Asian Canoe Confederation activities Q4 2025

A New Era of Engagement Across Asia 

Since my election as President of the Asian Canoe Confederation (ACC), my primary commitment has been to personally reach out to our member nations and strengthen the foundation of unity, cooperation, and growth within the ACC family. Over the past several weeks, I have travelled extensively across the continent and internationally, engaging with National Federations, Government leaders, and global sports authorities to advance our shared vision for canoeing in Asia. This period has been marked by meaningful conversations, diplomacy, and the beginning of several long-term partnerships that will elevate our sport. My foremost commitment has been to convert this vision into action.

Strengthening Continental Bonds – Meeting ACC Leadership

One of the first steps I took was to begin personal interactions with Presidents and Secretary Generals of various ACC nations. A particularly warm and constructive meeting took place with the President of the Myanmar Canoe Federation, reflecting the shared interest in revitalising canoeing activities and expanding cooperation. Such engagements embody our renewed commitment to ensuring that every member nation feels valued, supported, and involved in shaping the future of canoeing in Asia. 

Felicitation by the Indian Olympic Association

Soon after my election, I was honoured by the Indian Olympic Association, where IOA President Smt. PT Usha extended her best wishes on behalf of the Indian Olympic family. During this meeting, we discussed India’s evolving role in Asian sports and the increasing potential for canoeing to become one of the region’s strongest Olympic disciplines. The IOA’s recognition further strengthens our resolve to build Asia into a powerhouse in the global canoeing landscape.  

Strategic Discussions with Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, India 

My engagements continued with a significant meeting at the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, where I presented the ACC’s vision and outlined how India could play a defining role leading up to future multi-sport events, including the potential 2036 Olympic Games. We discussed the developmental roadmap for canoeing in Asia, opportunities for infrastructure enhancement, and collaborative technical programmes for federations across the continent. A series of follow-up dialogues with senior officials reinforced the strong support for our initiatives. 

Visit to Uttarakhand – Advancing Water Sports Development

As part of strengthening state-level frameworks, I travelled to Uttarakhand to meet the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Secretary of Sports. These discussions focused on expanding water sports infrastructure, athlete training systems, and the growing importance of Tehri as one of Asia’s emerging hubs for water sports. The state’s proactive approach provides a promising platform for future international camps and continental activities. 

The First-Ever President Cup – A Historic Achievement

A major milestone during this period was hosting the inaugural President Cup Canoeing and Kayaking, a landmark event for Asian canoeing. With participation from 21 countries, the competition brought together athletes, officials, and stakeholders in one of the most dynamic and encouraging gatherings the sport has seen in the region. The event received overwhelming appreciation for its organisation, athlete experience, and competitive spirit. The successful debut of this championship has set the tone for future editions, where we aim to elevate the standard further and formally institutionalise this event as a flagship competition for ACC.

Asia Cup – Hong Kong and Strategic Engagements

Continuing the momentum, I attended the Asia Cup in Hong Kong, which brought together athletes from across the continent. The vibrant competition showcased the rising talent in Asia and reinforced the commitment of the Hong Kong Canoe Union to strengthening continental development efforts. During my visit to Hong Kong, in addition to attending the Asia Cup, I had the opportunity to engage in several important meetings and competition visits that further strengthened regional cooperation. I met with Ms. Yang Yingying, Director of the Hangzhou Sports Bureau, along with her colleagues, to discuss future collaborations, development pathways, and opportunities for integrating Hangzhou’s growing sports infrastructure with ACC initiatives. 

As part of the visit, I also attended multiple competitions including the 2025 Hong Kong Paddle Cups – Canoe Ocean Racing, the Asian SUP Championships, the 2025 Hong Kong Paddle Cups – Canoe Sprint, and the Asian Canoe Marathon Championships, each showcasing impressive athlete participation and organisational excellence. 

The visit coincided with the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Hong Kong Canoe Union (HKCCU), where I participated in the commemorative ceremony acknowledging five decades of remarkable contribution to paddle sports development in the region.

Engagement with International Canoe Federation – Budapest Visit

I then travelled to Budapest to participate in the meetings of the International Canoe Federation, where several crucial decisions and strategic discussions regarding the global development of canoeing were held. My exchanges with ICF President Mr. Thomas Konietzko, Secretary General Mr. Richard Pettit, and the Executive Committee focused on Asia’s development roadmap, upcoming facilities in the Middle East, and the need for enhanced coaching and high-performance programmes for Asian nations. This interaction sets the foundation for deeper ICF–ACC collaboration. 

Strengthening International Relations – Italy–India Canoeing Dialogue

A significant highlight of recent weeks was the interaction with Mr. Luciano Buonfigli, Vice President of the ICF, during the visit of the Hon’ble Foreign Minister of Italy, Mr. Antonio Tajani, to India. The meeting was hosted by the High Commission of Italy and attended by senior representatives from CONI and Italian sports institutions. Our dialogue focused on bilateral cooperation, exchange programmes, joint training opportunities, and technical collaboration between Italy and Asia. This marks the beginning of a promising partnership that will benefit Asian athletes and coaches. 

Closing Remarks 

Since being elected, I have been continuously travelling, engaging, and working to ensure that the Asian Canoe Confederation begins a new chapter marked by unity, development, and growth. These initial weeks have laid a strong foundation for the years ahead through international partnerships, national outreach, continental events, and meaningful strategic dialogue. The momentum is strong, and together, as one Asian canoeing family, we will continue building a powerful and progressive future for our sport. 

By Prashant Kushwaha, President of the Asian Canoe Confederation