Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has announced the government's commitment to hosting significant international sports gatherings and conferences in the Maldives.
Speaking at a press conference after the inauguration of the 6th Asian Carrom Championship on March 28, Minister Rafiu emphasised the government's aspirations to not only organise international sports tournaments but also to serve as a venue for major sporting conferences.
In addition to these plans, Minister Rafiu highlighted a series of upcoming events scheduled for the year, including the South Asian Bodybuilding Championships in June, the World Bodybuilding Championship in November, the Maldives Open Pool Billiards Championships in June, the Asian Surfing Championships in August, and the Maldives Pro Bodyboarding Championship, along with a Maldives Open Badminton Championship.
Furthermore, Minister Rafiu expressed ongoing efforts to collaborate with various stakeholders to increase the number of international tournaments held in the Maldives, aiming to position the country as a prime sports destination for tourists. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with institutions to align tourism promotion efforts with the scheduling of all tournaments, particularly those of international significance.
When questioned about the objective of hosting the 6th Asian Carrom Championship, Minister Rafiu highlighted the unwavering commitment of the Maldives to pursuing excellence, even beyond the realm of carrom. He also underscored the government's goal of leveraging sports to stimulate economic growth in the Maldives.