Dushanbe, 1st June 2023: Mr Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation (IJF), had the honour and pleasure of meeting His Excellency, President Rahmon Emomali, the esteemed President of the Republic of Tajikistan. The meeting, held in Dushanbe, was marked by a fruitful and constructive discussion on various topics of mutual interest.
Mr Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation (IJF) and His Excellency, President Rahmon Emomali, the esteemed President of the Republic of Tajikistan

The focus of the meeting revolved around the youth population, which constitutes a significant portion of Tajikistan's demographic landscape. Mr Vizer and President Emomali engaged in a thoughtful dialogue concerning the advancement of youth in Tajikistan, with an emphasis on the fields of sport, culture, education and the development of a new sports infrastructure.

Highlighting Tajikistan's commitment to fostering a sporting culture, the leaders addressed the forthcoming opening of the National Sport Arena, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to hosting major international sporting events. Anticipated to inaugurate in just a few months, the National Sport Arena is poised to become a significant landmark and a key platform for promoting sporting excellence and international collaboration.

Mr Marius Vizer, His Excellency President Rahmon Emomali and Mr Ismoil Mahmadzoir, President of the Tajikistan Judo Federation

In addition to discussing the National Sport Arena, President Vizer and President Emomali explored the possibility of organising a Judo World Championships in Tajikistan. The prospect of hosting such a prestigious event reflects Tajikistan's active engagement in the development and promotion of judo, further solidifying its position within the global judo community.

Furthermore, both leaders deliberated on the potential for hosting a Judo Economic Forum with that occasion, emphasising the symbiotic relationship between sports and economic development.

Tajikistan, as President Vizer acknowledged, is a nation committed to the advancement and integration of its younger generation within society. Mr Vizer praised Tajikistan's unwavering dedication to utilising sport as a powerful vehicle for education and social integration while simultaneously promoting traditional values and cultural heritage.

The International Judo Federation recognises the tremendous potential and enthusiasm exhibited by Tajikistan in advancing the world of sport, particularly in the realm of judo. President Vizer expressed his gratitude to President Emomali for his invaluable insights and unwavering support for the international co-operation and the growth of judo, illustrated by the success of the debut of the Dushanbe Grand Prix which commences tomorrow at the Kasri Tennis Arena.

Mr Marius Vizer and Mr Ismoil Mahmadzoir

Actually, in an exciting development, the International Judo Federation is thrilled to announce that the inaugural edition of the judo grand prix will be starting tomorrow. This represents a monumental event in the global judo calendar, bringing together elite athletes from around the world to compete at the highest level. Tajikistan's hosting of this prestigious competition further underscores their commitment to judo and their capacity to organise world-class sporting events.

The International Judo Federation looks forward to continued collaboration with Tajikistan and commends its steadfast commitment to the development and promotion of sports within the nation. The meeting between President Vizer and President Emomali marks a significant milestone in the strengthening of bilateral relations, opening new avenues for cooperation between the International Judo Federation and Tajikistan.

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