Deputy Secretary General of the SCO Trade Council participates at the Roundtable at Russian House in New Delhi Highlighting the Role of Running Events in Urban Development and International Cooperation
New Delhi, India – A roundtable discussion titled “The Impact of Running Events on the Development of Cities: Tourism Potential and Socioeconomic Effects for Civil Society. The Case of the BRICS Marathon League” was held at the Russian House in New Delhi, bringing together leading experts in international sports development and marathon organization.
The discussion explored sport as a strategic tool for regional growth, international cooperation, and the strengthening of social ties. Participants emphasized that modern running events have evolved far beyond athletic competitions, becoming powerful drivers of urban economic activity and community engagement.
The meeting was moderated by Vladimir Voloshin, co-founder of the BRICS Marathon League, Moyfitness.rf, IRON STAR, and ROSA RUN. In his keynote remarks, Voloshin underscored the transformative potential of large-scale running events in shaping city identities, stimulating tourism, and fostering inclusive civic participation.
Among the distinguished speakers were Ivan Dovgan, CEO of the BRICS Marathon League; Dmitry Tarasov, co-founder of the Running Community and the League, and Director of the Moscow Marathon; and Vadim Yangirov, co-founder of the League and Director of the Kazan Marathon.
Speakers highlighted that major marathons significantly contribute to enhancing the international image of host cities, promoting tourism, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and creating new opportunities for volunteerism and healthy lifestyles. In the BRICS countries, running events are increasingly serving as platforms for cultural exchange, humanitarian cooperation, and the advancement of sports diplomacy.
The audience actively engaged with the panel, raising questions about the future geographic expansion of the BRICS Marathon League, strategies for attracting international athletes, supporting young talents, collaborating with government institutions, and enabling businesses to participate in the growing international sports movement.
The lively and insightful discussion reaffirmed a central message: running unites not only people, but also cities, economies, and cultures — opening new horizons for sustainable development and global partnership.
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