Lausanne, Switzerland, August 17, 2020: Following the devastating explosion in Beirut on August 4, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Foundation has donated USD 30,000 to the Lebanese Table Tennis Federation.
The decision was announced on August 14 and followed an extraordinary meeting of the ITTF Foundation’s Governing Board.
ITTF President Thomas Weikert said: “We know that we can’t stop the crisis just by sending money, but we are convinced that table tennis can help at a second stage.
“As we did on other occasions in the past, our sport is able to reknit social networks and to help alleviate pain and trauma. We feel sympathy towards Lebanon, one of our ITTF family members, and we are committed to doing whatever is in our hands to provide support where possible.”
ITTF Deputy President and President of the Arab Table Tennis Union, Khalil Al-Mohannadi, added:
“I feel for our Lebanese brothers and sisters. At this moment in history, having also been hit severely by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to stay united in these difficult times.
“I am grateful to see that the ITTF Foundation has reacted so swiftly to this human crisis with its Emergency Relief Fund. The ITTF is able to offer support quickly when needed.” In the same meeting, Her Royal Highness Princess Zeina Rashid of Jordan was welcomed to her new role on the ITTF Foundation’s Governing Board.
“The tragedy that has befallen our region’s beloved Beirut and Lebanon’s resolute and determined people has shocked us all,” said Princess Zeina.
“I am humbled and proud to be part of an institution that has responded swiftly to provide much-needed aid at this difficult time. I hope that the ITTF Foundation’s prompt action will encourage other like-minded and compassionate organisations to follow this example.”