FAI, FCA meet to strengthen cooperation, promote fencing across Asia
New Delhi, Aug 3
President of the Fencing Confederation of Asia Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi met with Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General of the Fencing Association of India to discuss strategic initiatives for the continued development and promotion of fencing across Asia.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the FCA and FAI through the FCA Development Programme, with particular emphasis on referee education, coach development, technical support, and the exchange of expertise among Asian member federations, according to the official communique.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to raising the overall standard of fencing across the continent.
"Both the FCA and FAI expressed their commitment to building stronger partnerships and creating greater opportunities for athletes, coaches, referees, technical officials, and administrators," read a release.
"The Fencing Association of India remains committed to working closely with the Fencing Confederation of Asia and all member federations to support the continued growth and excellence of fencing in India and across the Asian continent," it added.
During the discussions, the FCA leadership congratulated the Fencing Association of India for the outstanding organisation of the 2026 Asian Fencing Championships, held in New Delhi in June 2026.
The successful conduct of the championship, along with India's warm hospitality and professional event management, was highly appreciated and recognised as a benchmark for future continental events.
The meeting also explored opportunities for India to host additional Asian and international fencing competitions in the coming years, further strengthening the country's position as a leading destination for major fencing events.
The discussions concluded with a shared vision of promoting sustainable growth, enhancing knowledge exchange, and further advancing the sport of fencing throughout Asia.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is a step in the right direction, but I hope the focus isn't just on hosting events. We need grassroots development - more academies in smaller cities, proper coaching for our juniors, and better exposure for our athletes. Events are great, but sustainable growth needs investment at the base level.
Appreciate the efforts by FAI, but let's be honest - fencing is still very niche in India. The Asian Championships were well organised, but we need to see more Indian fencers at the top level. Referee education and coach development are good initiatives, but the real test will be in our performance at the next Asian Games and Olympics.
Great to see India getting recognition for hosting the Asian Championships! The infrastructure in Delhi was truly world-class. Looking forward to more such events - this will definitely inspire young athletes to take up fencing. Kudos to the entire FAI team! 👏
As someone who follows fencing from abroad, it's encouraging to see the sport growing in Asia beyond the traditional powerhouses. India's professional approach to hosting events is commendable. The exchange of expertise between federations will only help raise the overall standard of the sport. Good news for fencing!
While the meeting sounds positive, I wish there was more emphasis on making fencing accessible to the common person. The equipment is expensive, and access to training facilities is limited outside metro cities. These discussions should also address how to make the sport more affordable and accessible to aspiring athletes from diverse backgrounds. 🤔
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