The APC Executive Board met before the General Assembly ©APC

Representatives from 31 National Paralympic Committees (NPC) are set to attend the fifth Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) General Assembly in Thai capital Bangkok.

The two-day meeting, scheduled to begin tomorrow, will feature an update on the APC’s strategic plan and the organisation’s finances.

It follows on from the APC Executive Board meeting, which drew to a conclusion yesterday.

Among the topics discussed were the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, the Indonesia 2018 Asia Para Games and further opportunities to support the membership and build capacity in the region.

Reports were also given to the Executive Board by the Asian Sub Regions and Standing Committees.

It will be the first General Assembly held under the Presidency of Majid Rashed, who was elected back in December 2014.

"At this halfway point in the APC’s Strategic Plan, the results from Rio 2016 demonstrate clear progress from the Asian nations," Rashed said.

"However there is still much to do.

"As we welcome our colleagues from the National Paralympic Committees (NPCs), we look forward to a productive two days sharing ideas and plans for the continued development of the Paralympic movement in our region."

An update will be given on the APC Strategic Plan, which was adopted in 2015 ©APC
An update will be given on the APC Strategic Plan, which was adopted in 2015 ©APC

The APC's strategic plan was adopted in 2015, with one of the key aims being to establish sustainable funding for the organisation by diversifying revenue sources.

Enhancing coverage of Paralympic sports in Asia through the development of the internet and social media were highlighted in the plan, along with developing new partnerships and strengthening ties with the IPC and the Olympic Council of Asia.

The plan is part of the APC’s aim to make Asia the leading Paralympic region.

The General Assembly will see member nations discuss the APC constitution and receive updates from various Organising Committees for future Games.

More than 100 attendees are expected to attend with 31 of the 42 NPCs in the region represented. 

Officials from the International Paralympic Committee and International Federations are also set to be in attendance as observers.

The APC Awards Gala dinner will take place alongside the General Assembly, to honour athletes and administrators who have contributed to the Paralympic Movement.