Manama: The Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Bahrain aimed at enhancing cooperation to develop the Asian Olympic Movement. This agreement also supports a variety of educational, training, and awareness programs for athletes, coaches, and referees throughout Asia.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU reflects a mutual commitment to advancing the Asian Olympic Movement by instilling its educational and developmental values. It seeks to foster strategic partnerships that can enhance sports at local, continental, and international levels. The signing ceremony took place in Manama, the capital of Bahrain, which will host the 3rd Asian Youth Games from 22 to 31 October 2025. The agreement was signed by Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of ADSC, and Timothy Tsun Ting Fok, First Vice-President of the OCA.
The memorandum outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration between ADSC and OCA in organizing sports and training activities related to the Asian Olympic Movement. This includes educational and awareness initiatives aligned with OCA, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) programs, and the Olympic Solidarity Programme.
Aref Al Awani expressed his satisfaction with the MoU, stating that it marks a significant step towards expanding cooperation in developing the Asian Olympic Movement. He emphasized that the partnership aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a leading sports hub in the region and supports the leadership’s goal of using sports as a catalyst for human and community development.
The cooperation areas under the MoU include organizing forums and seminars for athletes, conducting training camps, and implementing awareness and education workshops under the ‘Protect Asian Games’ initiative. This initiative covers crucial topics such as match-fixing, athlete protection and welfare, anti-doping, and mental health for athletes.
Additionally, the MoU encompasses the organization of sports governance forums, the development of coaching and refereeing programs, and the hosting of events such as the Sports and Artificial Intelligence Forum and the Women in Asian Sport forum. It also focuses on developing modern training curricula, exchanging expertise, and implementing a Women in Sport empowerment program.
The agreement will remain in effect for four years from the signing date, with an option for extension upon mutual consent by both parties at least ninety days before its expiration.