In the latest episode of Leaders Talk, CMG host Zou Yun sits down with International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry for an exclusive discussion on the Chinese mainland's expanding role in global sports.
They begin by reflecting on the “breathtaking” opening ceremony of the 15th National Games, a landmark event co-hosted by Guangdong Province, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and Macao Special Administrative Region. This showcase of the Greater Bay Area's (GBA) cooperation highlighted both cultural unity and cutting-edge production, setting a new standard for national sports gatherings.
Chinese President Xi Jinping's emphasis on sports development and political neutrality emerged as a key theme. Coventry praised the Chinese mainland's holistic approach to public fitness, from grassroots initiatives to elite athletic performance. She noted that integrating community well-being with high-performance goals offers valuable lessons for the Olympic Movement.
As the first woman and first African to lead the IOC, Coventry reflected on what the Olympic Movement can learn from the Chinese mainland's model. She highlighted the importance of inclusive policies and robust governance structures, suggesting that international sport stands at a pivotal moment where collaboration and innovation will drive future success.
Looking ahead, Coventry shared her vision for the Olympic Movement's future: promoting universal access to sport, encouraging political neutrality, and fostering partnerships across regions. Her leadership signals a new chapter for the IOC, one that balances tradition with fresh perspectives inspired by the GBA's achievements.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
