Ali Salameh Represents Asian Boxing at 45th OCA General Assembly in Kuwait

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) concluded its 45th General Assembly in Kuwait, bringing together all 45 Asian National Olympic Committees for a pivotal meeting focused on governance, future strategy, and regional cooperation.

This marked a historic moment for Asian Boxing, as it was the first time the new continental body participated in an OCA General Assembly since receiving official recognition. Ali Salameh attended on behalf of Asian Boxing, contributing to discussions on sport development and the future of boxing in the region.

Addressing the Assembly in her first official speech since her election, IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry stated:
“Asia is not just a part of the Olympic community — it is central to its future.”
She emphasized the need to listen, keep athletes at the heart of the Movement, and spotlight Asia’s rising global role, referencing both Olympic legacies and upcoming innovations like the Olympic Esports Games 2027 in Riyadh.

OCA First Vice President Timothy Fok commended Kuwait for its hospitality, thanking the Emir, Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, and the Kuwait Olympic Committee for their support.

The two-day assembly featured reports from OCA’s zonal Vice Presidents, an update from WADA President Witold Banka, and presentations from recent and upcoming hosts, including Hangzhou 2023, Harbin 2025, Bahrain 2025, Aichi-Nagoya 2026, Riyadh 2026, and Doha 2030.

OCA Director General Husain Al Musallam addressed challenges facing future hosts and discussed the Asian Games’ position in the Olympic cycle, affirming that changes to the calendar would not occur before 2034 due to existing contracts.

The Assembly also addressed key priorities such as gender representation—only six of the 45 NOCs currently meet the IOC benchmark of 30% female leadership—as well as efforts to increase digital engagement and youth participation through influencer-led content and emerging sport platforms.