Chad and Russia deepen sports diplomacy with strategic partnership agreement

On Friday, July 25, 2025, Chad’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Maïdé Hamit Lony, hosted Russian Ambassador to Chad, His Excellency Vladimir Sokolenko, for a high-level meeting that sealed a strategic agreement between the two nations.

“This meeting is part of a diplomatic dynamic aimed at stimulating the development of sport, youth training, infrastructure construction, and the strengthening of Chadian sports personnel,” the minister said.

The agreement promises technical and educational partnerships with Russia—leveraging its vast experience to support Chad’s ambitious sports agenda.

Minister Lony reiterated that the collaboration aligns with the vision of President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, who has prioritized youth development and sports excellence as pillars of national progress.

“This cooperation is vital for the empowerment of Chadian youth and the international visibility of our sports sector,” he stated.

Chad views the partnership as a gateway to acquiring modern sports infrastructure, enhancing the training of coaches and sports managers, and creating professional pathways for young people through sports.

Football, described as the nation’s “king sport” and a powerful tool for national cohesion, stands at the heart of this shared vision.

Both countries also acknowledged the unifying and diplomatic potential of sport. They agreed to establish innovative mechanisms for talent identification and development across Chad.

A high-profile sporting event between Chad and Russia is already being planned as part of the broader initiative.

Through this bold move, Chad aims to boost its regional influence, modernize its sports sector, and position itself as an emerging player in global athletics—fully aligned with its national development goals.