Bhubaneswar, Oct 10 (NationPress) Sheikha Hayat Al Khalifa, the acting regional vice-president of the Asian Table Tennis Union (ATTU), commended India's exceptional preparations for the ITTF-ATTU Asian Table Tennis Team Championships 2025.

This prestigious event will take place at the famous Kalinga Stadium from October 11 to 15, serving as a qualifier for the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships, with the top 13 teams in each category securing their positions.

"I am thrilled to be here. Since my arrival, I have been profoundly impressed by the superb organization and world-class arrangements. The accommodation, transportation, and overall planning by the organizing committee are truly commendable. This guarantees that the championship will be among the finest ever held," remarked Sheikha Hayat.

Applauding India's swift progression in the sport, she continued, "I want to extend my congratulations to the Indian Table Tennis Federation and the Ministry of Sports for the remarkable advancement of their national team. Today, we can anticipate India competing on equal footing with teams like China and Japan — a testament to the progress and commitment invested in the sport."

Sheikha Hayat also emphasized ATTU's wider vision for the continent, stating, "We are collaborating closely with all our member associations to enhance the game across Asia. The prize fund for the Asian Cup has been raised from $100,000 to $400,000, and we are concentrating on expanding championships for youth, men, and women to foster inclusivity and excellence."

Finally, she expressed her gratitude towards the hosting state and the media, saying, "I sincerely thank the organizing committee and the people of Odisha for their warmth and hospitality. The state has demonstrated exceptional dedication to sports development. I also appreciate the media for assisting us in showcasing to the world how much Asia and India are contributing to the growth of table tennis."

vi/bc