NOC Kosovo hosts European Sport Platform 2024
The Kosovo Olympic Committee (KOC) proudly hosted the 7th edition of the European Sport Platform (ESP) 2024 in Pristina, Kosovo, from 21 to 23 November.
The event commenced with a session dedicated to the “Sport as a Value” project on the first day. Over the subsequent two days, the ESP 2024 unfolded under the theme, “Values in Sport: Building Bridges in a United Europe.”
Throughout the three-day event, a diverse range of speakers and panellists addressed a variety of critical topics, including the role of values in sport, grassroots sports development, gender equality, safeguarding in sport, and integrity in sports.
Key moments included a presentation by Besim Aliti, Secretary General of the Kosovo National Olympic Committee (NOC), who outlined the vision for the Pristina 2030 Mediterranean Games. Additionally, Albanian football legend Lorik Cana delivered a keynote address, showcasing the impactful initiatives of his foundation, Lorik Cana 5, which focuses on advancing grassroots sports.
The platform was officially opened by Stefan Bergh, President of the European Non-Governmental Sports Organization (ENGSO), who expressed profound appreciation for the exceptional organization and warm hospitality extended by the Kosovo Olympic Committee.
“Sport possesses remarkable power to unite communities, forge connections, and promote values that foster peace, solidarity, and friendship. This year’s European Sport Platform, organized by the Kosovo Olympic Committee, represents a unique opportunity to build bridges for those committed to strengthening grassroots sports across Europe. I extend my sincere thanks to our hosts and the broader European sports community for making this inspiring event a reality,” said Bergh.
In his remarks, Ismet Krasniqi, President of the Kosovo NOC, welcomed the many representatives from European sports organizations, including National Olympic Committees, as well as participants from Kosovo. He emphasized the significance of hosting the platform in Kosovo.
“Here in Kosovo, sport has played a pivotal role in shaping our national identity on the global stage. Our athletes, who proudly represent this nation, exemplify how sport can unite and inspire communities, not only within our borders but across Europe and the world. The European Sport Platform provides a unique opportunity to unite and strengthen the grassroots sports movement—a movement that touches millions of lives, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose,” remarked Krasniqi.
On behalf of the Government of Kosovo, Iber Alaj, Director of the Department of Sports at the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting sports and the development of grassroots initiatives. “We will make Europe stronger and more united through the language of sport,” he stated.
At the conclusion of the event, the ENGSO flag was officially handed over by Kosovo NOC President Ismet Krasniqi to Gerard Esteva, President of the Federation of the Sports Union of Catalonia, marking Barcelona, Spain, as the next host city for the European Sport Platform.
