Baku:The official opening ceremony of the 21st Men’s and 12th Women’s World Fire and Rescue Sport Championships has taken place in Baku. The event was organized by the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers, with attendance from numerous dignitaries and guests.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the ceremony was attended by the Minister of Emergency Situations of Azerbaijan, Colonel General Kamaladdin Heydarov, along with the President of the International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers, Aleksandr Chupriyan. Other notable attendees included the Minister of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation, Colonel General Aleksandr Kurenkov, and the Minister of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus, Major General of Internal Service Vadim Sinyavsky. Delegations from member countries of the federation, competition judges, and local and foreign guests were also present.

The event commenced with a parade of judges and teams from participating countries, followed by the presentation of the State Flag of Azerbaijan and the federation’s flag. The National Anthem of Azerbaijan and the federation’s anthem were played during the ceremony. Minister Heydarov delivered the opening speech, highlighting Azerbaijan’s achievements as a sporting nation and the significance of hosting such prestigious events.

Minister Heydarov emphasized the championship’s role in promoting fire and rescue sports and strengthening international professional ties. He expressed confidence in the competitions fostering high sporting standards and mutual respect among participants. Speeches were also given by the President of the International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers, Aleksandr Chupriyan, Federation Director Andrey Kalinin, and Chief Judge Aleksandr Klitonchik, who praised the organization and wished success to the participants.

The championships were officially declared open, with the ceremony featuring videos on Azerbaijan’s history and culture, as well as an artistic program of national music and dance. The event proceeded with the men’s semifinals and finals and the women’s finals in the hook ladder climbing event.