Belarusian NOC, Russia's Republic of Sakha discuss prospects for cooperation

On the eve of the opening ceremony of the 8th Children of Asia International Sports Games, President of the Belarusian NOC Viktor Lukashenko met with head of Yakutia Aisen Nikolayev. 

The parties discussed the prospects for developing cooperation in sport, culture and economy between Belarus and Yakutia of Russia.

"Since the founding of the Children of Asia Games, we have been trying to ensure that they are held in the spirit of Olympism, fair play, in an atmosphere of friendship. The Belarusian team at the Games is very representative. I am sure we will see your athletes on the highest step of the podium. I am happy to welcome you to Yakutsk on the opening day of the 8th Children of Asia Games! I would like to express my deep gratitude to you, Viktor Aleksandrovich, and to the Belarusian people for finding the opportunity to come and support the tournament, despite all the circumstances," Aisen Nikolayev said.

Aisen Nikolayev stressed that Yakutia has established strong ties with Belarus. Belarusian equipment is very popular with local enterprises.

"I would like to take this opportunity and thank you for the hospitality that we have received in Yakutia. It is very pleasant to be here, we feel at home. For our team, for our children and youth, the upcoming tournament is very important. For the guys, these are the first steps in big sport. We need to expand cooperation with your region. This applies not only to sport but also to economy," Viktor Lukashenko said.

The president of the Belarusian NOC invited the head of Yakutia to visit Belarus in order to consider other issues to boost bilateral cooperation. As it has been reported the Belarusian delegation arrived in Yakutsk on 25 June. It consists of more than 140 young athletes who will compete in 12 sports. The 8th Children of Asia Summer International Sports Games will be running until 7 July.

The Belarusian team has already successfully competed in the 2nd Children of Asia Winter International Sports Games which were hosted by Russia’s Kuzbass in February 2023.

Press department of the NOC Belarus

Photos by the NOC Belarus