News DeskDubai, UAE: The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing international cooperation in sports by taking part in the first Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Ministerial Meeting on Sports, held in Samara, Russian Federation.
The meeting, titled “From Traditions to Innovations: The Future of Sports in the ACD Countries,” took place on the sidelines of the 13th International Sports Forum, “Russia – Country of Sports.” The UAE delegation was led by Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports.
The gathering brought together ministers and officials from ACD member states, along with representatives of regional and international sports organizations, to strengthen cooperation, explore partnership frameworks, and exchange expertise in sports development across Asia.
During the meeting, Al Hajeri underscored the UAE’s vision to enhance global sports cooperation under the guidance of the nation’s leadership.
“Sports have become a universal language that builds bridges of friendship, cooperation, and understanding among nations,” he said. “The UAE places great emphasis on promoting sports as a means of human connection and development.”
Highlighting the growing role of innovation and technology, Al Hajeri noted that artificial intelligence, big data, and smart governance are reshaping the global sports landscape. “Investing in modern technologies has become essential to achieving sporting excellence and nurturing future champions,” he said.
He also outlined the UAE’s national strategy to foster a thriving sports ecosystem that encourages innovation, supports talent identification, and empowers youth. “Young people are the driving force of the future, and investing in them ensures the sustainability of sporting success and its positive social impact,” he added.
The ACD Ministerial Meeting addressed key areas of collaboration, including developing sports infrastructure, talent identification, capacity building, and community engagement. Delegates also discussed ways to enhance cooperation in sports management, training, and policy innovation.
Established in 2002 in Bangkok, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue includes more than 35 member states and aims to strengthen regional cooperation across multiple sectors such as economy, culture, education, science, and sports.
The International Sports Forum “Russia – Country of Sports,” first launched in 2009, is one of the leading global platforms for sports dialogue and policy exchange. Held annually in different Russian cities, it brings together international sports ministers, policymakers, and experts to promote collaboration, youth engagement, and the role of sports as a driver of global understanding and soft power.
