The UAE Olympic House in Paris recently hosted a high-level roundtable discussion with a distinguished panel of speakers to delve into the crucial role of sports in public diplomacy. The event, entitled “Beyond the Games: Olympics and Public Diplomacy in Shaping National Identity,” was organized in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Led by Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State, the discussion highlighted how sports can serve as a unifying force, fostering cohesive communities and leaving lasting legacies both at the international and national levels. Sheikh Rashed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Vice President of the National Olympic Committee, kicked off the session by underscoring the UAE’s significant participation in the Olympic Games, showcasing the country’s commitment to upholding Emirati sporting values while drawing inspiration from global best practices.
Gabriele Ramos, Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO, commended the UAE’s Centennial 2071 initiative for its efforts in promoting an inclusive society through sports. The panel discussion centered on the potential of sports diplomacy to inspire future generations, bolster social cohesion, drive social impact, and strengthen international connections.
Joining the conversation were Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director-General of the UAE General Authority of Sports; Gönül Serbest, Commissioner for Victoria (Australia) to Europe, the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa; and Samuel Ducroquet, Ambassador for Sport at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Together, they emphasized the importance of utilizing sports as a tool for international relations, inspiration, and the creation of enduring legacies.
The roundtable concluded with a resounding call for nations to leverage sports as a means of fostering global relations and leaving a positive impact on future generations. The UAE remains steadfast in its dedication to advancing these ideals through ongoing global engagement and cooperation.
Noura Al Kaabi encapsulated the sentiment of the discussion by stating, “For us, the Olympics is not only about competing in sport but also about sharing our culture and values with the world, and leaving a legacy that will be inherited by future generations.”
The event at the UAE Olympic House garnered attention on social media, with the official WAM English account tweeting about the high-level roundtable discussion exploring the future of sport and public diplomacy. The tweet highlighted the significance of the event and its implications for the intersection of sports and diplomacy.
Overall, the roundtable at the UAE Olympic House served as a platform for insightful discussions on the power of sports in shaping national identity, fostering international relations, and leaving a lasting impact on society. The participants reaffirmed the importance of sports diplomacy in building bridges between nations and creating a legacy of unity and cooperation for generations to come.