The International Tournament in the traditional wrestling styles of Goresh and belt wrestling Alysh officially began on Wednesday at the Martial Arts Sports Complex in Ashgabat, according to Turkmenistan’s state media.

In this regard, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov extended his congratulations to the participants. "I am confident that this landmark event in Turkmenistan’s sports history will significantly strengthen international cooperation, triumphantly promote peace and friendship, advance the Olympic movement, and enhance the skill and experience of athletes in Goresh and Alysh wrestling," the President said.

The competition has brought together athletes from 14 countries, including Russia, Belarus, India, Mongolia, Afghanistan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. The tournament is dedicated to Ashgabat receiving the title of “City of New Sporting Opportunities of the Commonwealth.”

A total of 18 medal sets will be contested. Special emphasis is placed on the national sport of Goresh, with men competing in eight freestyle weight categories. In Alysh wrestling, men compete in six categories and women in four.

As the host nation, Turkmenistan is represented by two teams in each wrestling discipline. The Alysh finals are scheduled for April 24 and 25.