Sports contribute to strengthening mutual relations: President Paudel

Kathmandu, June 3: President Ramchandra Paudel has said that sports contributes significantly to strengthening mutual friendship, fraternity and relations, and to the spirit of national unity and expanding international relations.     

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 16th President's Running Shield Competition organized by the National Sports Council today, President Paudel said that sports in the present era are not limited to competition, profession, fame and identity. "It is a powerful means of all-round development of an individual. And it is also the foundation and basis of discipline, cooperation, leadership, confidence and national unity."     

Stating that sports have become an attractive profession and a means of enhancing the pride, prestige and glory of the nation, he said keeping in mind the special importance and characteristics of sports, the government should formulate special policies and programs to attract and encourage sports by increasing sports competitions, programs and activities right from the school level along with quality education.     

As the craze for sports is growing in the country the state should give priority to it to assure that those involved it can see a future in sports. "Although winning and losing are natural aspects of sports, participation in sports competitions, continuous practice and effort, learning and experience are important achievements too," the President said.(RSS)