Published: November 7, 2025
MONROVIA — The Vice President of the Liberia National Olympic Committee, Malcolm W. Joseph, was among international delegates who attended the 13th International Sports Forum “Russia: Country of Sports,” held November 5–7 in Samara, Russia.
The annual forum, organized by the Russian government, the Ministry of Sports and the Russian Olympic Committee, brought together senior sports officials, policymakers and representatives of major sporting institutions from dozens of countries. Discussions centered on strengthening global cooperation in sports and adopting new strategies to meet emerging challenges in the sector.
This year’s gathering was held under the theme “Sports for the Future: Winning Together.” It was described by participants as a platform for dialogue and partnership aimed at expanding international collaboration in sports development.
Addressing the forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin said sports should remain a neutral and unifying field, not an extension of political conflict. “Sports should not be held captive by political disagreements,” he said, emphasizing principles of solidarity, respect and mutual understanding in global athletic cooperation.
Key discussions highlighted the need to preserve sports as a space for unity and inclusion, promote digital innovation and science in athletic development, and recognize access to sport as a basic human right.
Speaking to reporters following the forum, Joseph described the event as “a valuable platform for cooperation and shared learning among nations.”
“The Samara forum provided important insight into how countries can modernize their sports sectors through innovation and collaboration,” Joseph said. “For Liberia, it presents opportunities to strengthen partnerships, improve our sports institutions and align with global development standards.”
He expressed appreciation to the Government of Russia and the Russian Olympic Committee for what he described as their hospitality and open environment for dialogue. Joseph reaffirmed the LNOC’s commitment to advancing sports as a tool for peacebuilding, youth engagement and national cohesion.
The “Russia: Country of Sports” forum is held annually and brings together global sports stakeholders for policy discussions, exhibitions and bilateral meetings aimed at shaping the future of international sports cooperation.
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