A landmark day in Colombo: CISM honors, dialogue and global engagement mark day two

COLOMBO (SRI) – The 80th CISM General Assembly and Congress entered its second day with a powerful mix of ceremony, diplomacy and international collaboration, solidifying Colombo as the epicenter of global military sport this week.

The day began with a prestigious Opening Ceremony at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel, attended by CISM President Colonel Nilton Rolim, Sri Lanka Deputy Minister of Defense Major General K. P. Aruna Jayasekara, CISM Secretary General Navy Captain Roberto Recchia, CISM Vice-Presidents, Board of Directors members, and high-ranking representatives from the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. Delegations from CISM Member Nations, officials from international sports federations, and partners were also present in large numbers.

In his opening remarks, Colonel Rolim underscored the unifying mission of CISM and the power of sport to foster peace among nations: “CISM is more than an organization, it is a movement of solidarity, peace, and friendship. Our gathering here in Colombo reflects our shared belief that sport can break down barriers and build lasting bridges between the Armed Forces of the world.”

He also reflected on the organization’s journey and renewed vision: “As we open this Congress, we reaffirm our responsibility to evolve, to listen, and to act. We are here not only to celebrate our legacy but to shape a future where military sport continues to be a tool for peace and international cooperation.”

Echoing this message, Major General Jayasekara welcomed the international community with warmth and pride, highlighting Sri Lanka’s honor in hosting such a prestigious event and officially declared the Congress open: “We are proud to be the home of this milestone edition of the CISM Congress. This is more than a diplomatic gathering, it is a celebration of shared values and a commitment to peace through sport.”

The ceremony featured the raising of the Sri Lankan and CISM flags, accompanied by both national anthems, a moment of solemn unity that captured the spirit of the occasion.

A highlight of the morning was the presentation of the CISM Order of Merit (Grand Officer rank) to Major General Jayasekara, awarded by President Rolim in recognition of his outstanding dedication to the development of military sport and his longstanding support for CISM’s mission.

The official group photo and Opening High Tea provided an opportunity for informal exchanges between delegates, fostering camaraderie and laying the groundwork for productive discussions throughout the week.

At midday, the focus shifted to media engagement during a well-attended press conference featuring Colonel Rolim, Vice-President for Asia Brigadier General Rashid Mahboob Al-Dosari, Captain Recchia, Sri Lanka’s Chief of Delegation Brigadier LKT Fernando, Commodore Mangala Mummullage, and Group Captain DE Geganage, Secretary of the Air Sports Council. More than 50 Sri Lankan journalists participated, raising questions on CISM’s future events, Asia’s strategic role within the organization, and the increasing involvement of Sri Lanka in global military sport.

The afternoon sessions were dedicated to the vital engine of CISM’s development – its commissions. The PCSC Meeting, Sports Commission, Finance and Budget Commission, Strategy Commission, Sports Science Commission, and Solidarity Commission gathered in parallel to address a broad range of topics. These meetings focused on planning, innovation and long-term strategies, ensuring that CISM remains a dynamic and forward-looking organization.

The day concluded with renewed energy and a shared sense of purpose, setting the tone for what promises to be an impactful week of decision-making and global collaboration.

On May 20, delegates will convene in continental meetings (Africa, America, Asia, and Europe), followed by a solemn tribute at the National War Memorial in Sri Jayawardanapura, honoring the values of sacrifice and peace that lie at the heart of CISM’s mission.

As the Congress unfolds, Colombo continues to shine as a symbol of international cooperation, where military sport serves not only as competition, but as a universal language of peace.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department - Pictures: Sri Lanka Navy)