Sanya (China), April 25 (QNA) - President of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), Gianni Merlo of Italy praised the efforts of HE President of both the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Qatar Olympic Committee, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani in strengthening Asia's role on the international sporting scene.

In a special interview with the media delegation accompanying team Qatar to the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026, Merlo said that HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani possesses a clear vision and an effective ability to unify the continent amid current challenges, stressing that his leadership comes at a highly important time that necessitates redefining the role of sport across Asia.

The President of AIPS added that His Excellency's assumption of the OCA's presidency came amid exceptional circumstances, with sporting events coinciding with regional and international developments that impose on sports functions that go beyond competition.

Leadership during this period is not limited to managing tournaments, rather requires having a strategic vision capable of unifying the countries of Asia and enhancing their joint cooperation, thus, achieving long-term sporting stability, said Merlo.

He highlighted that within a short period, Qatar has succeeded in establishing its position as one of the leading hubs for hosting major sporting events.

This transformation was not a coincidence, instead it was the result of a clear vision and continuous investment in infrastructure and sporting facilities, alongside developing organizational and media capabilities, the President of AIPS added, emphasizing that Qatar today does not merely host events, but contributes to advancing the global sports system by raising the bar higher and setting a successful example.

On Qatar's chances of hosting the Olympic Games, Merlo said that the country meets most of the fundamental requirements, including advanced sports facilities, a modern transport network, and a sophisticated media infrastructure, noting that its recent global event hosting record demonstrates Qatar's success in this regard, something that enhances its chances in achieving this goal in the future.

Merlo contrasted the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 with the upcoming edition to be held in three countries, stressing the significant difference between both events in terms of organization and overall experience.

An integrated and unique model made Qatar 2022 stand out, he said, noting that stadiums' proximity from one another helped create an exceptional experience for both fans and media professionals, whereas this upcoming edition will pose major logistical challenges, particularly in terms of transportation and media coverage.

On another note, the AIPS Sport Media Awards have become a prominent international platform that reflects the advancement of sport media, Merlo said, affirming that the partnership with Qatar has been a key factor in the award's success, providing a supportive environment for expanding the award and its global reach.

The President of AIPS said that the current period is an important turning point in the trajectory of Asian and world sport and that the State of Qatar with its expertise and capabilities is well positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sport internationally.

He noted that the Asian continent, under the leadership of the OCA, has a genuine opportunity to strengthen its global role. (QNA)