President of the International Federation Meets Officials of the National Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation; Emphasis on the Global Development of Iran’s Traditional Sport

According to the Public Relations Office of the International Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation, the President of the International Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation, Dr. Mohsen Mehralizadeh, accompanied by Ms. Mitra Rouhi, Secretary General of the International Federation, and their delegation, visited the National Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation. During the visit, they met with Mehrali Barancheshmeh, President of the National Federation, along with a number of officials and members of various committees.

The meeting was held with the objective of strengthening international cooperation and expressing appreciation for the National Federation's outstanding organization of the Asian Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Championships in Urmia. Among those present were Sabzevari, Vice President of the National Federation; Masoud Maleki, Secretary General of the National Federation; Nejatmehr, Chairman of the Technical Committee of the International Federation; and Nafarzadeh, Chairman of the International Affairs Committee.

At the beginning of the meeting, Mehrali Barancheshmeh welcomed the President of the International Federation and his delegation. He presented a report on the activities and achievements of the National Federation, as well as the successful organization of the Asian Championships in Urmia, and expressed his appreciation for the support and cooperation of the International Federation.

Dr. Mohsen Mehralizadeh, President of the International Federation, praised the excellent organization of the Urmia Championships, stating:

"The successful organization of these competitions is a source of great pride. I am proud not only as the President of the International Federation but also as an Iranian. At a time when some seek to present an inaccurate image of Iran, your efforts have demonstrated the true culture, hospitality, and capabilities of our country."

He emphasized the importance of expanding Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani worldwide, adding:

"The various committees should hold more regular meetings to accelerate the global development of this sport. Iran is the birthplace and foundation of Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani, and it deserves to host the World Championships periodically, serving as a model for other countries. The organization and discipline of the Urmia Championships deserve full marks."

Later, Ms. Mitra Rouhi, Secretary General of the International Federation, expressed her appreciation for the National Federation's efforts and excellent hosting, saying:

"I sincerely thank all the officials and organizers of the National Federation, especially those who worked tirelessly to organize the Asian Championships. Your systematic planning and investment in the education and training of coaches and referees demonstrate a professional and forward-looking approach. I hope that through continued cooperation, we can create greater opportunities for young people around the world to participate in this authentic Iranian sport."

Masoud Maleki, Secretary General of the National Federation, also highlighted the Federation's modern approach to managing and developing the sport:

"Within the National Federation, we have worked to simplify and clarify our rules and regulations so that they are accessible to everyone. Utilizing modern technologies such as artificial intelligence in planning and conducting specialized meetings can contribute significantly to the modern development of this sport. While preserving our traditional values, we must also present Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani to the international community in a modern and attractive manner."

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation between the International Federation and the National Federation. The proposal for Iran to host the World Championships was also placed on the agenda as one of the serious options for future consideration.

The International Federation also honored the President of the National Federation and its executive staff in recognition of their outstanding efforts and successful organization of the Asian Championships.