HH the Amir welcomes IOC delegation, emphasizes sports as a bridge of unity and peace

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan Palace yesterday afternoon, in the presence of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Dr. Thomas Bach, the new IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry, Mr. Timothy Fak First Vice President of the Olympic Council of Asia and members of the IOC and National Olympic Committees, on the occasion of their visit to the country.

On this occasion, His Highness the Amir delivered a speech welcoming the distinguished guests and reaffirming Kuwait’s commitment to sports development across Asia.

His Highness expressed warm greetings to the international and regional sports leaders, praising their efforts in advancing the Olympic spirit and supporting the ambitions of athletes across the continent.

“Your presence here today confirms the unifying power of sports,” His Highness said. “It is not merely about competition, victory, or defeat—it is a universal language that fosters peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding.”

He noted that Kuwait, in line with its Vision 2035, places great importance on human development, especially among youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

His Highness also commended the Olympic Council of Asia for its continuous achievements in hosting competitions and empowering youth, urging increased collaboration among national Olympic bodies to enhance women’s sports and para-sports. He called for linking sports to sustainable development through smart infrastructure and technology.

In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, IOC President Dr. Thomas Bach presented His Highness the Amir with a rare commemorative medal originally designed by IOC founder Pierre de Coubertin. The medal, traditionally reserved for heads of state with exceptional support for the Olympic Movement, was revived by Dr. Bach to honor His Highness’s steadfast support of sports in the region.

“This may be your first Olympic gold medal, Your Highness,” Dr. Bach remarked, “but it is truly special, reflecting our deep gratitude and your exceptional contribution to the Olympic cause.”

The ceremony marked a historic moment in Kuwait’s ongoing partnership with the global sports community, reinforcing its role as a regional hub for athletic excellence and international cooperation.