Maltese Olympic Committee hosts 45th EOC Seminar and Olympic Solidarity Forum

The Maltese Olympic Committee hosted the 45th European Olympic Committees Seminar & Olympic Solidarity Forum, last week.

The event brings together National Olympic Committees (NOCs) from across Europe to engage in an innovative format of dialogue, collaboration, and practical knowledge exchange.

This year’s edition was held in conjunction with Olympic Solidarity, underscoring a shared commitment to strengthening sport and supporting athletes via strategic programmes.

The two-day programme included six workshops covering key themes such as governance, athlete voice and integrity, sustainable development, digital communications, and enhancing NOC operations through innovation.

The decision to award Malta the right to host this year’s Seminar and Forum was confirmed in September 2024, a milestone reflecting Malta’s long-standing commitment to the Olympic Movement and its proven track record in organising international sporting events.

During the opening of the seminar, Maltese Olympic Committee president Julian Pace Bonello emphasised his organisation’s pride at being given the chance to host the event.

“Malta is honoured to host the 45th European Olympic Committees Seminar and Olympic Solidarity Forum,” Pace Bonello said.

“This gathering is not only about sharing best practices, but also about shaping the future of sport – ensuring it continues to inspire, unite and empower young people across borders and generations. We look forward to meaningful dialogue, new friendships, and shared resolve.”

Present for the opening of the Seminar were the European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Culture, Youth and Sport Glenn Micallef, who said:

“Sport in Europe is more than competition. It is a community,” he said.

“It is fairness. It is an opportunity. I believe that European sport must remain close to citizens – rooted in our clubs, in our local communities, and in grassroots programmes.”

In his address, EOC president Spyros Capralos,  who led an Executive Committee meeting a day prior to the seminar’s opening, highlighted the spirit and purpose of the gathering.

“The EOC Seminar has always been more than just a meeting on the calendar,” Capralos said.

“It is a moment for our Family to step outside the formalities of the General Assembly and engage in open, constructive dialogue, and the creation of the right environment for NOCs to exchange experiences, share knowledge, and return home with practical insights that will strengthen their daily work.”

Over the years, Malta has built a solid reputation as a trusted host of international sporting events, having successfully staged the Games of the Small States of Europe in 1993, 2003 and 2023.

Hosting the 45th EOC Seminar & Olympic Solidarity Forum continues this legacy, further establishing Malta as a hub for dialogue, collaboration, and the promotion of Olympic values.

In a statement, the Maltese Olympic Committee thanked SportMalta for its financial assistance through the Sports Tourism Scheme