Sports key for diplomacy, peace enhancement – PM

DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has emphasised the importance of sports cooperation in enhancement of diplomacy and peace among partner countries of the International Military Sports Council (CISM).

He made the remarks while closing the 79th CISM General Assembly and Congress meeting in Dar es Salaam, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

“Through sports, various countries in the world have been able to promote cooperation and contribute to the growth of peace in partner countries,” said the Premier.

He highlighted the role of sports in promoting cooperation and peace and encouraged the Council to uphold its values of friendship, solidarity and ‘Fair Play’ to foster diplomatic collaboration.

“The foundations of this Council that are friendship, solidarity and ‘Fair Play’ not only build the foundations of sportsmanship but help promote diplomatic cooperation,” he noted.

Additionally, the Prime Minister recommended that the meeting’s attendees explore various tourist destinations in the country, including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti National Park, and Zanzibar Isles.

The event included a session focused on the CISM Sports Policy, during which Lieutenant-Colonel Jan Van den Dool presented key topics, such as the Sports Calendar for 2024-2028, Considerations for World Military Championships (WMCs), Hosting of WMCs, and survey results on the challenges and opportunities of hosting suche events.

The session also featured the presentation of the 2023 CISM Athlete of the Year Award to Private Nina Christen of Switzerland (Shooting) and Warrant Officer Mohamed Reda El Aaraby of Morocco (Track & Field).

Furthermore, the meeting included a ‘Speed Networking’ event, aimed at facilitating direct interactions between the Sports Department, CISM HQ, PCSCs and Chiefs of Delegation, promoting collaboration, organisation of future events, and knowledge exchange.