organizing major sporting events in Qatar, noting that his leadership will further enhance the Council’s prestige.
Uzbekistan has recently deepened its cooperation with the OCA, hosting the 77th session of the Executive Committee in 2022 and securing the right to host the 2029 Asian Youth Games.
“This trust is creating a solid foundation for strengthening sports ties with our neighboring and brotherly countries of Central Asia,” the president said.
Highlighting Uzbekistan’s achievements in sports development, President Mirziyoyev noted that 15mn citizens participate in mass sports programs and that the country has introduced the “Presidential Olympics” to identify young talent.
He praised the nation’s athletes for their successes, including a 13th place finish at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and strong performances at the 2025 Asian Youth Games and Islamic Solidarity Games.
The president also stressed Uzbekistan’s commitment to clean sport and anti-doping efforts, noting the ongoing International Forum and Central Asian Regional Anti-Doping meeting in Tashkent.
During the Assembly, over 20 agreements were signed between international sports organizations and Uzbekistan’s national federations. These include developing weightlifting, wrestling, volleyball, and field hockey facilities across the country, which President Mirziyoyev said will be closely monitored by local authorities and sports officials.
Concluding his address, President Mirziyoyev reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s openness to international sports cooperation.
“New Uzbekistan is always open to comprehensive cooperation in the field of sport. Our doors – and our hearts – are open to close friends like you. I wish all of you great strength, success, and victories,” he said.
The 46th General Assembly brought together leaders from more than 40 Asian and international sports organizations, including representatives of the International Olympic Committee, World Anti-Doping Agency, and the International Gymnastics Federation.
