29 September 2008

In his double capacity as Secretary General of the Italian NOC and of the EOC, M. Raffaele Pagnozzi (ITA) went to Tirana last week end for a visit to the NOC of Albania. While there, he met President Hysen Domi with whom he exchanged views on various topical issues. Mr. Pagnozzi was later received by Prime Minister Sali Berisha and sports authorities. Talks involved among others future collaboration in view of the construction of a Centre for Olympic Preparation. The EOC Secretary General then travelled to Durazzo where he attended the closing ceremony of the World Junior Weightlifting Championships. Continuing his trip, Mr. Pagnozzi went to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, where he visited the brand new offices of the last Member NOC of the EOC. A meeting with Mr Dusan Simonovic, President of the NOC and Mr Djordjije Kustudic, Secretary General, allowed an exchange of views and a round up on future activities. During his stay in Podgorica, the EOC Secretary General was received by Mr Branislav Mićunović the Minister of Sport and Mr Boro Vučinić the Defence Minister. A very positive week end indeed, which confirmed the excellent relations between these two NOCs ad the European Association.