The Kuwaiti has been chosen to replace Mario Vázquez Raña after the Mexican unexpectedly stepped down earlier this month as the ANOC President following 33 years in the position. 

Sheikh Ahmad has been initially chosen to take over from Vázquez Raña until the meeting in Moscow, which is due take place in the Russian capital between April 11 and 17.

It is expected that the General Assembly will rubberstamp the plan for Sheikh Ahmad to complete the rest of Vázquez Raña's term, which is due to last until 2014.

The removal of Vázquez Raña followed a damaging period for ANOC during which he claimed that Sheikh Ahmad was leading a plot to overthrow him. 

Sheikh Ahmad has now said that ANCO needs to stand shoulder to shoulder for the good of the global Olympic Movement and contribute to a successful Olympic Games in London.

"The Executive Council and members of ANOC must show unity, solidarity and cooperation, and work together with the National Olympic Committees and with the International Federations," he said.

"We will serve the Olympic Movement according to the Olympic Charter and we are open and transparent in welcoming any suggestions, recommendations and proposals on the way forward. Whatever the majority decides will be followed.

"It is a great honour and a privilege for me personally and for the Olympic sports family in Asia in general to be appointed Interim President of ANOC."

"I would like to place on record my sincere appreciation and thanks for the work and dedication of Mr Mario Vazquez Rana over many years.

"I would also like to thank the Executive Council for showing unity in this time of need."

Sheikh Ahmad also extended a vote of thanks to the Moscow organisers forced to step in at late notice after the British Olympic Association (BOA) were unable to find the money to host the event. 

"I'd like to thank Russian Federation Government, Moscow City Government and Russian Olympic Committee for organising those important events in this important timing," he said.

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