In the presence of HE President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) General Congress elected Husain Al Musallam of Kuwait as the new FINA President until 2025, during its meeting on Saturday at the Sheraton Hotel Doha.

HE President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Ahmad Al Sabah, HE Second Vice-President of QOC Dr. Thani bin Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, HE QOC Secretary-General Jassim bin Rashid Al Buainain, FINA President Julio Maglione, President of the International Handball Federation Dr. Hassan Mustafa, President of the Qatar Swimming Association Khalil Al Jaber, FINA members, and representatives of the swimming continental and national federations attended the General Congress.

HE President of QOC Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani welcomed the attendees, expressing his thanks and gratitude to FINA for granting Qatar to host the General Congress.

"This is the world we are all living in at the moment and we must continue to take every precaution to protect our health and the health of those around us. But as you, at FINA, are showing, this does not mean we have to stand still," HE President of QOC said.

"There is still a lot of excellent work we can do and I am sure the decisions you take today will contribute to the future development of your sport."

"Of course, this is a particularly important meeting as you elect your new President, Vice Presidents, and Bureau members. We wish all those standing the very best of luck."

"Current President Julio Maglione who has served FINA with distinction over the last 12 years. He leaves FINA in a very strong position...And he has given the future leadership an excellent foundation to build from," His Excellency added.

HE President of QOC pointed out, "Qatar is a country that is very passionate about aquatics. We had the honor of hosting the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in 2014. And of course, we are preparing to host the FINA World Aquatics Championships & World Masters Championships in 2023."

"We have no doubt hosting these events will only strengthen our love of your sport and inspire the next generation." 

FINA President Dr. Julio Maglione honored HE QOC President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani in appreciation of the support and efforts of His Excellency and the State of Qatar hosting many FINA events and tournaments.

Also, FINA President honored HE QOC Secretary-General Jassim bin Rashid Al Buainain and President of the Qatar Swimming Association Khalil Al Jaber.

In the opening speech of the General Congress, FINA President Julio Maglione expressed his happiness to be in Doha, which always hosts the FINA family with great hospitality, noting that despite the COVID-19 challenges, everyone is happy to be there.

Maglione congratulated Hussein Al Muslim for his election as the new FINA President. He thanked all the national federations for participating in the General Congress, whether by attendance or via videoconferencing.

Also, President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach said that this meeting comes about 48 days before the Olympic Games, which are being prepared to be held safely for all participants, explaining that holding of the Olympics under the current circumstances is a message to the world to deal with these unprecedented circumstances.

The President of the International Olympic Committee valued the efforts of the FINA, thanking Maglione in his last meeting as chair of FINA for his efforts and work to add value to the game.

HE President of OCA Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad stressed the importance of Qatar hosting the FINA General Congress, noting that it represents an important step for the future of aquatics.

The General Congress ratified the President's report and the decisions issued by the FINA Council and approved the agenda for the meeting and the financial report.

Husain Al Musallam of Kuwait was elected as the new FINA President until 2025 after receiving 302 votes out of 319.

It was also agreed to add four members representing the hosting countries for the upcoming world championships, including the President of the Qatar Swimming Association Khalil Al Jaber.

(QNA)