The Association of National Olympic Committees, which has 161 members and is also known as the "United Nations of Sports" was inaugurated in Puerto Rico in June 1979 to promote mutual understanding and cooperation between individual committees and popularize the basic ideas of the Olympic Movement throughout the world.

The 5th General Assembly will adopt an official program of activities which will serve as the guideline of activities for the ANOC, make an amendment to its charter and elect the new officials of the Association. The Meeting will also provide an excellent opportunity for us to explain in detail to its participants, the preparations we are making for the "86 Asian Games" and the "88 Olympic Games" so that we will have a firmer foundation for the successful holding of the two Games.