Harbin, China, August 10, 2025: Wissam Trkmani, OCA Director of NOC Relations and Development, believes the Asian Figure Skating Youth Camp is an opportunity for the young participants to build life-long friendships across borders.
“This camp is more than just a training event. It is a platform where we are discovering talent, promoting Olympic values, and building friendships that exceed borders,” Trkmani said in his address at Sunday’s opening ceremony for the nine-day camp.
Welcoming the young athletes and coaches, the OCA Director of NOC Relations and Development, said: “Your presence here is a symbol of hope, passion, and unity. You are not only here to grow as skaters, but to grow as individuals, guided by excellence, respect, and friendship.”
Friendships will be forged during the residential camp which Harbin organisers hope is the first of many high-level international exchange programmes in winter sports.
The Harbin Municipal Government and the OCA have come together to make the city an Asian hub for winter sports, and figure skating is the first sport to offer a development programme for the region.
Trkmani added: “Let this journey be filled with learning, new connections, and unforgettable memories. We are confident that the days ahead will inspire you to reach new heights, on and off the ice.”
