CISM President Colonel Nilton Rolim embarks on historic visit to the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China

HANGZHOU (CHN) – CISM President Colonel Nilton Rolim embarked on a momentous visit to the 19th Asian Games, held in the picturesque city of Hangzhou, China, from September 23rd to October 8th, 2023. Colonel Rolim's presence at this grand sporting event underscored CISM's commitment to fostering international cooperation through military sports.

The Asian Games, renowned for promoting unity and sportsmanship among Asian nations, witnessed the participation of thousands of athletes from across the continent. Colonel Rolim's visit was marked by the warm hospitality of the Chinese people and their exceptional organizational prowess, which have become synonymous with the Asian Games.

During his visit, Colonel Nilton Rolim engaged in a series of meetings with prominent figures in the Asian sports community, further strengthening the ties between CISM and the broader sports world.

Colonel Nilton Rolim initiated his discussions by meeting with the President of Kickboxing Asia, highlighting CISM's steadfast commitment to advancing diverse sports disciplines within the military community.

The CISM President also engaged in discussions with the President of the Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne (UIPM), with a primary focus on exploring opportunities for military pentathletes to play a pivotal role in the development of modern pentathlon within CISM.

Later during his stay, Colonel Nilton Rolim held discussions with the Vice President of World Athletics, President of Sri Lanka Athletics, and President of Athletics Federation of India, with a clear focus on promoting the integration of CISM track and field competitions into the global sports calendar.

During their meeting, the CISM President and the CEO of the Global eSports Federation (GEF) shared the organizational structure, mission, vision, values, and strategic objectives of their respective organizations, with the shared objective of identifying common goals and investigating potential partnership opportunities.

Colonel Nilton Rolim also had the opportunity to meet with the Myanmar Sports Minister to discuss strategies for enhancing military sports development in Myanmar and fostering greater participation of the nation's armed forces in CISM events.

A meeting was convened with the Presidents of the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) representing Bahrain, Indonesia, Korea, Nepal, Qatar, and the host nation, China. The purpose of the meeting was to deliberate on strategies aimed at advancing the integration of military sports with civilian competitions within CISM and to encourage increased participation in CISM events.

The CISM President had discussions with the Director of the Olympic Council of Asia reaffirming the desire for a strong partnership between CISM and the OCA. Both organizations emphasized the pivotal role of military sports in upholding the Olympic values of friendship, respect, and excellence.

Finally, Colonel Nilton Rolim met with His Highness the Prince of Bhutan to elucidate the ideals and values of CISM with the goal of promoting sports, peace, and unity on a worldwide level.

Colonel Nilton Rolim's visit to the Asian Games 2023 served as a powerful testament to CISM's mission of promoting camaraderie and understanding among nations through sports. It also showcased China's exceptional welcoming spirit and organizational capabilities in hosting one of the most prestigious sporting events in Asia.

As the visit to the 19th Asian Games concluded on October 1st, 2023, Colonel Nilton Rolim returned to CISM headquarters, reinvigorated by the transcendent power of sports in uniting nations. His visit will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the world of military sports, reinforcing the principles of peace and friendship that underpin CISM's mission.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)