Republic of Mauritius- Government committed to ensure IOIG 2019 are conducted in most favourable conditions

The Minister was speaking at the opening ceremony of the third annual meeting of the International Council of the IOIG – ‘Conseil International des Jeux des Iles de l’Océan Indien’ (CIJ).  The Comorian Minister of Youth and Sports, Ms Ladaenti Houmadi, along with some 18 official delegates of participating Island States, are attending the two-day meeting.

In his address, Minister Toussaint elaborated on the agenda of the annual meeting of the CIJ, which includes providing a status report on the holding of the IOIG 2019 and the re-admission of Sri Lanka within the CIJ and its participation in this 10^th edition of the IOIG.  He expressed conviction as regards the progress achieved for the ongoing preparations and lauded the relentless efforts and contribution of all stakeholders in this endeavour.

On that note, Minister Toussaint underpinned the need for participating Island States to harness joint efforts and provide their inputs so as to organise the 2019 Games in the best conditions possible for both local and international sportspersons.The core objective of Government, stated the Minister, is the provision of proper sports infrastructure to both local and international athletes for an optimum performance in the spirit of the Olympics.  This major regional event, Mr Toussaint underscored, is an opportune time to strengthen friendship and mutual understanding among Island States of the Indian Ocean. 

According to the Minister, it is essential for participating Island States to stand strong together and devise a strategy and model of success to ensure that the IOIG effectively upholds the Olympic values and garner positive international attention.  The consensus and synergy among sportspersons and delegates will enable Mauritius to respond effectively to challenges in organising the 2019 IOIG and will reflect positively on the event, he said.