Belarus’ NOC, Russia’s Primorye Territory to continue cooperation in sport

President of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Belarus Viktor Lukashenko held a working meeting with Governor of Russia’s Primorye Territory Oleg Kozhemyako in Minsk on 11 March.

The parties met at the headquarters of the National Olympic Committee to discuss cooperation in physical education and sports, including the interaction of Primorye Territory with the regions of Belarus, and also approved short-term plans.
 

“Oleg Nikolayevich, you are not just a guest but a welcome friend in Belarus! The events we hold in the sports sector are very important for our children. The level of tournaments has considerably improved, and the competition keeps increasing. Young athletes who participated in the Children of Primorye Games are gradually joining adult sports. We see that the foundation laid in Primorye – the participation in big international competitions and friendship between children - helps athletes in their future careers. This is very important. It is also important that this foundation is formed together with our friends from Russia. You are further away from us than Europe, but much closer to us in spirit. Our relations are an example of strong cooperation despite the distance,” said Viktor Lukashenko.

According to Oleg Kozhemyako, Belarusian teams have proven their worth at recent competitions in Russia. The practice of participation of Belarusian athletes in major regional tournaments will be continued, he said.

“We have discussed our plans together with the head of the NOC of Belarus. We invite the Belarusian team to take part in the 2026 Children of Primorye Games. It will be a full-fledged international competition featuring Russian, Chinese and Belarusian athletes, and also athletes from North Korea. This format helps the children reach a higher level. The athletes maintain the contacts they established during competitions,” the governor of Primorye Territory said.

Press service of the NOC of Belarus
Photos by the NOC of Belarus