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KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Sports (PAS) stated that it would work on a package of measures to continue sports reforms in the foreseeable future. In a press statement, the PAS said that the measures would focus on removing obstacles facing the Kuwaiti sports.

It lauded the cabinet’s statement on Monday which called for continuing reforms of the sports sector to defend Kuwait’s standing in international sports events. PAS voiced its respect of the Olympic Charter which allows qualified athletes to compete as Independent Olympic Athletes (IOA) under the Olympic flag, but it would offer no support to any athlete who partakes in international sports events under any flag other than the national one.

It, however, expressed discontent over the absence of Kuwaiti athletes from the currently held Rio Olympic Games due to the International Olympic Committee’s decision to ban Kuwait participation in international events. It emphasized the fairness of the Kuwaiti sports cause and the right of Kuwaiti athlete to play under the flag of their country. PAS vowed to do all in power to overcome challenges and develop Kuwaiti sports movement. — KUNA