IOC President Thomas Bach addressed the ANOC General Assembly, praising the collaboration for the Paris 2024 Games and highlighting the role of Olympic Solidarity in promoting equality among athletes. He underscored the importance of leveraging new technology and artificial intelligence, while advocating for the IOC’s position as a unifying force amid global challenges. His acknowledgment of the importance of inclusivity, evidenced by the increased funding for Olympic Solidarity, reflects the ongoing commitment to integrating diverse athletes into the Olympic Movement.

On April 11, 2024, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Thomas Bach, addressed the opening day of the ANOC General Assembly in Cascais, Portugal, where he commended the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the Organising Committee’s efforts in executing the reforms outlined in the Olympic Agenda 2020. President Bach emphasized the vital contributions of Olympic Solidarity in enhancing equality within the Olympic arena and encouraged National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to embrace forthcoming technological advancements, particularly related to artificial intelligence (AI). Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming Olympic Games, President Bach remarked, “This was the message the world was looking for in a very dangerous geopolitical situation with all the tension, conflicts, aggression and wars we have to face in our world. In this context the Olympic Games and we in the Olympic Movement are the only ones who manage in these difficult times to bring the world together in a peaceful competition.” He further acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee and lauded its alignment with IOC reforms aimed at creating a younger, more urban, and sustainable Olympic experience. Consequently, the Games have garnered attention, resonating globally as they are expected to reach over half of the world’s population. Highlighting the success of Olympic Solidarity, President Bach stated that 91 NOCs secured medals at the Games, with some teams achieving their first-ever medals. This accomplishment, he explained, supports the objective of narrowing disparities between privileged and less privileged countries in athletics. To reinforce this initiative, the IOC has augmented funding for Olympic Solidarity programs to USD 650 million, showcasing its commitment to equality within Olympic sports. Additionally, President Bach addressed the evolving geopolitical landscape and the role of the Olympic Movement as a unifying force amidst global divisions. He urged participants to proactively engage with advancements in technology and AI, underlining the necessity of keeping the essence of sport intact amidst commercial pressures. In conclusion, President Bach expressed his gratitude toward the NOCs and ANOC delegates, reminiscing about his journey and the shared experiences that have shaped his tenure as IOC President. He concluded his address by thanking the assembly for their continued support and recognizing the exceptional contributions made to the Olympic Movement. Subsequently, he attended the ANOC Annual Awards Ceremony, acknowledging the achievements of individuals within the Olympic community, including the award presented to IOC member Anita DeFrantz.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) plays a crucial role in organizing and promoting the Olympic Games, fostering cooperation among National Olympic Committees (NOCs), and upholding the values of the Olympic Movement. The IOC President’s address during the ANOC General Assembly serves as a significant reflection of the IOC’s ongoing initiatives, focusing on bringing together athletes and nations while addressing contemporary challenges related to equality, technological advancement, and global unity. The highlighting of Olympic Solidarity further emphasizes the IOC’s commitment to promoting inclusivity across all aspects of Olympic sports.

President Thomas Bach’s address at the ANOC General Assembly underscored the importance of unity and equality in the Olympic Movement, particularly in light of the upcoming Paris 2024 Games. His insights on technological advancements and the role of the IOC in a changing geopolitical landscape highlight the organization’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and collaborative environment within the sporting community. The emphasis on Olympic Solidarity and increased funding reinforces the IOC’s dedication to achieving fair competition for all athletes, regardless of their background.

Original Source: olympics.com

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