Beijing, China – In a landmark move towards regional cooperation, disability sports organizations from South Korea, China, and Japan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Beijing on June 12th, 2024. The agreement, inked at the China Administration of Sport for Persons with Disabilities, signifies a commitment to enhance collaboration and promote the development of para sports across the three nations.
The signing ceremony saw the attendance of key figures in the para sports community, including Jeong Jin-wan, President of the Korean Paralympic Committee; Zhou Changkui, Party Secretary and President of the China Disabled Persons’ Federation; and Kazuyuki Mori, President of the Japanese Paralympic Committee.
This trilateral agreement builds upon the momentum generated by the 5th Korea-China-Japan Sports Ministers’ Meeting held in December of last year. As a concrete step forward, the MOU outlines plans for the three countries to send delegations to various sporting events hosted within the region. Furthermore, it aims to broaden and deepen exchanges between national sports organizations and Paralympic committees in various disciplines.
The Korean Paralympic Committee emphasized the significance of this collaborative effort, stating that it will pave the way for increased opportunities and resources for para athletes in all three countries. By sharing expertise, best practices, and technical knowledge, the alliance seeks to elevate the standard of para sports and foster a more inclusive sporting environment.
Looking Ahead:
This MOU marks a pivotal moment for para sports in Northeast Asia. By fostering closer ties and promoting mutual understanding, South Korea, China, and Japan are poised to become a powerhouse region in the global para sports arena. The agreement not only promises to enhance athletic performance but also to raise awareness and challenge societal perceptions of disability.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, June 12). Han Zhong Ri Canji Ren Tiyu Jigou Zai Jing Qianshu Hezuo Liangjie Beiwanglu [South Korea, China, and Japan disability sports organizations sign cooperation memorandum of understanding in Beijing]. Retrieved from [Insert URL if available, otherwise omit]
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