Ocenaia Sports Ministers pledged to support WADA's global collaborative movement for doping-free sport, increase anti-doping capacity and positively influence clean sport policy in the Oceania region. Photo: Facebook / Savali Newspaper
The inaugural World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) forum for Sport Ministers in Oceania was held in Samoa.
The meeting concluded with the signing of the Apia Declaration.
The declaration commits to holding the forum on a biannual basis in different Oceania countries, and recognises the importance that all governments supporting and upholding the World Anti-Doping Code and the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport.
Participants pledged to support WADA's global collaborative movement for doping-free sport, increase anti-doping capacity, and positively influence clean sport policy in the Oceania region
The forum is part of a series of events held to gather and exchange views with governments around the world.
WADA president Witold Bańka said the Oceania region is a key player in the global anti-doping landscape, and it is vital there is strong involvement from its public authorities.
He said the level of government commitment can make or break an anti-doping program.
Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa said that by working together, they could "enhance regional anti-doping initiatives, champion the Clean Sport Movement, and cultivate a culture of transparency and accountability".