DUSHANBE, 23.05.2025 (NIAT Khovar) – On May 22, Rustam Emomali, President of the Football Federation of Tajikistan, President of the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA), Speaker of the National Assembly of Tajikistan, and Mayor of Dushanbe, took part in and addressed the inaugural ceremony celebrating the first-ever World Football Day at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The UN General Assembly officially designated May 25 as World Football Day by a special resolution on May 7, 2024, following a proposal by Rustam Emomali in his roles as President of both the Football Federation of Tajikistan and CAFA.

In his remarks, Rustam Emomali underscored that the international recognition of World Football Day reflects the sport’s core values — fair play, teamwork, and mutual respect — which align closely with the principles and mission of the United Nations.

He also highlighted the significant progress in football development in Tajikistan under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon. The ongoing implementation of the National Football Development Strategy through 2026 aims to expand youth participation, enhance infrastructure, elevate professional leagues, and train industry specialists nationwide.

The event acknowledged the successes of Tajikistan’s national and youth teams at regional and international levels, as well as the strong collaboration between the Football Federation of Tajikistan and FIFA, particularly in advancing international football development programs.

Rustam Emomali expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Libya for their joint efforts in promoting the initiative, as well as to the co-sponsors of the UN resolution and FIFA President Gianni Infantino for their support and cooperation.

Concluding his speech, Rustam Emomali emphasized that World Football Day serves as a powerful platform to promote sport and advance the United Nations’ goals of peace, unity, and sustainable development. The Football Federation of Tajikistan is committed to working closely with FIFA, the UN, and all stakeholders to foster inclusivity and broaden access to football worldwide.