On January 26, the capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, officially became the epicenter of sports diplomacy in Asia as it hosted the 46th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The prestigious forum brought together leaders of national Olympic committees, high-ranking sports officials, and international experts from 45 countries.

 

The Assembly serves as one of the most influential platforms for shaping the strategic direction of the Olympic movement in Asia. At the same time, the event highlights Uzbekistan’s growing capacity to host international events of the highest level, reinforcing the image of the “New Uzbekistan” as an active and reliable partner within the global sports community.

 

Turkmenistan is represented at the Assembly by Ata Akmammedov, Secretary General of the Olympic Committee of Turkmenistan. The country is also represented by Allaberdy Sapparov, Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sports.

 

The high status of the forum is underscored by the presence of prominent figures from the world of sport, including Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, First Vice President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, as well as Witold Bańka, President of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is represented by James Macleod, responsible for international relations and the Olympism365 project. A delegation from the Russian Federation, led by Minister of Sport and President of the Russian Olympic Committee Mikhail Degtyarev, is also taking part in the Assembly.

 

During the sessions, delegates are discussing key initiatives aimed at developing the Olympic movement in Asia, introducing innovative approaches to athlete training, and strengthening anti-doping safeguards. Special attention is being given to preparations for the upcoming Asian Youth Games “Tashkent 2026,” which are expected to become a major milestone for regional sport.

 

The participation of Turkmenistan’s representatives confirms the country’s commitment to Olympic values and its intention to strengthen its position within the international sports system. For the Turkmen delegation, the Assembly provides an important opportunity to hold high-level meetings with OCA officials and global sports leaders, as well as to expand cooperation in the development of mass and professional sports.

 

The work of the 46th OCA General Assembly in Tashkent lays the groundwork for future agreements and decisions that will shape the landscape of Asian sport for years to come. By uniting 45 countries and leading international organizations, the forum aims to position Asia as a global leader of the Olympic movement based on fair competition, cooperation, and the pursuit of excellence.