On behalf of the Olympic Movement. I salute the
participants of the 7th Sumo World Championship to be held in
Tokyo, on 5-6 December 1998.
On this occasion, the world most famous sumo wrestlers
will compete in this traditional Japanese sport, whose roots
go back to 1350 years ago. We all have in memory the
participation of the best sumo wrestlers in the opening
ceremony of the ??? Olympic Winter Games in Nagano last
February. This Japanese long-lasting heritage can contribute
to the cultural diversity and richness of the Olympic
Movement.
I wish the organizers and the competitors a very
successful championship.
