V-World Amputee Football
Championship

03 - 08.10.2003, Tashkent, Uzbekistan  

Let's change minefields to football fields!

It is my pleasure indeed to welcome you all – participants, organizers and guests of the championship that is held for the first time on the hospitable soil of Uzbekistan.

I would like to specially emphasize the fact that the people of Uzbekistan are famous for their century old tradition of mercy and tolerance, the tradition that is being widely promoted during the recent years of our independence.

We pay a special attention to promoting sports, encouraging participation of our players in competitions, and organizing international championships, and we deeply realize that today your championship, your sport and your spirit of competitiveness on the sport fields help making peace and mutual respect among nations even stronger.

It has always been a special priority for our nation to hold such tournaments as yours, and we proud of our football players who have twice won gold and silver medals.

It is a pleasure to see that our country is becoming one of the true centers of holding of such competitions – the celebration of kindness and mercy.

Dear participants of the competition!

Despite all hardship and difficulties you have preserved the living force, aspiration for victory and belief in future – features evoking respect and admiration. You are the true example of courage and firmness.

I wish you – the participants of the tournament – sporting success and prosperity. I sincerely hope that your stay in the ancient and hospitable Uzbekistan will be remembered with the most cordial and unforgettable memories in your hearts.