Sergei Kovalchuk
MINSK, 5 July (BelTA) – More than 20 countries have confirmed they will participate in the 2nd games of the Commonwealth of Independent States (the 2nd CIS Games), BelTA learned from Belarusian Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk.
Prominent athletes gathered outside the Sports Palace in Minsk to push a symbolic button that started a countdown to the 2nd CIS Games, which are scheduled to begin in exactly one month.
According to Sergei Kovalchuk, the 2nd CIS Games will be solemnly opened in Minsk Arena in exactly one month. This year’s competitions will embrace a new format. 11 regions of Belarus will be represented at the games. Guests of Belarus will be able to visit every corner of the country.
The official said that over 20 countries have confirmed their participation in the games. “It is the first time we’ve made these competitions open. In addition to nine CIS states more than ten other countries have expressed their desire to participate in this event,” Sergei Kovalchuk mentioned.
Sergei Kovalchuk remarked that the 2nd CIS Games will take place at 21 sport venues where athletes will compete in 20 sports. “I am convinced that the competitions will proceed swimmingly while our athletes and coaches will demonstrate their fighting spirit and the best performance,” the official said.
While talking to reporters, the Belarusian sports and tourism minister drew attention to young Belarusian athletes: “Our children are very talented. These competitions are very versatile but they are primarily designed to unearth our nearest reserve. We need to see the talents, who will represent our country at international arenas in 3-4 years.”
