Russian-Kazakh ice hockey league might be established in 2006

A joint Russian-Kazakh ice hockey league might be established in 2006, said Russian Physical Culture and Sports Agency Chairman Vyacheslav Fetisov.

"I hope that the Russian and Kazakh presidents' initiative on the setting up of a joint ice hockey league could be put into practice in 2006," Fetisov said at the opening ceremony of the 28th sambo wrestling world championship in Astana on Saturday evening.

Fetisov conveyed Russian President Vladimir Putin's greetings to the tournament's participants. "It is pleasant that this sport, which was born in Russia, has won broad popularity and recognition, which is confirmed by the composition of its participants which features participants who have come to Kazakhstan from many countries," Putin's greeting reads.

The Russian president said he hopes "the competition will contribute to the further development of sambo."

Athletes from 42 countries are taking part in the championship, which Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev is attending at the Astana Sports Palace, reported "Interfax".