Muaythai at the Most Important World Sport Meeting - SportAccord 2008

Representatives of all GAISF and IOC recognized sports, the IOC and Summer and Winter Olympic Sports gathered in Beijing for the annual world SportAccord.

Muaythai, a proud member of the GAISF, was represented by IFMA, the world governing body for amateur Muaythai.

China’s Premier, Wen Jiabao, spoke at the opening of this year's SportAccord - an international convention which offers sporting federations from around the world the opportunity to come together to build relationships, exchange knowledge, develop ideas and discuss key issues.

Also at the opening ceremony, Jacques Rogge, president of the IOC, expressed his delight with the SportAccord and his eagerness for the opening of the 2008 Olympic Games. He welcomed all representatives of the recognized world sport Federations for the 5 day meeting.

To mark the opening of the valued sports meeting, Mr Rogge once again stressed the power of sport.

"Sport is a social movement that has the power to offer young people the chance of better and more meaningful lives," he said.

"By collaborating around the same vision, sports bodies and governments can play a key role in ensuring that both young and old have a healthier and more wholesome lifestyle, based on physical activity and physical education.

"Let us all focus our energies in this direction."

Hein Verbruggen, chairman of the 2008 Olympic Games Coordination Committee and President of GAISF stated "I'm delighted to confirm to you that preparations are on track and set to culminate in an excellent Games, which start on August 8, 2008." He welcomed all delegates in Beijing for the all important GAISF General Assembly meeting.

The opening was full of cultural displays and the world is looking forward to the 2008 games in Beijing.