Geneva, Switzerland (UNOSDP), 24 April 2015: The Special Adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General on Sport for Development and Peace Mr. Wilfried Lemke is pleased to announce his acceptance of the invitation extended to him to visit the first ever edition of the European Games, to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 12 to 28 June 2015.
These novel continental Games will feature over 6,000 athletes from 50 European nations competing in 20 sports over 17 days of competition in the spirit of peace, fair play, friendship and unity. The Inaugural European Games pioneered by Azerbaijan will open a new chapter in the European Olympic movement.
During Mr. Lemke’s visit Baku he will attend the Games opening ceremony, witness competitions and meet with Officials of the Government of Azerbaijan, the Games Organizing Committee and the European Olympic Committee.
“The first ever edition of the European Games in Baku will be a further welcome opportunity to promote education, understanding, peace, harmony, solidarity and tolerance through sport and the transformative platform of a new major sport event. I am looking forward to this historic occasion and to working with all stakeholders to utilize the Games as a catalyst for a sustainable legacy and social progress“, said Mr. Lemke.
The Special Adviser Mr. Lemke also commends the Government of Azerbaijan for laying a strong focus on Sport for All and youth development, which is also a priority of Mr. Lemke’s activities in his capacity as Special Adviser. With a large proportion of youth, and a median age of population of just 30 years, the nation has made significant investments over the last years leading up to the Games to provide proper sporting infrastructure and modern facilities throughout the entire country at no cost to the individual.
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