Tehran, Iran, November 27, 2023: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei met Iranian medallists of the 19th Asian Games and Para-Asian Games and other groups of champions and veterans in Tehran.
The Supreme Leader thanked the athletes and coaches for making the nation happy and said they should be grateful to the God-given blessing of physical activity and strength of determination and will.
Khamenei said: “It is very important for me that you make the nation happy and proud with your colourful medals. Sports figures are role models for many young people and can have a considerable influence on them, so athletes must be careful in this regard.”
He also emphasised that a strong Iran must have a strong sports culture adding that more focus would be placed on developing this aspect further.
Meanwhile, in another development, Iran National Olympic Committee President Mahmoud Khosravi Vafa has appointed Dr. Mohammadali Ghare as NOC President Advisor.
Among the duties of Dr. Ghare will be the implementation of the guidelines of the Supreme Leader that sport for all is the foundation of a champion and the necessity of free physical education at all levels.