Kazakhstan President welcomes IJF President Marius Vizer, celebrates growth of Judo in the nation
Farzad Youshanlou
November 3, 2024

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation, in a show of commitment to fostering judo’s growth within Kazakhstan and strengthening cooperation with the IJF. Expressing gratitude for Vizer’s enduring contribution to the global development of judo, President Tokayev remarked on the sport’s burgeoning popularity across the nation, particularly among youth.

“We believe that your visit is significant for encouraging mutually beneficial collaboration between Kazakhstan and the International Judo Federation,” said President Tokayev during the meeting.

He emphasized that judo holds a special place not only in the international sports arena but also in the hearts of Kazakhstani people. Over 160,000 Kazakhstani citizens, including both adults and children, are currently practicing judo in various clubs and training centers. The President also mentioned Kazakhstan’s pride in local athlete Yeldos Smetov, who recently clinched a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, as a testament to the nation’s judo prowess.

President Tokayev highlighted Kazakhstan’s enthusiasm for building stronger connections with the IJF, seeking to benefit from increased opportunities for Kazakhstani athletes and coaches to engage at an international level.

BILATERAL RELATIONS

Marius Vizer, in response, thanked President Tokayev for his personal support of judo in Kazakhstan.

“It is a great honor for me to be here. I would like to extend my gratitude to you and Kazakhstan for your support of not only judo but also of the global sports movement, which is increasingly a means of education, social integration, and peace-building,” said Vizer.

Vizer further underscored the IJF’s commitment to promoting social values through judo, stating that the sport plays an essential role in developing disciplined, responsible individuals who contribute positively to society. All members of the global judo community, he noted, are united by their dedication to these principles.

OPENING JUDO ACADEMY

A significant development on the horizon is the planned opening of an IJF Academy in Astana. Supported by the IJF, this facility is set to become a major center for the training of elite coaches and referees, aiming to elevate the standard of judo across Kazakhstan and surrounding regions.

Both leaders exchanged views on the prospects of long-term collaboration between Kazakhstan and the IJF, with discussions also touching on Kazakhstan’s preparations to host the 2027 World Judo Championship, a milestone event for the nation.

Concluding the meeting, President Tokayev awarded Marius Vizer the Order of Dostyk, 2nd degree, recognizing his contributions to promoting judo in Kazakhstan. This honor reflects the nation’s commitment to fostering a vibrant judo community and a lasting partnership with the International Judo Federation.

Latest News