IEA Seeks Stronger Global Ties Through Sports Diplomacy: Muttaqi

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is actively pursuing a strategy to enhance its international standing and forge stronger global connections, with a particular focus on leveraging sports diplomacy. Acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi articulated this vision during a recent meeting with participants of an international traditional wrestling festival held in Kabul.

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Through sports diplomacy, we aim to further expand and strengthen relations with the world.

Muttaqi underscored the deep-rooted cultural ties that bind Afghanistan to its neighbors and the broader region. He asserted that by utilizing sports as a medium, the aim is to "further expand and strengthen relations with the world." This initiative reflects a broader effort by the current Afghan administration to engage with the international community on mutually beneficial grounds, moving beyond political and economic interactions to embrace cultural exchange. The ministry is reportedly working to streamline visa processes and other logistical arrangements to facilitate the participation of athletes.

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He said efforts are underway to facilitate visas and other arrangements for athletes.

The recent seven-nation traditional wrestling festival, which brought together approximately 60 foreign athletes from countries like Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Turkey, alongside 100 Afghan competitors, serves as a tangible example of this sports diplomacy in action. The event's successful conclusion and the positive feedback from visiting sports representatives highlight Afghanistan's capacity to host international gatherings and foster goodwill. This approach is particularly significant for Afghanistan, offering a pathway to positive international engagement that bypasses some of the political complexities that have historically hindered its global relations. It presents a unique opportunity for the nation to showcase its cultural heritage and athletic talent on a global stage.

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For their part, visiting sports representatives praised the organisation of the event and the performance of Afghan athletes in wrestling and expressed commitment to cooperation in the sector.