The Myanmar Sports Minister Russia forum saw Union Minister Jeng Phang Naw Taung represent Myanmar at the 13th International Sports Forum in Samara, Russia, from 5–7 November 2025. The minister, who also serves as Chairman of the Myanmar Olympic Committee and Minister for Hotels and Tourism, led the delegation to strengthen international sports cooperation and explore partnerships in athlete development, infrastructure, and training programs.
Ministerial Meetings Strengthen Regional Sports Cooperation
During the Myanmar Sports Minister Russia forum, Minister Naw Taung participated in the First Asian Cooperation Dialogue Ministerial Meeting on Sports, which included representatives from 16 countries. Key topics included reviving traditional national sports, planning future public sports initiatives, and implementing international cooperation projects. Russia’s strategic roadmap for football development up to 2030 was also discussed.
On 5 November, the minister met Russian Deputy Minister for Sports Alexander Nikitian to review the MoU on sports cooperation between Myanmar and Russia. Discussions focused on promoting physical culture, youth athlete exchanges, and collaborative training programs.
The Myanmar minister also met the Mayor of Samara to discuss improving Myanmar’s sports standards and infrastructure, demonstrating the forum’s role as a platform for practical bilateral initiatives.
Expanding Regional Partnerships
In addition to Russian officials, Minister Naw Taung held talks with Belarusian Sports Minister Siarhei Kavalchuk, agreeing to deploy Belarusian coaches in athletics, shooting, canoeing, and kayaking starting in 2026.
Minister Naw Taung also met Kazakhstan’s Minister of Tourism and Sports Yerbol Myrzabosynov, focusing on trainer exchanges to strengthen Myanmar’s boxing and wrestling programs. These collaborations are expected to enhance Myanmar’s performance in regional and international competitions.
Forum Sessions on Technology and Youth Development
On 6 November, the Myanmar delegation attended the plenary session titled “Russia: Country of Sports”, discussing technological innovations in sports and youth athlete development.
They also participated in “Sport for the Future: Winning Together”, emphasizing cross-border cooperation and the application of advanced technology in sports management. Sessions like these help Myanmar integrate modern sports science and digital tools into national training programs.
Closing Events and Return to Myanmar
The delegation concluded their visit by attending the Memorial Parade in Samara on 7 November, celebrating regional sporting achievements. The team returned to Yangon on 9 November, bringing home insights to strengthen Myanmar’s sports policies, training systems, and international partnerships.
Minister Naw Taung’s participation in the Myanmar Sports Minister Russia forum demonstrates Myanmar’s commitment to international collaboration, athlete development, and leveraging global expertise to modernize national sports infrastructure.
Global New Light of Myanmar: Myanmar Union Minister attends 13th International Sports Forum
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