Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, as well as Majid Rashed, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, El.k cites Aqorda.
The Head of State highly praised the important mission of the Paralympic movement and noted that Kazakhstan shares the noble goals of this movement. He emphasized that the achievements of Kazakhstani Paralympians on the world stage contribute to shaping a positive image of Kazakhstan as an inclusive, sustainable, and socially responsible state.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your efforts in promoting the Paralympic movement around the world, in Asia, and, of course, in Kazakhstan. We are ready to be your reliable partners, and I am confident that together we will do much to strengthen and further develop this movement in the future,” the President said.
In turn, Andrew Parsons and Majid Rashed thanked Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for supporting Paralympic sports and assisting in the organization of the 8th General Assembly of the Asian Paralympic Committee in Astana. According to them, the Paralympic movement in Kazakhstan has been developing consistently and steadily, based on the principles of equal opportunities for all.
“In recent years, we have witnessed significant progress and outstanding achievements. At the latest Games in Paris, Kazakhstan delivered brilliant results. Your athletes won nine medals, including two golds for the first time. They are following in the footsteps of their predecessors and continue to inspire future generations. This is not a coincidence, but the outcome of serious, systemic work and a clearly chosen course for the future. We highly appreciate Kazakhstan’s commitment to the development of Paralympic sports,” said Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee.
Majid Rashed noted that he had visited Astana in 2018 and was well acquainted with the training facilities created for para-athletes in Kazakhstan.
“I can assure you that all delegations are having a wonderful time here. We have been warmly welcomed, and of course, the atmosphere created by the people of Kazakhstan makes us feel at home,” emphasized Majid Rashed, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee.
During the meeting, the parties discussed issues related to holding competitions under the auspices of the APC and IPC in Kazakhstan, as well as the participation of Kazakhstani Paralympians in educational initiatives and international programs.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the President of Kazakhstan awarded Andrew Parsons and Majid Rashed the Order of Dostyk (2nd degree) for their significant contribution to the development of the Paralympic movement.
Today, 19 Paralympic sports are actively developing in Kazakhstan. More than 800 competitions of various levels are held annually, with over 10,000 participants. The national team includes more than 1,000 athletes.