Sports Minister Anurag Thakur Opens BIMSTEC Aquatic Championships In New Delhi

In a significant moment for regional sports diplomacy, the first-ever BIMSTEC Aquatics Championship was officially declared open in New Delhi on February 6th, 2024. The ceremony, graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Honourable Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports of India, and Shri Dig Bahadur Limbu, Honourable Minister of Youth & Sports of Nepal, marked the commencement of a historic sporting event within the BIMSTEC framework.

A Landmark Occasion for Regional Cooperation

The BIMSTEC Aquatics Championship 2024 stands as a testament to the growing cooperation and camaraderie among the member states of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). With over 400 athletes and officials from seven BIMSTEC Member States set to participate, the championship promises to be a vibrant display of sporting excellence and cultural exchange.

The Venue: Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex

Set against the backdrop of the iconic Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex in New Delhi, the championship venue embodies the spirit of sporting prowess and unity. As athletes dive into the pool, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their respective nations, bound together by the common language of sport.

Gratitude and Appreciation

Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary-General of BIMSTEC, extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India for graciously hosting the championship. His remarks underscored the pivotal role of sporting events in fostering regional cooperation and strengthening bonds of friendship within the Bay of Bengal region. The championship serves as a platform for promoting understanding, mutual respect, and solidarity among BIMSTEC nations.

A Platform for Future Endeavors

As the BIMSTEC Aquatics Championship 2024 unfolds over the course of four days, it not only celebrates the spirit of athleticism but also paves the way for future endeavors in sports diplomacy. Beyond the thrill of competition, it is a beacon of hope, signaling the potential for greater collaboration and partnership in the realms of youth affairs, sports, and beyond.