Udovicic: Stronger support to Paralympians

BELGRADE - Serbian Minister of Youth and Sports Vanja Udovicic and President of Paralympic Committee of Serbia (POKS) Zoran Micovic signed a funding agreement on Wednesday, based on which the Paralympians will be allocated RSD 42 million (EUR 1 = RSD 116) from the state budget this year.

"The Paralympians and athletes with disability hold a prominent place in the Ministry's agenda and the sports development strategy for the next five years. A stronger support is not only a result of their sporting achievements, but also a reflection of the Serbian government's desire to raise public awareness, give hope to athletes and, most importantly, to provide a systemic solution to the problems faced by disabled persons. The disabled ten percent of Serbian citizens are the heroes of our society and it is our duty to put their courage, determination and perseverance to the forefront," said Udovicic upon signing the agreement at the Palace of Serbia.

POKS President Micovic thanked the ministry for the budget rise, which is nearly doubled compared to the year before.

“In this way, the state shows concern for all its citizens, proves that it values the results of our disabled athletes, and gives them an opportunity to engage in sports," said Micovic.

Part of the funds for 2014 provided by the Ministry of Youth and Sports will be used to finance Serbia's participation in the Winter Paralympic Games in Sochi from March 7-16, where Jugoslav Malesevic will compete in two alpine skiing disciplines.

Photo Tanjug, F. Kraincanic (archive)