Beijing, May 13 (UNI) International Olympic Committee (IOC) President-elect Kirsty Coventry declared Asia "a central cog in the Olympic Movement" during her keynote speech at the 45th Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) General Assembl.
Addressing delegates from 45 OCA member committees at the Kuwait-based assembly on Monday, the Zimbabwean former swimming champion emphasized Asia's "dynamism, passion, and ambition" in her first formal address since election.
"Asia has always had a special place in the Olympic Movement - and in my heart. You are central to its future," said Coventry, who will succeed Thomas Bach on June 23. Coventry - who will become the first female IOC president and its first leader from outside Europe or North America - pledged to prioritize dialogue with athletes.