The Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) through the Japanese Embassy in Honiara has donated 50 judo uniforms to the National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI) at the Japanese Embassy Head office in Honiara yesterday.
Ambassador Kenichi Kimiya said, he was very pleased to hand over the sets of judo uniform to NOCSI under the Japanese “Sports for Tomorrow” (SFT) project.
“I hope that this donation will contribute to the sports development in Solomon Islands.
“Also with this small gift it will strengthen our relationship with this county.
Kimiya also relayed Japanese Olympic Committee President’s message to NOCSI president Martin Rara.
“Today I am pleased to announce that, as one of the “Sport for Tomorrow” project, Japanese government, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, makes the following contribution for development and promotion of sports in your country.
“We pleaded the SFT program during the bidding campaign of Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and hope it helps your athletes better.
“As an OIC member as well as President of Tokyo 2020 Bid Committee, I am delighted that we live up to our commitment, dedicating to Olympic family.”
NOCSI President Martin Rara said, he was so delighted to receive such important gift from the Japanese government.
“On behalf of NOCSI and Judo Federation of Solomon Islands we are so delighted to receive such gift from the people of Japan.
“Judo Federation will definitely benefit of this timely donation,’’ he added.
Rara stressed, as head of sports body in the country he was so excited that the friendship between NOCSI and JOC as well as the people of Japan will help enhance sports development in the country.
“We have been experiencing lack of equipment’s in sports development today, but with this support it will really boost Judo Federation in the country.”
President of the Judo Federation in the country Eddie Cooper said, the assistance will really help Judo development in the country.
“Solomons had already competed in Judo competition at the Olympic Games in 2012, thus, this donation will boost our preparation for the upcoming international events,’’ he added.
By CROFTON UTUKANA
Meanwhile Japan aims to expand to the people of all generations, including the youth, who represent the future, sporting values and the Olympic and Paralympic movement for better future of the world.
