Abu dhabi: The Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series is set to commence on 29-30 August as Suzhou, China, welcomes 24 of Asia's top men's and women's national teams for the opening round of the region's prominent annual rugby sevens competition.
According to Emirates News Agency, Qais Al Dhalai, President of Asia Rugby, undertook an official visit to Beijing following an invitation from Wang Yun, President of the Chinese Rugby Football Association. The visit aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation and evaluating China's readiness to host several continental championships and events shortly.
During his visit, Al Dhalai engaged with Tong Lixin, Deputy Minister of General Administration of Sport of China and Vice President of the Chinese Olympic Committee, at the Ministry of Sport and the Chinese Olympic Committee headquarters in Beijing. Their discussions focused on developing sports, particularly rugby, and preparing for the rugby competitions at the upcoming Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, this October.
Both parties underscored the significance of reinforcing collaboration between Asia Rugby and the Chinese Rugby Football Association. They aim to broaden the participation base and elevate competition levels, recognizing China's increasing commitment to rugby development across its provinces and major cities.
The visit also included a coordination meeting with the Board of Directors of the Chinese Rugby Football Association in Beijing. Attendees included Wang Yun, Jin Hongwen, and Benjamin van Rooyen. The meeting reviewed the final preparations for hosting the first leg of the Emirates Asia Rugby Sevens Series. Discussions centered on organizational and technical aspects to ensure the event aligns with Asia Rugby's highest standards.
Al Dhalai emphasized Asia Rugby's commitment to expanding tournament hosting across the continent, highlighting China as a key supporter of Asian rugby growth, attributed to its organizational prowess and expanding player base.
He also announced that Asia Rugby has accorded China priority to host the continent's second elite match officials camp. This camp, part of the referee development program sponsored by Emirates, will take place in either Shanghai or Guangzhou next month, bringing together Asia's top referees.
Additionally, China is set to host the Asia Rugby U18 Sevens Championship in October, alongside the Emirates Asia Rugby Sevens Series in August. This underscores the confidence in China's capabilities and the Chinese Rugby Football Association's growing reputation as a premier destination for major continental championships.