India is set to host two significant international gatherings focused on the global fight against doping in sports: the 2nd Formal Meeting of the COP9 Bureau and the 3rd Formal Meeting of the Fund Approval Committee under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport on September 17 and 18. As the Vice-Chairperson of the COP9 Bureau, India is playing a leading role in organizing these high-level events, which will bring together key decision-makers and dignitaries from around the world.

The meetings, hosted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, will see participation from distinguished delegates representing countries such as Azerbaijan, Barbados, Estonia, France, Italy, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, The Netherlands, Türkiye, UAE, and Zambia. Senior officials from UNESCO’s International Convention against Doping in Sport will also attend, contributing to the discussions through both in-person and hybrid formats.

Several high-profile dignitaries are expected to attend in person, including the Minister of Youth and Sport of Azerbaijan, Farid Gayibov, the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports from Türkiye, Safa Koçoglu, and the Deputy Minister for Sport and Youth Affairs from Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz Almasaed.

These meetings will serve as a crucial platform for nations and international organizations to deliberate on key issues related to anti-doping measures, the promotion of fair sports practices, and fostering global collaboration to uphold the principles of integrity in sports. The discussions are expected to further strengthen international efforts to combat doping, ensuring that athletes around the world can compete in a fair and clean environment.