The Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) on Thursday virtually held its 40th Executive Board meeting, bringing together members from across the region to review progress, share updates, and discuss plans for upcoming events.
Opening the meeting, APC President Majid Rashed said: “It’s the 40th Executive Board meeting. Our business is sport, and our duty is to provide the best possible environment to ensure that our athletes can continue their training and preparation for major events, including the Asian Para Games. We use sport to promote peace, tolerance, and inclusion, and to help build communities across Asia that are equal and welcoming for persons with disabilities.
“As we begin today’s meeting, it is important that we reflect on our collective progress, strengthen our collaboration, and continue working closely to advance Para sport across the region. The commitment of our members and partners remains key to achieving our shared goals.”
Among the various topics discussed, the success report on the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games was a major highlight. The Games, which saw around 1,500 athletes from 35 countries compete, were notable not only for their scale but also for performance, with 25 records broken, including nine world records and 16 Asian records – an encouraging sign of the growing standard of youth Para sport in Asia.
Reports were also presented from the future Games organisers including the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games. Organisers (AINAGOC) shared updates on venue readiness, accommodation arrangements, and promotional efforts as they continue to build momentum towards the Games.
Looking ahead, organisers of the Riyadh 2034 Asian Para Games presented their plans, including the development of the venues. There was also discussion around a possible adjustment to the event timeline following a request from the International Olympic Committee to shift the schedule by one year.
The Board also reflected on performances at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, where Asian nations delivered strong results. Four of the six participating Asian NPCs secured medals, with China leading the way with an impressive total of 44 medals, underlining the region’s growing strength in winter Para sports.
Governance matters were also discussed, including clarification on constitutional provisions related to Executive Board membership.
The Board also confirmed that it has received formal expressions of interest from potential hosts for the 2027 APC Conference and General Assembly.
Further updates were shared from the Standing Committees and sub-regions with the discussions highlighting the continued efforts being made to develop Para sport across Asia at all levels.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to building on this progress and continuing to create more opportunities for athletes across the region, both on and off the field of play.
