Press Release: Sport: Commission to reinforce co-operation with European Paralympic Committee to foster social inclusion of people with disabilities

On the occasion of an official visit to Beijing to attend the Paralympic Games, the European Commissioner responsible for sport, Ján Figel', signed a Joint Declaration with the President of the European Paralympic Committee (EPC), Mr Enrique Sánchez-Guijo. The declaration celebrated the granting of financial support to the EPC through the 'Europe for Citizens' programme of the European Union. In conformity with the Paralympic values promoted by the EPC, this support comes as recognition of the importance of sport in strengthening social integration and supporting the active involvement of all citizens in the process of European construction.