Oleg Matytsin, FISU PresidentFISU President Oleg Matytsin has expressed his profound grief for the victims of the deadly terror attack in Sri Lanka that killed more than 300 people and injured at least 500 more. In a letter to Sri Lanka Universities Sports Association (SLUSA) President Prof. Tilak PD Gamage, Matytsin said, “It is at times like this that the world must come together and stand as one. In your darkest hour, you must know that we are with you.”
The suicide attacks that ripped through churches and hotels on Easter Sunday, were the worst violence Sri Lanka has witnessed since its civil war ended more than a decade ago. Authorities have arrested 40 people and certain terror outfits have claimed responsibility, but the attacks have left the nation shaken.
Responding to the state of emergency and official day of mourning declared by the Sri Lankan government, Matytsin said, “The world mourns with you. In our world – the world of sport – we celebrate life, peace and positivity. It is a dark day for all of us when a horrific tragedy like this shakes us to the core.”
The FISU President also strongly condemned the terror attacks, saying “There is no place for hate and fear in our ideal world, a world that we strive towards every day. Let those who commit these cowardly acts know that evil shall never triumph.”
“Our hearts go out to our colleagues, friends and all the people in Sri Lanka.”