The President of the Football Federation of Tajikistan and the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA), Chairman of the Majlisi Milli Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan and Mayor of Dushanbe Rustami Emomali took part and spoke at the solemn ceremony of the first celebration of World Football Day, which took place on May 22 at the UN headquarters in New York, the press service of the city of Dushanbe reports .
In his speech, Rustami Emomali emphasized that the date of May 25 was officially proclaimed World Football Day by the UN General Assembly resolution of May 7, 2024 – an initiative put forward by the Football Federation of Tajikistan and CAFA.


He noted that the key values of football – fair play, teamwork and mutual respect – are consistent with the principles of the UN. Particular attention in the speech was paid to Tajikistan's efforts to develop football under the leadership of the President of the Republic Emomali Rahmon. In particular, the Strategy for the Development of National Football until 2026 is being implemented, aimed at expanding youth football, strengthening infrastructure, raising the level of professional leagues and training specialists.
The successes of the national and youth teams of Tajikistan in the international arena were noted, as well as active cooperation with FIFA within the framework of global programs for the development and popularization of football.


Rustam Emomali expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Libya for supporting the initiative, the countries co-sponsoring the resolution, as well as FIFA President Gianni Infantino for cooperation.
In conclusion, he stated that World Football Day has become an important platform for promoting sports, peace, unity and sustainable development in the spirit of the UN mission. The Football Federation of Tajikistan is ready to expand cooperation with FIFA, the UN and other partners for the sake of inclusiveness and accessibility of football for all.