Vizag to Host BRICS Sports Ministers’ Meeting on August 22-23

Visakhapatnam is set to host the BRICS Sports Ministers’ Meeting-2026 on August 22 and 23, with officials ramping up security and protocol arrangements for the high-profile event. The meeting will include sessions of the Sports Working Group and the Sports Ministers’ conference, according to District Collector Abhishikth Kishore.

Delegates from 11 Nations to Attend

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is organizing the event at the Novotel hotel, with participation expected from Sports Ministers and officials representing 11 countries, including BRICS members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Delegates will arrive on August 21 and 22 and depart on August 24.

Focus on Cooperation and Indigenous Sports

The meeting aims to strengthen cooperation among member nations in areas such as sports development, technology, industry, capacity building, and the promotion of traditional and indigenous sports.

High-Level Participation and Cultural Programmes

Approximately 50 to 70 dignitaries, including India’s Union Sports Minister, are expected to attend. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and Education Minister N. Lokesh are likely to participate in the event’s inaugural and other programmes.

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) will oversee sanitation, while the Tourism Department will organize cultural programmes. A gala dinner is planned at the Novotel on the night of August 22.

Packed Agenda for August 23

On August 23, delegates will participate in a cycle rally at Rama Krishna Beach, visit the glass bridge at Kailasagiri, plant trees, and attend programmes at Thotlakonda and Rushikonda beaches. The Sports Working Group meeting will also take place that morning at the Novotel.

Tight Security and Coordination

Collector Kishore has instructed officials to ensure seamless arrangements, including accommodation at Radisson Blu and Novotel hotels, airport reception, and transport coordination. Departments such as Revenue, Police, GVMC, Tourism, and Sports have been directed to work in unison to execute a detailed minute-to-minute programme.

This international event underscores Visakhapatnam’s growing prominence as a hub for global conferences and its role in fostering international sports collaboration.

Source: The Hindu