European Judo Championships 2016 opened in Kazan

(Kazan City KZN.RU, April 22). In Kazan multifunctional sports and concert complex "Tatneft Arena" European Judo Championships 2016 opened. The opening ceremony was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin. In his welcoming speech he thanked Tatarstan and its capital for the organization of the sports festival.

The President of Russia, who is on a visit to the capital of Tatarstan, greeted the athletes, referees and judo fans. "Special thanks – to Kazan and Tatarstan for the organization of this sporting event. You know what is the sport, love it and know how to organize such large-scale events", - the official website of the Russian President quotes Putin.

The President also stressed that in the Republic of Tatarstan, as well as in Russia as a whole, martial arts are very popular because of the entertainment, the wealth of techniques and philosophy of this martial art, based on the harmony of mind and body. According to Vladimir Putin, the promotion of judo in the country is a large extent to contribute consistently high results of Russian fighters. "We are proud of their skills, waiting for their new victories - both in the individual competition and in the team", - he concluded and wished successful competition to all participants.

Recall that this year's competition, which will last until 24 April, will be attended by 477 athletes from 46 countries, 16 sets of medals will be played. The Russian team includes 28 men and 16 women, including three Olympic champions, 10 honored masters of sports and 17 masters of sports of international class. Athletes represent 22 subjects of the Russian Federation. Championship in Kazan is one of the final stages of qualifying for the summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Earlier Vladimir Putin chaired a meeting of the Presidential Council for the development of physical culture and sports in Kazan.