Media Releases

09 Aug 2008 - Australia chairs International Sport Summit

BEIJING, CHINA - Sport Ministers from the Commonwealth of nations gathered today in Beijing at a meeting chaired by Australian Minister for Sport, Kate Ellis.

The 4th meeting of Commonwealth sport ministers examined the latest developments in sport and explored ways to work together to develop initiatives to improve society through sport.

"The meeting provided an important opportunity for the Commonwealth nations to harness the excitement and energy of the Olympic Games and utilise sport to bring about positive outcomes in health, education and community wellbeing," Ms Ellis said.

"Sport can be used as a mechanism for social change and economic advancement, particularly in developing nations."

"The meeting provided an excellent opportunity for Commonwealth countries to show leadership and assist each other tackle common issues through sport."

Ministers examined projects in Commonwealth countries where sport has been used to promote positive change in disadvantaged communities including;

• the healthy benefits of sport in the Caribbean;
• of inclusive community sports projects in India;
• an Australian program to boost participation in sport in South Africa; and
• initiatives in sport and education in the UK.

India also updated the meeting on preparations for the Commonwealth Youth Games to be held in Pune, India, in October and the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in 2010.

Commonwealth Sports Ministers' meetings are held every two years at the time of the Commonwealth Games and the Summer Olympic Games.

Over a hundred sports ministers and delegates from the Commonwealth attended the meeting.