Vladimir Maksimov, President of the Children of Asia International Committee took part in the 1st International Forum "Cooperation for Peace and Harmony of Peoples", which is taking place on October 15-16 in Yakutsk.
Vladimir Maksimov spoke at a discussion dedicated to the role of ethnic diasporas and cultural associations in international cooperation. In his speech, he spoke about the importance of the Children of Asia Games in sports diplomacy, strengthening international relations and forming a culture of interethnic communication among young people.
"Sports have long ceased to be just a competition of seconds, meters and kilograms. This is a powerful tool of public diplomacy. The Children of Asia Games, founded exactly 30 years ago in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), have become a unique dialogue platform," said Vladimir Maksimov.
During the Games, the Children of Asia brought together more than 18,000 young athletes from 45 countries. They have become not only a platform for sports development, but also a space for cultural exchange, acquaintance with the traditions of different nations and the establishment of friendly relations between representatives of different countries.
Vladimir Maksimov paid a special attention to the contribution of ethnic-cultural associations and diasporas to the Games. Their participation in the cultural program, language support and adaptation of foreign delegations helps to create an atmosphere of mutual understanding and hospitality.
"Ethnic-cultural associations in this system are not a decorative element, but a strategic partner of the organizers of major international projects. They shift the tasks of humanitarian cooperation into practical terms — into live communication, caring and cultural synergy," the CAIC President emphasized.
The experience of the Children of Asia Games shows that international cooperation is not limited to sports results. Getting to know the culture and traditions of other peoples, communicating with peers from different countries and shared experiences become the basis for mutual understanding, which persists even outside the sports grounds.