On 1 December, the President of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), Mr. Mohammed Jalood, paid an official visit to Uzbekistan, where he took part in a series of important meetings and events aimed at supporting the development of weightlifting and strengthening cooperation with national sports authorities.
Meeting with Minister Sherzod Khidayatov
The visit began with a meeting with Sherzod Khidayatov, Minister of Construction and President of the Uzbekistan Weightlifting Federation. The sides discussed ongoing reforms, infrastructure development, and future plans to enhance Uzbekistan’s position in world weightlifting.
During the discussion, Mr. Jalood praised Uzbekistan’s commitment to creating modern sports facilities and investing in athlete development.
Tour of the Olympic Village & Attendance at Presidential Olympiad Competitions
The IWF President then visited the Olympic Village, where he examined the facilities and learned about the ongoing national multi-sport event, the Presidential Olympiad.
As part of his program, Mr. Jalood attended several competitions, including:
• Boxing
• Taekwondo
• Swimming
These events showcased the depth of Uzbekistan’s youth talent and the scale of the country’s investment in sport.
“The Olympic Village is a remarkable project,” said Mr. Jalood.
“Uzbekistan is investing in the future of sport, and facilities of this quality will help athletes reach new heights.”
Official Meeting with Uzbek Sport Authorities
Later that day, Mr. Jalood met with leading representatives of Uzbekistan’s sports leadership, including:
• Otabek Umarov, First Vice President of the NOC of Uzbekistan
• Oybek Kasimov, Secretary General of the NOC of Uzbekistan
• Shakhrillo Makhmudov, Deputy Minister of Sports of Uzbekistan
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation, reviewing sports sector reforms, and exploring the possibility of hosting future major international competitions in Uzbekistan.
“Uzbekistan has great potential to host major weightlifting events,” Mr. Jalood noted.
“The IWF looks forward to deepening our partnership and exploring new opportunities together.”
Visit to the Center of Islamic Civilization
To conclude the day, the IWF President visited the Center of Islamic Civilization, where he viewed exhibits reflecting Uzbekistan’s rich history, culture, and intellectual heritage.
