The document outlines the framework for interaction between the two countries in the field of sports. The priorities include mutual support for protecting athletes’ rights to participate in international competitions without discrimination, the development of mass and youth sports, the organization of joint competitions and training camps, the exchange of coaches and specialists, as well as cooperation in educational programs and grants.
Michael Degtyarev noted that “the meeting will give a new impetus to the interaction between the agencies and will contribute to the strengthening of Olympic values, which both sides share – the pursuit of peace, friendship, respect, and understanding through sport.”
The head of the Ministry of Sports of Russia recalled historical examples of sports cooperation. In particular, back in the mid-20th century, partly thanks to Soviet specialists, the Gelora Bung Karno was built in Jakarta, becoming practically a copy of Moscow’s Luzhniki.
Today, the sports partnership is evolving, expanding in scope and becoming more practical.
“We have already started working: we are holding joint training camps and match meetings. This year, over 190 athletes travelled from Russia to Indonesia, whereas last year there were only 4. We are actively developing cooperation in sports such as badminton, sambo, surfing, artistic gymnastics, as well as sports for people with disabilities”, the Minister emphasized.
The head of the Russian sports organization said that he would try to resolve all the issues raised by the Indonesian colleagues.
“There are requests for assistance with sambo equipment and for inviting Russian coaches to work with the national gymnastics team. All these proposals are being worked on”, said Michael Degtyarev.
Special attention was paid to the upcoming Forum “Russia – Country of Sports”.
“Taking this opportunity, I invite you personally to Samara – the city that will host the country’s main sports forum from November 5 to 7. It traditionally involves representatives from dozens of countries,” the Minister said.
In turn, the President of the Indonesian Olympic Committee Raja Sapta Oktohari thanked the Russian side for the prompt organization of the meeting.
“I would like to express my appreciation for your ability to receive us and prepare all the necessary documents for signing the Memorandum on such short notice”- Mr. Oktohari began his speech.
He also expressed interest in jointly developing new sports for Indonesia.
“We would like to ask for your support in promoting winter sports in Indonesia. We have never participated in the Winter Olympic Games, but we would like to develop hockey, biathlon, and cross-country skiing. Initial training can be done on asphalt in our hot climate, followed by training on snow in Russia. We hope for your assistance”, said President of the Indonesian Olympic Committee.
Educational cooperation was another key topic. According to the head of the Indonesian Olympic Committee, “even now our students are studying in Russian universities, and we want to expand this experience. We expect that Russia will provide quotas for Indonesian students for publicly funded places, including winter sports”.
Concluding the meeting, Raja Sapta Oktohari emphasized, “Under the guidance of the Indonesian Olympic Committee, there is a National Olympic Academy, and we are ready to develop joint programs in this field”.
The signed Memorandum solidifies the long-term plans for cooperation between Russia and Indonesia in the field of sports, aimed at practically strengthening ties, expanding bilateral programs, and promoting Olympic values.
