WADA President emphasizes important role of National Olympic Committees in speech to the Association of National Olympic Committees

Yesterday, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President, Witold Bańka, delivered a speech to the 25^th General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) held in Crete, Greece.

Speaking to the assembled delegates from the world's 205 National Olympic Committees (NOCs), Mr. Bańka emphasized the importance of the role of NOCs in anti-doping.

"Cooperation is what makes the global anti-doping system successful," said Mr. Bańka. "WADA leads a collaborative worldwide movement for doping-free sport. The continued protection of athletes is a shared responsibility. No single organization can carry the full load - we must each play our part, which includes the National Olympic Committees."

Speaking directly to the NOCs acting as National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs) in their countries, Mr. Bańka said: "If there is no National Anti-Doping Organization established in your country, then you as the NOC must fulfil this role and act as the NADO, thus ensuring full implementation of a World Anti-Doping Code-compliant anti-doping program in your country.

"WADA has a number of support programs that can help you at every stage. We always stand ready to help you increase your anti-doping capacity and ensure that you remain compliant. By working together, we can build athlete and public trust in the global anti-doping system," he said.

Watch a video of his speech here