ONOC and OPC strengthen partnership through MOU signing in the Pacific

The Oceania Paralympic Committee (OPC) and the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aimed at fortifying the relationship between the two organisations.

The landmark agreement is designed to elevate the development of Para sports throughout the Oceania Region, encompassing the 17 member countries of the ONOC. The MOU highlights a commitment to fostering the participation and integration of athletes, coaches, officials, and teams from OPC member nations in the broader spectrum of ONOC activities.

These initiatives include sports development programmes, sports education endeavours, high-performance training opportunities, and the significant legacies of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Through this collaboration, the two organisations will engage in joint efforts to advance the growth and inclusivity of Para sports across the Oceania region. This partnership underscores the shared dedication to creating pathways for athletes of all abilities to excel, compete, and inspire.

Dr Robin Mitchell, President of the Oceania National Olympic Committee, said: “As President of ONOC, I am honoured to embark on this transformative journey alongside the Oceania Paralympic Committee. Our partnership signifies a resolute commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and the timeless Olympic values that unite us all. Together, we embrace the extraordinary potential of Para sports, forging a path where every athlete, regardless of ability, can shine brightly on the global stage of competition and inspiration."

Paul Bird, President of the Oceania Paralympic Committee, said: “We have been developing our partnership with ONOC for the past few years and this MOU further cements our relationship and signals our ongoing commitment to work collaboratively, as we build up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. I am excited by the boundless potential this partnership with ONOC holds for the development of Para sports in Oceania, propelling us towards a thrilling journey of inclusivity, excellence, and unprecedented achievements for our Pacific nations, and making for a more inclusive Oceania to ensure that no one is left behind."

The MOU was signed during the 44th ONOC General Assembly on 26 March, in the presence of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons, National Olympic Committee (NOC) and National Paralympic Committee (NPC) representatives, Regional Sport Organisation Representatives and other dignitaries and guests.