We are delighted to announce that the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency, hosted the esteemed 18th Asia/Oceania Region Intergovernmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport (AORIM). This significant event was scheduled to take place on June 12-13, 2023, at the prestigious Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It was our privilege to collaborate with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in organizing this important gathering.
15th AORIM was held in 2018 at the Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo and witnessed the participation of 28 countries, representing over 45 member countries in the Asia Oceania region. That successful meeting resulted in numerous policy implementations and collaborations. Over the past few years, many countries in Asia and Oceania have embraced and promoted the Anti-doping movement, despite the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Building upon these achievements, we strive to accomplish even more through regional collaboration and a proactive approach, in full compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code.
By hosting this meeting in Sri Lanka during these challenging economic times, we aim to bolster the country's global image as a safe and welcoming destination while enhancing our international relations. The primary objective of the 18th AORIM is to convene all anti-doping stakeholders from the region, fostering collaboration and improving the implementation of compliant and sustainable programs. Our collective efforts will further strengthen the protection of clean athletes and ensure fair play across all sports.
This Ministerial Meeting will provide a valuable platform for participating Governments to gain insights into the challenges faced within the Asia and Oceania region and to understand the roles and responsibilities of Governments under the Code. Discussions will also encompass WADA's strategic priorities for 2023 and beyond, allowing for informed decision-making and strategic planning.
We are proud to announce the participation of nine Ministers from countries in the Asia Oceania region, along with delegates from over 39 countries. Additionally, 10 distinguished members of WADA, including the President, Vice President, and the CEO, will be in attendance, representing the World Anti-Doping Agency.
We look forward to welcoming esteemed delegates and experts to the 18th AORIM, where fruitful discussions and collaborations will pave the way for a brighter future in the fight against doping in sports.
Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency
Agenda ARIOMM 2023