Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to arrive today in Kazan, where the international multi-sport tournament Games of the Future will commence its opening ceremonies.
The president revealed his plans to visit the city during the ASI forum "Strong Ideas for New Times," stating, "I am literally heading to Kazan tomorrow to meet with some colleagues. This includes [colleagues from] Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, as well as Kazakhstan."
Presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan Sadyr Zhaparov and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will join the opening festivities of the Games of the Future. Zhaparov's press service announced plans for bilateral meetings with Putin and the head of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, during their time in Kazan.
Last year, President Putin extended invitations to leaders of CIS countries to attend the opening of the innovative Games of the Future in Kazan. Putin described the event as featuring competitions in "new, modern formats, combining dynamic sports disciplines with cybersports." He emphasized the importance of sport and physical culture in humanitarian cooperation.
About the Games of the Future:
The main tournament of the Games of the Future will take place from February 21 to March 3, preceded by preliminary competitions starting on February 19. The tournaments will showcase new disciplines integrating modern technologies, digital environments, and physical activity. Competitions will incorporate the latest advancements in cybersports, robotics, augmented and virtual reality, information technology, and artificial intelligence.
Vladimir Leonov, the Minister of Sports of Tatarstan, disclosed that athletes from 107 countries will participate, with 277 teams registered for the competitions, totaling over 2,000 participants.
The mascot of the inaugural Games of the Future is the Firebird of Peace, designed by students from Tatarstan and St. Petersburg State University. The Firebird of Peace symbolizes a neural network with consciousness, serving as a guide to the world of digital sports.
Preparation for the competition:
Kazan Mayor Ilsur Metshin assured that the city's sports infrastructure, catering, cultural institutions, and hotel accommodations are fully prepared to host guests. Approximately 6,000 participants, guests, and volunteers are expected to attend, with lodging arrangements made in 33 hotels and the Universiade Village.
Metshin highlighted an extensive cultural program comprising about 80 events planned for participants.
Russian Railways confirmed preparedness for transportation services during the Games. Interactive platforms such as Just Dance have been installed at railway stations, and additional flights have been scheduled to accommodate travel between Kazan and the airport during the event period.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS