The Royal Thai Government, The Amateur Muaythai Association under Royal Patronage and the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur made a combined press conference and there could not have been a more appropriate venue than the arena itself.
Dr Panya Harnlamyuang, Department of Physical Education Director was the first speaker onstage showing his pride in once again having the opportunity to partner with AMTAT and IFMA, to welcome the youth of the world to the heart of Thailand. He stated that Thailand is extremely proud, as only four months ago Thailand hosted the SportAccord 2018 Convention. Even more so, two days ago there was the finals for the FISU World University Muaythai Championship held in Pattaya.
Dr Sakchye Tapsuan, President of IFMA stated the importance of IFMA's grassroots development, which bares the fruits with over 80 countries sending their youth teams to the 2018 Championships. He further stated that this event had a record number of participants, between Thailand, Russia, Turkey and Australia there are over 300 participants alone within these teams. The youth is our future the President further stated and we are proud of ours, especially as IFMA has been fully recognized by the IOC.
Dr Vinit Chanmontree Director of the Sport Office stated that the Youth World Championship is more than just a sporting event, it is a sporting and cultural exchange. Safety is the main concern and IFMA has done a tremendous job in putting the health and safety of the athletes at the forefront of all. He also outlined the beauty of the venue with four competition rings and the opening ceremony which will be a mixture of ancient tradition and youth entertainment. He congratulated IFMA for all their activities outside the field of play with conferences, workshops, the World Youth Gala and certainly the United Through Youth Conference to be held in the ESCAPHall at United Nations.
IFMA General Secretary Mr Stephan Fox was the final speaker thanking the Royal Thai Government for being the host of this event. Over the next week Bangkok will be the centre for the youth of the world. Mr Fox continued to state that the IFMA youth is the perfect example of unity and diversity, and that living together is possible if we understand and most importantly respect our differences. For this reason, much emphasis is given to cultural activities, whereby a special cultural square has been built for the youth to participate in activities and celebrate together. The 2018 World Youth Awards will be a further highlight and undoubtedly the United Through Sports Conference where over 50 other sports are invited to attend and will be another unique highlight.
The press conference ended with a stunning cultural performance and the promise of a continued cooperation towards the worlds most important asset, our youth, our children.
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