AGF and international organization “Wrestling for Peace” sign memorandum of understanding

July 26, 2026

Representatives of the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan, the “Wrestling for Peace” organization, as well as members of the local and international sports community attended a press conference held at the National Gymnastics Arena.

The event featured remarks by Michael Hackett, Head of the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan; Ivan Ivanov, founder and president of Suples Training Systems and one of the prominent figures in international wrestling; Parvin Piriyev, Secretary General of the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation; and Dan Russell, Executive Director of “Wrestling for Peace”.

The speakers highlighted the role of sport in promoting international cooperation, strengthening intercultural dialogue and supporting the development of young people. They emphasized that wrestling is not only a sport, but also an important platform for promoting friendship, mutual understanding and peace.

As part of the press conference, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation and “Wrestling for Peace”. The document was signed by AGF Secretary General Parvin Piriyev and Executive Director of the organization Dan Russell.

The memorandum provides for the development of long-term cooperation between the two organizations, the creation of new opportunities for young athletes, the expansion of international exchange of expertise, the participation of coaches and specialists in joint projects, as well as the promotion of social development and peace initiatives through wrestling.

As part of the event, Ivan Ivanov, founder of Suples Training Systems, donated three internationally recognized “Bulgarian Bag” functional training equipment units to the Zafar Wrestling Club to support the training and development of young athletes.

The press conference concluded with a question-and-answer session with media representatives.