CONIFA to Hold Football European Championship in Artsakh

Grigori Martirosyan, the State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh, convened an extended meeting of the governmental commission on December 24, where preparations for the upcoming European Football Championship organized by the Confederation of Independent Football Associations (CONIFA) scheduled for June 3-15 next year in Artsakh were discussed.

According to the information service of the Artsakh government, the State Minister emphasized in his opening remarks that this prestigious sporting event will be an excellent opportunity for a large number of foreign tourists and journalists to visit the region, thus all efforts must be made to host and conduct it properly. Martirosyan highlighted the importance of all discussions during the preparation phase, noting that they provide an opportunity to evaluate the work done and appropriately plan future actions.

During the meeting, heads of state departments and representatives from the Artsakh Football Federation presented separate reports. It was noted that in the capital city, as well as in Martakert, Askeran, and Martuni regional centers, active work is currently underway to renovate stadiums and align them with international standards, funded by state and charitable contributions. Organizational tasks related to the event are proceeding according to the established timeline and the technical requirements set by CONIFA. Topics discussed included the preparation of informational materials and promotional video clips for the championship, as well as the provision of hotels and transportation for visitors, along with several other matters.

Suggestions were also made regarding the involvement of international specialized organizations in the development of programs for organizing the event.

During the session, it was also noted that around two dozen football teams have already submitted applications to participate in the championship; however, a draw at the conference of the Confederation of Independent Football Associations planned in Poland at the beginning of the year will determine 12 participating teams.

The State Minister assessed the progress of the work as satisfactory, stating that the commission's activities will continue with the same intensity next year.