Speaking at the conference, Mr. Nguyen Hong Minh emphasized that over the years, China has maintained substantive cooperation programs with ASEAN, through exchanges, experience sharing and policy coordination in the field of physical education and sports.
The conference was co-chaired by Mr. Nguyen Hong Minh, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Sports Authority and Ms. Wang Xiao Yin, Coordinator of the Foreign Affairs Department (General Administration of Sports of China)
Activities such as the China-ASEAN International Sports Science Conference, the ASEAN-China Women's Wushu Championships and the CAITA Road Car Parade have become vivid evidence of the spirit of open and close cooperation between the two sides. Not only do they have sporting significance, they are also "cultural bridges" that foster understanding, trust and friendship between peoples of different countries.
Notably, community events such as the China-ASEAN SUP-Kayak Championship or the Regional Traditional Sports Festival have spread the spirit of “sports for all” – where sports are seen not only as physical exercise, but also as a tool to unite society and improve the quality of life.
According to Ms. Wang Xiao Yin, since the establishment of ASEAN-China dialogue relations in 1991, the two sides have achieved many important progresses, especially after upgrading to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. In that broad picture of cooperation, sports is considered a soft pillar to help foster friendship, contributing to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The 4th SOMS + China aims to advance ASEAN–China collaboration in sports to new levels, contributing to the overall development of sports in the ASEAN region. Both co-chairs reaffirmed their shared commitment to partnership, mutual respect, and inclusiveness — underscoring that sports not only represent a specialized area of cooperation but also serve as a powerful means to promote peace, friendship, and regional solidarity.
Key Cooperation Initiatives and Shared Goals
Delegates reviewed progress achieved since the 3rd SOMS + China in 2024 and discussed the implementation of joint action plans. A key highlight was the project “Exchange and Revitalization of ASEAN–China Traditional Sports and Games as Part of Intangible Cultural Heritage,” which seeks to preserve and promote traditional cultural values while fostering greater understanding among the younger generations of ASEAN and China.
One of the highlights of bilateral cooperation is the “ASEAN Sports Zones” initiative, a model considered a symbol of regional cohesion through community sports.
Phase I (2022–2023) implemented in Cambodia and Indonesia has had a positive effect, creating friendly and accessible sports spaces for all. Phase II (2024–2025) is being expanded to Laos, Myanmar and Thailand with technical support from China. In Laos, Anouvong Park in Vientiane will be inaugurated in late 2025, while in Myanmar, the project is restarted for 2026 after a delay due to natural disasters.
Delegates reaffirmed that ASEAN–China sports cooperation is an integral part of realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which envisions a dynamic, innovative, and sustainable region.
HY