Commemoration of International Day Sport for Development and Peace

Tehran Peace Museum (TPM) organized a ceremony on the occasion of International Day of Sport for Development and Peace with participation of sportsmen and women at the Museum on 8 April 2017, AVA Diplomatic reports.

The event was supported by the UN Information Center. The ceremony began by TPM volunteer Gholam Hashemi’s welcoming remarks. Then University Professor Dr. Bahman Sobhani spoke about role of sport for health, self-confidence and development. He said sports contributes to the creation of trust and tranquility within societies as well as increases cooperation among nations and brings peace in the world.

A UN video clip on importance of sport for peace and development was displayed for the audience. The ceremony continued by a speech from mountaineering coach Maryam Zandi followed by UNIC National Information Officer Mohammad Moghadam’s remarks.

Then Ehsan Mohammadi Mahalati delivered the message of Head of the Art and Cultural Organization of Tehran Municipality Dr. Mahmood Salehi. He said the Art and Cultural Organization of Tehran Municipality is happy to play a greater role with regard to promoting culture of peace and sport in Tehran.

The ceremony continued by UNESCO Director General Ms. Irina Bokova’s message that was read by one of TPM members Mr. Ali Akbar Fazli. In her message Bokova said that physical inactivity leads every year to an estimated 3.2 million deaths. This is why UNESCO has joined forces with the World Health Organization to combat sedentary lifestyles, starting with inclusive and equitable quality physical education at school.

The ceremony ended by a symbolic chess game between Mr. Gholam Hashemi and International Master and Woman Grandmaster chess player Sarasadat Khademalsharieh.

UN promotional materials, including posters with SDGs icons in Persian were distributed at the event.