Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with President of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) Morinari Watanabe and President of the Asian Gymnastics Union (AGU) Abdulrahman Al-Shatri. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
During the conversation, prospects for cooperation in the development and promotion of gymnastics in the country were discussed. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highly appreciated the comprehensive support provided by FIG and AGU to the Gymnastics Federation of Kazakhstan.
The President noted that the popularity of gymnastics among children and youth in the country is growing. Along with numerous local gyms, there are three specialized complexes where the national team trains and international competitions are held. In addition, on the instructions of the head of state, construction of the largest and unique Gymnastics Center in Central Asia has begun in Almaty.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted that Kazakhstan has gained considerable experience in hosting large-scale sporting events. The head of state confirmed the country's readiness to consider joint initiatives for the development of sports and hosting major international competitions.
Morinari Watanabe and Abdulrahman Al-Shatri gave a positive assessment of the support provided by the leadership of Kazakhstan to professional and mass sports. The guests especially noted the achievements of Kazakh athletes who glorify the country on world arenas.
For his contribution to the development of gymnastics in Kazakhstan and the world, the head of state awarded the President of the International Gymnastics Federation Morinari Watanabe the Order of Dostyk I degree, and the President of the Asian Gymnastics Union Abdulrahman Al-Shatri the Order of Dostyk II degree.