Tashkent, February 28, 2025 – The Europe Today: President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, received the President of the International Judo Federation (IJF), Marius Vizer, who is visiting the country in connection with the prestigious Grand Slam international tournament.
The meeting focused on expanding cooperation with the IJF, particularly in enhancing the national judo school and promoting the sport across Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan has been an active participant in the International Judo Federation’s activities, having successfully hosted the World Judo Championships in 2022 and the World Military Judo Championships in 2023. At the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris, Uzbekistan made history as Diyora Keldiyorova secured the nation’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in judo.
During the discussions, Marius Vizer commended Uzbekistan’s nationwide efforts to promote a healthy lifestyle, support various sports, engage youth—especially girls—in athletics, and develop modern, accessible sports infrastructure. The meeting also addressed expanding technical assistance and expert support from the IJF in training athletes, coaches, and referees, as well as implementing an effective talent selection mechanism.
Additionally, the proposal to hold international judo competitions regularly in different regions of Uzbekistan was discussed.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the development of Uzbekistan’s national judo school, President Mirziyoyev awarded Marius Vizer the high state honor – the “Dustlik” (Friendship) Order.
