The International Surfing Association (ISA), Surfing’s World Governing Authority recognized by the International Olympic Committee, is proud to welcome Russia and Slovakia to its list of Member Nations.

Fernando Aguerre, President of the ISA, said about the newest members, “I am thrilled about the news, and happy to welcome Russian and Slovakian surfers to the international surfing family. On one side we welcome the world’s largest country, a superpower with a considerable coastline, and on the other a landlocked small country. Both of them have one thing in common: a group of surfers willing to work for a better surfing future. Welcome Russia and welcome Slovakia! We are looking forward to seeing you at future ISA World Surfing Championships.”

Located in northern Eurasia, Russia is the largest country in the world and the ninth most populous. Russia has an extensive coastline of over 37,000 km (22,991 mi) along the Arctic and Pacific Oceans, as well as along the Baltic Sea, Sea of Azov, Black Sea and Caspian Sea. Most of the surfing in the country takes place in Vladivostok and Sochi.

“We are really happy about being part of the international surf community,” said the Russian Surfing Federation President (RSF), Feliks Pak. “It is very important for the RSF to reach our goal of having surfing recognized as a sport in Russia. Our main objectives are: to promote surfing in Russia, to open surf schools for kids in Vladivostok, to train our judges and coaches in ISA competition rules, and to participate in the ISA World Surfing Games in 2012.”

The Slovak Republic, a landlocked state in Central Europe, bordered by the Czech Republic and Austria to the west, Poland to the north, Ukraine to the east and Hungary to the south, has a population of over 5 million. The current surf population numbers in the hundreds but they are eager develop the sport. The Slovak Surfing Federation is led by President Michal Kostal.

The International Surfing Association welcomes Member Nations #68 and #69 as the organization continues its global work to develop the sport throughout the World.