Rome, August 25 (LaPresse) – “I believe it would be a further step backward regarding the role of sport, which must unite rather than divide. Russia? That was a much more violent and aggressive act, which impacted the sovereignty of a nation that needed to be supported, sustained, and defended.” This was stated by the Minister for Sport and Youth, Andrea Abodi, on the sidelines of his speech at the Rimini Meeting, in response to the proposal to exclude Israeli athletes from international sports competitions.
“I especially think about the possibility—which I hope can be realized—that two peoples and two states, which currently seems partially compromised, might instead find conditions to fully restore civility for everyone, without distinction. It would be a mistake to see this from the perspective of opposition, because I believe no one can accept double standards or an asymmetry of human feelings,” the minister added.
“The Government’s position has already been clearly and promptly expressed by the Prime Minister and also by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, so I hope that all good wishes, including criticism of recent events, can lead to a change in circumstances,” concluded Abodi.
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