UFA: Iraq and Russia have formalized their commitment to enhancing collaboration in the field of sports through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The agreement, which underscores the intention to build stronger cooperative ties and friendship between the two nations, was signed in Ufa, the capital of the Republic of Bashkortostan.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the MoU was signed by Iraq’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Ahmed Al-Mubarqa, and Russia’s Minister of Sports, Mikhail Vladimirovich Degtyarev. The signing ceremony took place during the 12th Russian International Sports Conference, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in sports. Minister Al-Mubarqa emphasized the positive bilateral relations between Iraq and Russia, expressing readiness to implement the MoU’s provisions through a carefully developed joint program.

Minister Al-Mubarqa also acknowledged the warm reception and hospitality extended to the Iraqi delegation, further solidifying the friendly t
ies between the two countries. Russian Minister Degtyarev expressed enthusiasm about the MoU, emphasizing Russia’s commitment to sharing expertise to aid in the development of Iraqi sports. The agreement includes plans for exchanging visits of sports teams and delegations to promote mutual growth.

In addition to the MoU with Russia, Minister Al-Mubarqa held discussions with Belarusian Minister of Sports and Tourism Sergei Kovalchuk in Ufa. These discussions focused on renewing and advancing the existing MoU between Iraq and Belarus. Minister Kovalchuk expressed Belarus’s willingness to host Iraqi athletes and provide support to further enhance their skills and capabilities.