80th CISM General Assembly & Congress in Colombo ends on a high note, setting course for Monaco
COLOMBO (SRI) – The 80th CISM General Assembly and Congress came to a remarkable closed on May 23 in the historic city of Colombo, marking the end of an intense week of strategic dialogue, institutional decisions and military sporting diplomacy. The final day began in the majestic Grand Maitland Room of the Victorium Château, where delegates from 78 nations gathered for the last working session of this milestone Congress.
CISM President Colonel Nilton Gomes Rolim Filho opened the General Assembly with a powerful address, expressing his gratitude for the week’s collective efforts and reaffirming the enduring values of military sport. "In these halls," he said, "we have written the next chapter of our shared story. A story driven by trust, teamwork and the timeless mission of friendship through sport." As the President spoke, the atmosphere in the room reflected both pride in recent achievements and anticipation of the road ahead.
The official roll call followed, conducted by Secretary General Navy Captain Roberto Recchia, confirming the statutory composition of the Assembly and initiating the voting procedures on key decisions. The atmosphere was formal yet energized, as ballot tellers took their positions and member nations participated in the democratic heart of the Congress.
One of the most symbolic moments of the morning was the formal acceptance of Ethiopia as the newest member of the CISM family. Brigadier General Nuru Muzeyen Araro stood tall as Ethiopia’s national anthem played, receiving the CISM flag, badge and certificate from President Rolim and the Vice President for Africa. The inclusion of Ethiopia not only expanded CISM’s global footprint but reaffirmed its commitment to fostering new bonds through sport. The CISM General Assembly also officially appointed His Excellency Abdel Fattah Saeed Hussein Khalil El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt and Supreme Commander of the Egyptian Armed Forces, as a CISM Honorary Member in recognition of his distinguished support for military sports and international cooperation.
Transitions in leadership also took center stage. Outgoing Board members Colonel José Carlos Garcia Verdugo and Major General Oleg Botsman were honored with plaques of recognition, acknowledging their years of invaluable service. Their departure made way for new appointments, with Brigadier General Brenda Mutungutungu of South Africa, Brigadier Generals Jamshid Fooladi of Iran and Ali Ibrahim Al-Shaikhi of Saudi Arabia, and Lieutenant Colonels Christian Lützendorf of Germany and Jan Van den Dool of the Netherlands joining the CISM Board of Directors. These individuals took the stage to receive their official badges from the President and formally assumed their new roles, embodying the future leadership of the organization.
A particularly moving segment of the session followed with the awarding of the CISM Order of Merit, the organization’s highest distinction. This medal, given to those who have shown exceptional dedication to CISM’s ideals, was conferred upon Colonel José Carlos Garcia Verdugo, Colonel Nathalie Birgentzlen, Colonel Sega Sissoko and Air Vice Marshall Simon Nyowani. The awards were met with prolonged applause, underscoring the profound respect and admiration for their contributions.
After a short intermission, the Closing Ceremony began in grand style, blending military protocol with heartfelt farewell. The Secretary of Defence of Sri Lanka was presented with a special token of appreciation on behalf of CISM for the nation’s extraordinary hospitality. Flags were lowered in solemn dignity, and the ceremonial handover of the CISM flag to the Captain Denis Raymond, Chief of Delegation of Monaco to CISM, signaled the end of Colombo’s tenure as host.
During the Closing Ceremony, additional awards of the CISM Order of Merit were presented to several high-ranking Sri Lankan authorities in recognition of their outstanding support and commitment to the values and success of CISM. These included Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha, Secretary to the Minister of Defence, decorated with WWV, RWP and two Bars, RSP and Bar, USP, and holder of multiple academic distinctions including MMSc, MSc in Management, MSc (Defence & Strategic Studies), fndu (China) and psc; Lieutenant General BKGML Rodrigo, RSP, ctf-ndu, psc, IG, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army; Brigadier LKT Fernando, RSP, USP, Army Sports Director and Chief of Delegation of Sri Lanka to CISM; Commodore PM Mummullage, RSP, USP, psc, Director of Sports of the Sri Lanka Navy and holder of an MBA, MSc, BSc, and MTS; and Group Captain Eranda Geeganage, Director of Sports of the Sri Lanka Air Force and General Coordinator of the Local Organizing Committee of the 80th CISM General Assembly and Congress. Their recognition was met with heartfelt applause, a reflection of the deep appreciation from the international military sports community.
In his official closing speech, Colonel Rolim addressed the delegates with sincerity and warmth, stating, “We arrived here from all corners of the world, wearing different uniforms, speaking different languages, but united by the same purpose: to serve through sport, to lead through example, and to connect through the values that define the CISM family.” He went on to reflect: “CISM moves forward now stronger, more connected, and more prepared. But we also leave with something even greater: renewed friendships, unforgettable moments, and a deeper sense of why we do what we do.”
The President concluded with a heartfelt reminder of the spirit that binds the CISM community beyond official gatherings. “Tonight, as we share our final conversations, exchange gifts, and celebrate in fellowship, remember: the true legacy of CISM is not only in our assemblies or competitions, but it also lives in the spirit we carry beyond them.”
As evening fell, the tone shifted from formal to festive during the Gala Dinner. Set against the elegant backdrop of Colombo’s colonial architecture and tropical charm, the event brought together delegates, organizers and guests in a spirit of camaraderie and celebration.
Though the Congress has officially closed, the journey continued as delegates took part in a Cultural Day excursion to the magnificent Galle Fort. Located on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. With its timeless streets, ancient ramparts and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, Galle Fort offered delegates a unique opportunity to reflect, connect and experience the blend of cultures that echo the very spirit of CISM.
As the final chapter of the 80th Congress is written, Colombo stands as a powerful symbol of CISM’s mission fulfilled. Through dialogue, diversity and sport, the world’s military athletes and leaders have once again proven that friendship is not only possible, it is the foundation of global peace and progress. And while the lights dim on this historic gathering, eyes are already turning to the shores of the Mediterranean, where the Principality of Monaco, with its elegance, prestige and sporting legacy, will play host to the 81st CISM General Assembly. A fitting stage for the next chapter in the story of unity through sport.
(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department - Pictures: Sri Lanka Delegation to CISM)
