Astana, Kazakhstan, September 1, 2026: A reception dedicated to the upcoming 20th Asian Games and 5th Asian Para Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 was held at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador to Kazakhstan.
Representatives of the National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan, Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, National Paralympic Committee of Kazakhstan, sports federations and athletes representing the country at the Asian Games from September 19 to October 4 attended the event.
The Japanese Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Yasumasa Iijima, addressed the Kazakh athletes and wished them success in the competitions. He noted the special significance of the Asian Games for Japan. In 2026, the country will host the continent’s largest multi-sport event for the third time in history – having previously been held in Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994.
“Over the past few years, Kazakhstan has achieved significant success in international competitions, including the Olympic Games. At the same time, the country has demonstrated impressive achievements in culture and science. All of this demonstrates the potential of a young and dynamically developing Kazakhstan. And you, athletes, are an important part of this success. I wish the Kazakhstan team every success,” Ambassador Iijima remarked.
The Kazakhstan NOC thanked the Japanese side for their attention to the Kazakh team ahead of the Asian Games. The importance of sport in strengthening friendly relations and developing cooperation between Kazakhstan and Japan was also noted.
Around 560 athletes are expected to represent Kazakhstan at the 20th Asian Games. The 5th Asian Para Games will be held from October 18 to 24.