by sportswriter Xiao Shiyao

SANYA, China, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia is keen to deepen sports cooperation with China and expand its role in the global sporting landscape, said Abdulaziz Baeshen, CEO and secretary general of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Speaking to Xinhua during the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province, Baeshen praised the organization of the event and China's proven ability to host major international competitions.

"China has a well-established reputation for delivering major sporting events with a high level of organization and attention to detail, and this is clearly reflected in the Games so far," he said.

Baeshen said Sanya had also left a strong impression. "It is both vibrant and naturally beautiful, with characteristics that align closely with beach and coastal sports," he noted.

He also welcomed China's visa-free policy for Saudi citizens, calling it a positive step for bilateral exchanges. "It makes engagement simpler and creates greater opportunities for closer interaction, particularly within the sports sector," he said, adding that the policy will facilitate exchanges among athletes, coaches and officials, as well as joint training and competitions.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a regional sports hub in the Middle East and is preparing for a series of major events, including the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

"For us, sport goes beyond competition. It contributes to community engagement and international connectivity," he said.

According to Baeshen, nearly 60 percent of Saudi adults now engage in regular physical activity, while youth participation continues to rise. The country is building a comprehensive sports ecosystem spanning infrastructure development and athlete pathways.

"Preparations for the Asian Cup and World Cup are progressing well and remain a national priority," he said, adding that Saudi Arabia looks forward to welcoming Chinese athletes, teams and fans.

With multiple events on the horizon, Baeshen said cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China holds strong potential, particularly in areas such as sports science, youth development, training and event management.

"China's achievements in sport are both impressive and deeply respected. There is a clear sense of consistency and vision in China's approach to sport, from infrastructure to athlete development and event organization," he said.

"Our aim is to create meaningful opportunities for athletes and young people in both countries, building a partnership that reflects shared ambition and strong bilateral ties," he added.

Looking ahead, Baeshen said Saudi Arabia remains open to hosting more major international events, including beach sports competitions.

"We will continue to assess opportunities to host major international competitions that align with our long-term vision, with the objective of strengthening Saudi Arabia's position as a reliable and valued partner in the global sporting landscape," he said.

"With coastlines along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, beach and coastal sports have strong potential in the Kingdom," he noted. "Hosting an event such as the Asian Beach Games would certainly be an interesting opportunity and is something we may consider in the future." ■