Signing of Cooperation Agreement Between IRSF and HPA

Memorandum of Cooperation Signed Between the International Refugee Sports Federation (IRSF) and the Hellenic Powerlifting Association (HPA)On Thursday, 20 November 2025, in Athens, Behnam Imani, President of the International Refugee Sports Federation (IRSF), and Andreas Kolettis, President of the Hellenic Powerlifting Association (HPA), held a constructive and friendly official meeting and signed a Memorandum of Cooperation and Solidarity between the two organizations.This memorandum reflects the shared commitment of both IRSF and HPA to promote human dignity, inclusion, and equal access to sport—particularly for refugees and vulnerable communities living in Greece. The agreement establishes a non-binding framework for voluntary collaboration grounded in respect, solidarity, and the belief that sport can build meaningful social impact.

Key Areas of Cooperation

According to the memorandum, IRSF and HPA express mutual interest in cooperating in the following areas:

• Organizing friendly, community-oriented sporting events
• Exchanging technical knowledge and experience in powerlifting and athletic training
• Providing cultural and moral support to programs that assist refugee social integration
• Promoting messages of unity, respect, and human dignity through sport
• Creating long-lasting cultural and athletic connections between Greek and refugee athletes

Both organizations emphasized the importance of using sport as a universal bridge between cultures, capable of strengthening social bonds and creating opportunities for those who face barriers to participation.

Statements from the Presidents

Behnam Imani, President of IRSF, stated:

“This cooperation is an important step toward supporting refugee athletes and building real pathways for their participation in the Greek sporting community. We sincerely appreciate the hospitality and positive spirit of collaboration shown by HPA.”Andreas Kolettis, President of HPA, added:

“Sport speaks a universal language. We welcome this partnership with IRSF and believe that our joint efforts can help create a fair, inclusive, and inspiring environment for all athletes.”

Conclusion

The International Refugee Sports Federation considers this partnership a significant milestone in its mission to empower refugee athletes and promote unity through sport.

IRSF looks forward to developing joint activities and initiatives with HPA that will enhance inclusion, opportunity, and mutual understanding within the wider sporting community.