The International Skating Union’s 58th Ordinary Congress is underway in Phuket, with the island welcoming attendees at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa yesterday. The event will run until Friday and is expected to generate revenue of over 60 million baht for the island. Jan Dijkema, president of the ISU, thanked Thailand for hosting the congress, which is when major decisions are made about the union’s future direction.
“I would like to take this moment to thank the Thai government, the Figure and Speed Skating Association of Thailand, and all participants, who sacrificed so much of their valuable time and efforts, in organising this meeting for the ISU. Coming together in such a spirit of unity and commitment can only result in our congress accomplishing the goals for everyone’s benefit.”
Around 90 countries are being represented by around 500 attendees at the event. Each attendee is expected to spend between 70,000 and 100,000 baht at the event, giving the local economy a much-needed boost.
According to a Bangkok Post report, Suwanna Silpa-archa, an ISU Council Member, says the association welcomed the opportunity to host the global event.
“The event today marks a hopeful milestone for every member country to improve its ice skating. To pave the way for this sport takes tremendous effort and passion.”
Meanwhile, Thailand’s tourism minister, who is also in Phuket attending a number of tourism-related events, says the country is honoured to host the event, using the occasion to point out all Phuket has to offer.
“Phuket is full of natural resources and rich in cultural and traditional lifestyles. It’s a perfect place to organise this meeting.”
