Qatar Participates In FIBA Asia Regional Assembly 2025

The State of Qatar, represented by the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF), participated in the midterm general assembly of the FIBA Asia Regional Office for the 2023–2027 term. The meeting was held in Bangalore, India, and brought together basketball leaders from across the continent. Qatar’s participation reflects the country’s continuous effort to remain active in shaping the future of basketball in Asia and to engage with regional and international sports bodies.

The Qatari delegation was headed by Saadoun Sabah Al Kuwari, Secretary General of the Qatar Basketball Federation and Director of National Teams. His leadership at the meeting demonstrated Qatar’s commitment to supporting FIBA’s mission of developing the sport through unity, transparency, and shared learning. The assembly was also attended by several high-profile officials, including His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani, President of FIBA, and Andreas Zagklis, Secretary General of FIBA.

The assembly served as a vital platform for member federations to exchange experiences and discuss key developments in basketball across the Asian region. One of the major highlights was the announcement of a new working group consisting of directors from various departments within the Asia Regional Office. This group aims to coordinate efforts among sub-regions and provide support to overcome organizational and developmental challenges in different parts of Asia.

A detailed review of the audited report and financial statements for 2023 and 2024 was also presented during the meeting. The discussions emphasized accountability and sound financial management as essential elements for the growth of sports federations. The assembly concluded with several breakout sessions that addressed important subjects such as collaboration with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the rising popularity of 3x3 basketball, and national sports development strategies.

In his address, FIBA Asia Secretary General Hagop Khajirian outlined the progress made in developing and strengthening basketball leagues across Asia over the past two years. He reaffirmed that one of FIBA’s core priorities is the creation and growth of international club competitions that offer fair and merit-based opportunities for teams. These competitions aim to encourage talent development and raise the overall quality of Asian basketball.

Khajirian further highlighted that the FIBA Asia Regional Office has embraced a systematic approach to improving both national and regional leagues. The new structure will allow clubs to compete more competitively and eventually qualify for the prestigious FIBA Continental Cup. He also presented an extensive report showcasing the successful programs and initiatives carried out by various departments under the Asian Regional Office, demonstrating how strategic planning has contributed to progress in recent years.

Representing Qatar, Saadoun Sabah Al Kuwari expressed that Qatar’s participation in this assembly reflects the country’s dedication to learning from international experiences and fostering collaboration among Asian basketball federations. He emphasized that the Qatar Basketball Federation is committed to adopting best practices that can enhance local and regional basketball standards. He also reaffirmed Qatar’s willingness to contribute actively to regional sports initiatives that encourage the development of young athletes and coaches.

Qatar’s presence at the assembly reinforced its growing role in regional basketball governance. The country continues to host and participate in significant sports events and conferences, aligning with its vision to become a global sports hub. Through active involvement in FIBA meetings, Qatar aims to share its expertise and learn from others, helping to shape a bright future for basketball in Asia.

The midterm general assembly in Bangalore reflected the collaborative spirit that drives the development of basketball across Asia. For Qatar, this participation was not only a platform to engage with regional peers but also an opportunity to reaffirm its leadership and dedication to sports excellence. As FIBA Asia moves forward with its strategic vision, Qatar’s involvement ensures that it remains an influential voice in the regional sports landscape, helping to create stronger partnerships and elevate basketball to new heights.