HH Shaikh Khalid to patronise 19th Gulf Disability Society Forum

Manama, (BNA): Under the patronage of HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairmn of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of Bahrain Athletic Association and Honorary President of Bahrain Sports Federation for Disabilities, the Gulf Disability Society will organise its 19th scientific forum for people with disabilities under the theme “#disabilities_sports_challenge_and_ambition on April 9-11. HH Shaikh Khalid said: “Our patronage of the Gulf Forum comes from our constant concern to support our brothers and sisters with disabilities in all fields through the initiatives we direct to be launched. This truly contributes to providing the suitable environment to improve their skills and rehabilitate them to be integrated and participate in the development process in GCC states.” HH Shaikh Khalid continued: “There is no doubt that organising the forum with a focus on sports for the disabled proves the key role played by sports in enhancing their health and social status, and granting them the opportunity to show their capabilities and capacities in this field.” HH also underlined the remarkable experience of the Kingdom of Bahrain in supporting athletes with disabilities, resulting in the achievement of many advanced positions in different intercontinental and international sports events and championships. On his part, HE Shaikh Duaij bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Honorary President of the Gulf Disability Society, said: “We are proud of the generous patronage of HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa to this forum, as HH maintains a strong bond with sports and athletes, in addition to the numerous initiatives launched by HH that has left a positive impact on people with disabilities.” HE Shaikh Duaij emphasised that the forum seeks to achieve a set of goals that include highlighting the importance of performing sports for people with disabilities, accurate and effective exercises for them, and shedding light on the roles played by the different institutions in encouraging sports culture among this category and overcoming challenges and obstacles. It is worth mentioning that the forum, since it was launched in the year 2001, has successfully achieved several goals for people with disabilities in GCC states. The forum annually hosts people with disabilities and their family members along with decision-makers, government officials, civil society leaders, experts, academics and those working in the field of caring for the disabled. The three-day event will include open talks, competitions and other activities that concern people with disabilities, their family members and care centres.