Today, the first day of the team archery competition within the framework of the III CIS Games concluded at the city stadium in Khankendi.
Idman.biz reports that Farid Gayibov, the Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, who attended the event, answered journalists' questions. He shared his thoughts on the performance of Azerbaijani athletes and the significance of holding competitions across various regions of the country.
The minister noted that the III CIS Games have been ongoing for four days now, and the results are very encouraging:
"Our athletes are successfully competing in various sports. For example, in previous Games we did not win any medals in swimming, but this time we have already secured two gold medals. This demonstrates the effective work of our federations and the progress of sports development. Our main goal is to prepare young athletes to reach the senior level and represent our country successfully in international competitions."
Farid Gayibov especially emphasized that the III CIS Games are being held in seven regions of Azerbaijan, including Khankendi, which marks an important step toward expanding the country’s sports infrastructure and organizational capacity:
"Previously, our country hosted three major multi-sport events — the first European Games in 2015, the Islamic Solidarity Games in 2017, and the European Youth Olympic Festival in 2019. All of these took place in Baku. However, this time, following the initiative and decision of the Mister President, the III CIS Games are held in seven different regions of Azerbaijan, including Khankendi. This provides a new push to the development of sports in the regions and expands opportunities to work with local specialists and involve volunteers. About 3,000 volunteers and 1,000 staff members are participating in organizing the competitions, which is valuable experience."
Speaking about the competitions in Khankendi, the minister said:
"Organizing international competitions in Khankendi is both an honor and a great responsibility for us. The first large-scale football match was held here in December 2023, after which the decision was made to renovate the stadium. Today, this stadium is hosting international competitions, serving as a symbol of the region’s recovery and revival of life. We receive very positive feedback from representatives of participating countries regarding the facilities and accommodation."
Currently, Azerbaijan ranks second in the medal standings. The minister emphasized that this success is the result of serious preparation by athletes, federations, and effective organization:
"In previous CIS Games, our country placed fourth overall. Now we are in second place, and we hope to maintain this position until the end of the competitions. Our athletes demonstrate great determination and responsibility competing on home ground, and we fully believe in their success."
