Tai Hsia-ling, minister of the ROC Sports Affairs Council, is attending the Second World Olympic Sport Convention in Moscow, Russia, in her official capacity, marking a first for Taiwan, according to the SAC April 16.
“I am very happy to take part in the convention,” Tai said, stressing that she will seize the chance to establish friendships with her foreign counterparts and arrange for bilateral visits to expand Taiwan’s sports diplomacy.
According to the SAC, during the opening ceremony, Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah, president of the Olympic Council of Asia, and Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee, both expressed hopes of preventing political intervention in sport and maintaining its independence. Topics addressed at the event include anti-doping measures, illegal betting and the importance of collaboration between governments and private sports organizations.
Initiated in Acapulco, Mexico, in 2010, the World Olympic Sport Convention aims to enhance cooperation between Olympic committees and governments worldwide.
The SAC said 171 sports ministers from 205 countries are participating in this year’s event, which runs April 16 to 17. Tai is scheduled to return to Taiwan April 18. (THN)
Write to Grace Kuo at morningk@mail.gio.gov.tw