NOC President congratulated sports community on International Olympic Day

President of Belarus’ National Olympic Committee, Viktor Lukashenko, has congratulated the sports community on International Olympic Day, sb.by reports with reference to the NOC press service

International Olympic Day is celebrated annually on June 23rd, this date was chosen to commemorate the day the IOC was founded on June 23rd, 1894. Viktor Lukashenko stressed that this holiday, through sport and the basic values laid down by the father of modern Olympics, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, is designed to unite people for the benefit of creation and progress of all mankind.

"For our country with a rich sporting history and traditions, which continue to develop at the forefront of the Olympic movement, its fundamental principles of unity, respect, friendship and co-operation remain inviolable. Belarus’ NOC consistently adheres to all the provisions of the Olympic Charter, not allowing itself to be interpreted in favour of political manipulation," Viktor Lukashenko said. “We are now continuing serious work to ensure that these principles once again become the guiding ones for all international structures in relation to Belarusian athletes and the sports community of our country, not only on paper. An increasing number of our athletes are competing on the international stage, and a growing number of sports organisations, including thanks to the constant contact of the Belarusian side with them, realise the absurdity and harm to the whole sport from previously made illegal decisions. I am sure that justice will inevitably be restored: the truth is on our side."

The NOC President thanked all the athletes, coaches, doctors and every member of the Belarusian sports team and the Olympic family. "You are demonstrating iron will and high professionalism, worthily defending the honour of our country even in the most difficult conditions. Your victories speak for themselves," he emphasised.

"Every Belarusian is proud of your steadfastness, and the younger generation, observing a worthy example, strives to match it. Every day, it is becoming more prestigious among young people and others to engage in professional and amateur sports and lead a healthy lifestyle. I am grateful once again to everyone involved for their contribution to the development of the Olympic movement, for popularising sports and for the unique emotions that you give your fans every day. On behalf of the NOC of Belarus, I congratulate you on this holiday and wish all sports fans a great mood and good health! Never forget that sports are a huge force, a powerful resource and inspiration. Live with sports vividly and do not miss the available opportunities: the time to win is now," the President of Belarus’ National Olympic Committee concluded.