IOC, IPC sign agreement on organization of Paralympic Games
( 2001-06-20 10:37 ) (8 )

The president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Juan Antonio Samaranch and the president of the International Paralympic Committee(IPC) Dr. Robert Steadward, signed Tuesday in Lausanne an agreement on the organization of the Paralympic Games.

According to the IOC press release, the agreement is aimed at securing the organization of the Paralympic Games with full integration of both organizing committee and financial guarantee. It shall be in effect from the 2008 Paralympic Games and the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.

The agreement addresses the general scope and organization of the Paralympic Games, with the aim of creating similar principles for the organization of the Olympics and Paralympic Games.

Steadward said that working closely with IOC in the future will enhance the quality and the worldwide recognition of the Paralympic Summer and Winter Games.

"Today is an important day for the Olympic Movement. This agreement is the result of many years of close relationship between the IOC and the IPC," said Samaranch

The agreement reaffirms that the Paralympic Games, which are the world games for athletes with a disability, always take place shortly after the Olympic Games, using the same sporting venues and facilities.