The holding of the Mediterranean Games in Kosovo in 2030 represents an event of historic proportions, which transcends the boundaries of the sports arena to become an important diplomatic and political platform for the country. This event, with a tradition of over 50 years, is not only an opportunity to prove sports skills, but also a golden chance for the international affirmation of the state of Kosovo.
The President of the Judo Federation, Agron Kuka, in an interview for KosovaPress, states that in the sports field, the Mediterranean Games are considered one of the most prestigious competitions, especially in the sport of judo.
Kuka informs that world powers such as France, Italy, Spain, Turkey and Egypt participate in this discipline, making the competition extremely strong.
The representation of Kosovo at this level is a proof of the development of sports in the country.
The Mediterranean Games are known to be a really important competition, considering that the tradition of the Mediterranean Games is over 50 years old. For the sport of judo, it is one of the most important competitions in the competition calendar held every four years. It should be noted that in the Mediterranean Games, the sport of judo is participated by several countries that really prioritize the sport of judo and it is a sport with tradition, such as the countries of France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt. Most of the countries participating in the Mediterranean Games in the sport of judo have really developed the sport of judo. And for us as a federation and as a new country, participation in the Mediterranean Games is really important”, says Kuka first.
However, the real importance of this event lies in its diplomatic dimension. It is expected that 24 of the 26 member states will participate in the games organized in Kosovo. Among them, a significant number are countries that have not yet recognized Kosovo’s independence. The participation of delegations from these countries offers a unique opportunity to present Kosovo as a new, functional state capable of organizing major international events.
“26 countries have the opportunity to participate, I believe that somewhere around 24 will participate. I do not believe that Serbia will participate. But, the other countries and most of the countries that are participating in these games are also countries that have not recognized the independence of Kosovo. So, apart from the sports side, this is also important from a diplomatic and political point of view, for the countries that have not recognized us, to come here and see the state of Kosovo, which is one of the states of the young woman who deserves respect and recognition from the respective countries”, continued Kuka.
The head of the Judo Federation revealed to KosovaPress that in these games, in 2030, new judokas will appear, and not only those who are currently at their peak.
“I believe that some of these athletes who are currently active will be there. But, of course, there will also be new athletes, knowing that the competition will be for another four years. Generations will certainly change, but surely some of the active athletes who are now will be participants in the Mediterranean Games that will be held in Kosovo,” Kuka announced.
Kuka adds that for local athletes, holding the Mediterranean Games at home is an additional motivation. The opportunity to race in front of their home crowd and represent the country at such a big event is a dream come true.
The success of Kosovo in the past editions has been extraordinary. Judo and boxing have brought medals to Kosovo in the last two editions of the Mediterranean Games, in Tarragona and Algeria, collecting a total of 10 medals. This fact underlines not only the potential of Kosovar athletes, but also the strategic importance of this sport for the image of the country. /Kosovapress/
