KUNA photo Engineer Duaij Al-Otaibi speaks at the opening ceremony.

CAIRO, April 24: Engineer Duaij Al-Otaibi, President of both the Kuwait and Arab Shooting Federations, highlighted the vital role of the ongoing Arab Shooting Championship in Cairo, set to continue until May 1, in preparing Arab marksmen for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Al-Otaibi expressed his pride in attending the prestigious event, stating, “It is a great honor to be here in Egypt, the heartbeat of the Arab world, to participate in this significant sporting gathering that symbolizes unity, brotherhood, and noble competition.”

He emphasized that the championship transcends sport, saying, “This event is a powerful message of unity. Sports bring people together, and when Arabs come together on one land, we unite in love, peace, and ambition.”

Al-Otaibi also acknowledged the unwavering support for sports in Kuwait, generously provided by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

He noted the Federation’s commitment to hosting key tournaments, including the successful event held in Kuwait last November under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. “This current championship in Egypt reflects our continued dedication to excellence,” he added.

Al-Otaibi also announced that another major shooting event will be hosted by the Moroccan Shooting Federation this coming September in the city of Tangier.

Concluding his remarks, Al-Otaibi wished all teams success and progress, stating, “May this championship mark another step forward in the growth and global recognition of Arab shooting sports.”