RECEPTION IN THE HONOR OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS CONTESTANTS

Belgrade, 9 September, 2005 – Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Alexander II and Crown Princess Katherine hosted a reception, yesterday in the White Palace, for the contestants of the Special Olympics, who arrived in Belgrade from twenty countries. This is the biggest sport event devoted to persons with special needs.

As an introduction to the European Basketball Championship in Belgrade, Eurobasket 2005, “Special Olympics”, under the patronage of H.E. Boris Tadic, the President of Republic of Serbia, are played with slogan: “Allow me to win, and if I can not win, support my effort”.

Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Alexander II and Crown Princess Katherine stated on this occasion that sport and humanity amongst people should be above political influence. Their Royal Highnesses stressed the importance of equality amongst all people without any limits and announced that it will be honor and pleasure for them to close the Special Olympics and to give the awards to the winners.

With this reception at The White Palace, Their Royal Highnesses wish to extend their support to the people and children with special needs and their families as well as to support their attempt to involve themselves in daily activities and to become equal members of the society.