The International Handball Federation (IHF) demonstrated its ongoing commitment to advancing handball by hosting a series of important meetings at its Head Office in Basel during June and July 2025. These gatherings saw leaders from the Macedonian, Serbian, and Turkish Handball Federations come to Switzerland, all united by the goal of fostering the sport’s growth at both national and international levels.

On 6 June 2025, the IHF hosted the Serbian Handball Federation, represented by President Mr Bozidar Djurkovic and Secretary General Mr Ivan Milivojevic. The meeting began with the introduction of the new management of the Serbian federation. Discussions focused on possibilities for further developing handball in Serbia with an emphasis on grassroots initiatives and enhancing competitive excellence. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing cooperation and the continued growth of handball in Serbia.

Later, on 3 July 2025, the IHF welcomed a delegation from the Macedonian Handball Federation, led by President Mr Aleksandar Stefanov and Secretary General Mr Vlatko Tasevski. The agenda included discussions on opportunities for North Macedonia to host future editions of IHF World Championships, reflecting the country’s growing handball infrastructure and enthusiasm for the sport. Both organisations explored a strategic plan for the North Macedonia handball teams for the period 2026–2029 and addressed the development of beach handball and wheelchair handball, illustrating the IHF’s integrated and inclusive approach. Strengthening the collaboration between the IHF and the Macedonian Handball Federation was a central theme throughout the meeting.

In addition to these agenda-driven meetings, the IHF also received a courtesy visit on 9 July 2025  from the Turkish Handball Federation, represented by President Mr Mesut Çebi. The visit provided an opportunity to discuss the positive trajectory of cooperation between the IHF and the Turkish federation and to explore ways to further promote and develop handball in Türkiye, building on the country’s dynamic sporting culture.

IHF President Dr Hassan Moustafa expressed his appreciation for the constructive dialogue and collaborative spirit demonstrated by all visiting delegations. These meetings underscore the IHF’s dedication to supporting its member federations, sharing expertise, and driving the global development of handball. The IHF looks forward to continued partnerships and the realisation of new initiatives that will inspire the next generation of handball athletes and fans worldwide.