MINSK, 25 October (BelTA) - The 25th General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) took place in Crete, Greece. Belarus was represented by NOC Secretary General Polina Golovina and double Olympic medalist in rhythmic gymnastics, leading specialist of the NOC International Relations Department Ksenia Sankovich, BelTA learned from the NOC press service.
The participants of the General Assembly were greeted by ANOC Acting President Robin Mitchell, IOC President Thomas Bach, and President of the Greek Olympic Committee Spyros Capralos.
IOC President Thomas Bach thanked everyone for their active participation and solidarity in this difficult period. He stressed that without concerted action and mutual assistance the Tokyo Olympics could not have taken place, but despite all the obstacles the Games were held at a very high level. In Tokyo, many athletes experienced moments of joy, some managed to win awards for the first time. This was only possible because of the solidarity in the Olympic movement, Thomas Bach told the General Assembly.
He also praised the intensive preparations for the Beijing Winter Games and expressed his hope that the Olympics in February 2022 will be just as successful.
On the first day, the General Assembly approved the ANOC Strategic Plan 2021-2024, which outlines four key positions of the organization - cooperation, development, representation and activities. All activities of the ANOC to support the NOC will be carried out within these pillars.
The General Assembly also approved amendments to the ANOC constitution, including the possibility to hold the following meetings virtually and ensuring 30% representation of women on the ANOC Executive Board.
The ANOC Events Commission provided an update on the application process for the ANOC World Beach Games and confirmed that the Executive Committee has authorized it to support Indonesia's bid to host the 2023 Games. The final decision will be made by the end of the year.
There was also a ceremony to present the world's best athletes with the ANOC Awards 2021 in various categories.
Representatives of 148 NOCs attended the General Assembly in Crete. Another 57 joined the event online.
