Delivering the report, "The Role of Sport as an Instrument of Socio-Economic Development of Society and Maintenance of Peace," to students of the Diplomatic Academy of Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he told the audience that the UN recognized 2005 as the "Year of Sport." "In connection to this I ask Russia to be especially active this year, and to prepare projects for development of sport."
Mr. Ogi also presented his own project according to which sport all over the world must help the struggle for peace and health. The UN sport programs are being actively implemented in many countries and are successful, Mr. Ogi said.
"We have been introducing sport in the poorest countries," he continued. "Thanks to participating in sport, a hope, a chance to survive emerges in people."
Mr. Ogi is confident that Russia will take an active part in this movement. He expressed hope that UN conference, "Sport and Peace," would be held in Moscow. Mr. Ogi plans to discuss this issue on Friday at the meeting with the chairman of Russia's State Sports Committee, Vyacheslav Fetisov.
