International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) celebrated in Pakistan by its NOC in recognition of first Olympiad of modern era, held in 1896, and the efforts for and of peace by the Olympic Movement led by the IOC that aim to foster peace across the world through athletes and this day is indeed a tribute to the founders of Olympic Movement who believed in power of sports as an instrument of friendship and harmony.
Over last century, the Olympic Movement has evolved into a global phenomenon connecting people representing diverse cultures to harness equality, tolerance and non-discrimination using the platform of Olympic Games. The day marks recognition by the UN of Olympism and sports for bringing together the athletes, officials and leaders of sports at a single platform to celebrate the sports. The slogan and symbol of April the sixth is a tribute to the founders of Olympic Movement and disseminates message of respect and friendship.
A huge crowd displayed the #WHITECARDS in a ceremony at Lahore to demonstrate the importance of Peace through Sports. NOC Pakistan shares the vision of IOC & UN to promote solidarity and peace in collaboration with the people and Government of Pakistan who have sacrificed a lot to attain a peaceful environment and to pave a way for the national youth to showcase their talent in the field of sports.
Lt. Gen (R) Syed Arif Hasan, President NOC Pakistan shared the vision of IOC for promotion of peace through the Olympic Movement and wished all the participants a great success in future stressing the potential of our youth to make the society better and peaceful throughout the region.
He remarked the huge participation in the event expresses the commitment of our youngsters for the peace and harmony. The event is global and the message is global and the world needs peace and friendship for prosperity, he concluded.
MUHAMMAD KHALID MAHMOOD
Secretary General
Pakistan Olympic Association
