New York: The Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations organized an event at the UN headquarters in New York to commemorate the first anniversary of World Football Day, in collaboration with the permanent missions of Libya and Tajikistan. The event was graced by the presence of Dennis Francis, President of the UN General Assembly, and Gianni Infantino, President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
According to Bahrain News Agency, Ambassador Jamal Faris Al Ruwaie, the Permanent Representative of Bahrain to the UN in New York, underscored Bahrain's unwavering support for the sports sector under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Ambassador Al Ruwaie emphasized Bahrain's commitment to using sport as a tool to foster human values, promote dialogue, and support the Sustainable Development Goals.
Ambassador Al Ruwaie also praised the efforts of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS), and His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the SCYS, Chairman of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee. Their contributions in developing sports, nurturing young talent, and promoting sport as a lifestyle were highlighted.
He further noted that the unanimous adoption of a General Assembly resolution last year, which declared May 25 as World Football Day and was initiated by Bahrain along with other countries, showcased global acknowledgment of football's role in fostering peace and sustainable development.
Ambassador Al Ruwaie reiterated Bahrain's commitment to working collectively to harness the power of football in uniting people across various cultures, borders, and generations. This commitment translates into initiatives that promote solidarity and cooperation for a peaceful and sustainable future.
In conjunction with World Football Day celebrations, Ambassador Al Ruwaie also participated in a UNICEF event titled "Every Play for Every Child," organized in collaboration with the Group Friends of Football, co-chaired by Bahrain.