Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec.15
By Vugar Imanov, Elchin Mehdiyev - Trend:
The newly-elected President of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Ingmar De Vos talked about his further plans on the new post during a press conference in Baku on Dec.14.
During the press conference, De Vos praised the work done by the previous FEI President Princess of Jordan Haya Bint Al Hussein throughout eight years of her presidency, adding that she has done a lot for the FEI.
He said throughout eight years of activity, Haya Bint Al Hussein not only turned FEI into a sports organization, as it also covers other aspects.
"She also created a unique tradition of resolving the issues facing the organization, its development, working out the best sports concepts and their preparation, as well as attracting the media's attention," FEI president said. "I believe we should preserve this heritage. However, at the same time, we face other issues."
He added that the equestrian sport is in competition with other types of sports.
"Certainly, this is one of the main issues," De Vos said. "We should closely cooperate both with the people who are active in the equestrian sports and with those who can give us valuable advice for the organization's development."
"That's to say, we have a great responsibility. By working together, we should even more develop the equestrian sports and turn it into a more global type," he said.
At the invitation of ARAF, Baku hosted FEI General Assembly for the first time on Dec.11-14. The event was attended by 350 representatives of the Federation and distinguished guests from 110 countries, which is a record in the history of the FEI General Assembly.
The General Assembly of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) is one of the key events in the world of equestrian sport. The forum, which brought together representatives of all national equestrian federations, discussed and resolved the most important issues of all equestrian disciplines, funding issues, management, etc.
The 'Mangal Steak House' restaurant in Baku hosted a gala dinner titled 'Welcome to Azerbaijan!' for the participants of the International Equestrian Federation's (FEI) General Assembly, organized by the Equestrian Federation of Azerbaijan (ARAF).
The festive evening guests tasted delicious meals of Azerbaijani national cuisine. They also enjoyed a concert program with the participation of folk music and mugham performers, and dance groups.
Princess of Jordan, Her Royal Highness Haya Bint Al Hussein hosted a cocktail evening for participants of FEI General Assembly at the "Dagustu Park Cafe" in Baku.
The guests also enjoyed tours in Baku, during which they visited the Museum of Carpet, the National Flag Square, Heydar Aliyev Center and "Gala" State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve.
Edited by SI
