Winning the right to host the 2013 Laser World Championships is another sporting achievement for the Sultanate, and follows on the heels of the country’s successful bid for this year’s Beach Handball World Championship.

We congratulate the governing bodies of these sports for their hard work and convincing presentations that won the vote of confidence at the international level, allowing the two events to be hosted at Musannah Sports City.

These successful campaigns also demonstrate Oman’s capabilities to stage such major sports events, and the increasing recognition by international bodies of the country’s expertise in this direction. We recall the hugely successful Asian Beach Games which were held in 2010, and which turned the international spotlight on the Sultanate, emphasising the fact that we indeed have the knowledge, expertise and wherewithal to manage such competitions.

The Beach Handball World Championship, which kicks off in July, and the Laser World Championship, which sets sail late next year, will add to the wealth of experience gained by our sports organisers in managing such global events.

The Sultanate realises the immense value of staging international sports competitions: tourism gets a boost thereby increasing economic activity, the youth of the country are inspired by the presence of the world’s leading players and the country, at large, enhances its position as a sports destination.

Besides, as is well known, sport helps to build bridges of friendship between nations and cultures. Where the Sultanate is concerned, fostering goodwill and understanding among peoples of the world is a goal which is dear to the country.

It is in line with its stated policy targets of nourishing relationships, fostering peace and settling disputes through dialogue. We realise that sport is a practical and effective way to reach out to people across countries, particularly during these troubling times when the world is wracked by disputes and violence.

With its ancient maritime legacy, Oman is an ideal host for the Laser World Championship. As HE Rashad Al Hinai, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Sports Affairs, pointed out, securing such a major sporting event represented a proud moment for Oman.

“Sailing has been a big part of our heritage over the past centuries and has continued to progress till today. Oman Sail has played a crucial role in developing sailing in the country and bringing the Laser World Championships to Oman.” Having hosted the Asian Beach Games, Musannah Sports City is well equipped to cope with the requirements of the sailing as well as handball events. Besides, availability of local expertise will ensure that the two championships go off without a hitch.

These major events will also inspire the country’s youth, particularly those who are involved in sailing and handball, to work hard in order to make a mark on the global stage. Since sports helps to build healthy youth, the Sultanate realises the key role the youth play in building a strong nation and a stable Omani society. We praise the efforts of our sports officials in winning the right to host important international events, and hope for their success.