CISM President and Secretary General discusses preparations for 1st Military Challenge Kazakh Wrestling with Minister of Defense Kazakhstan
ASTANA (KAZ) – General Colonel Ruslan Zhaksylykov, Minister of Defense of Kazakhstan, recently met with a CISM delegation, led by CISM President Colonel Nilton Rolim, included Secretary General Navy Captain Roberto Recchia and Sports Director Lieutenant-Colonel Jan Van den Dool, to discuss plans for the first-ever Military Challenge Kazakh Wrestling, set to take place in 2025.
The visit was part of the CISM delegation's participation in the World Nomad Games, organized by the Sports Committee of the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
During the meeting, discussions centered on key aspects of developing physical training within the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan, leveraging the experience of other leading nations. Cooperation between the Sports Committee of the Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan and CISM was also a focal point of the talks.
Minister Zhaksylykov emphasized the significance of Qazaq Kuresi, a national wrestling sport recognized by UNESCO, stating: "The revival and development of Kazakh Wrestling are of great importance to us. It not only strengthens the physical endurance of our soldiers but also plays a critical role in preserving our national and cultural values. I thank CISM for supporting this initiative, and I am confident that the upcoming Military Challenge will be a prestigious event, fostering friendly relations among military forces worldwide."
During the discussions, CISM officials not only expressed their enthusiasm for hosting the 1st Military Challenge Kazakh Wrestling in 2025 but also highlighted Kazakhstan's impressive organizational standards as demonstrated during the World Nomad Games. The seamless coordination, attention to detail, and the country’s hospitality during these Games underscored Kazakhstan’s ability to deliver world-class sporting events. These high standards make Kazakhstan a highly credible and attractive candidate for hosting major CISM sports events in the future.
The country's infrastructure, combined with its strong commitment to promoting both physical fitness and cultural heritage, positions it as a prime contender for staging prestigious international military sports competitions. By embracing traditional sports such as Qazaq Kuresi and successfully merging them with global military sporting events, Kazakhstan is setting a benchmark that aligns perfectly with CISM’s values of fostering friendship and cooperation through sport.
This level of excellence not only enhances the significance of the upcoming Military Challenge but also reinforces Kazakhstan’s standing as a host nation capable of delivering large-scale, high-profile events, further cementing its role as a leader in international military sports.
The 1st Military Challenge Kazakh Wrestling 2025 promises to be a historic event, showcasing Kazakhstan’s commitment to promoting its cultural heritage while fostering international military cooperation through sport.
(Source: Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan)
