HANGZHOU: Chinese President Xi Jinping warmly welcomed international dignitaries attending the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games at a banquet on Saturday noon in Hangzhou, East China’s Province of Zhejiang Province.
China is committed to hosting a unique and spectacular event that showcases Chinese culture and highlights the diversity of Asia. The Asian Games cauldron will be lit again in China on the Autumn Equinox, a day symbolizing harvest and reunion in Chinese culture. President Xi Jinping stated that China has fulfilled its promise and spared no efforts in preparing for the 19th Asian Games, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Photo:Xinhua
According to Chinese analysts, the Asian Games, which will have a magnificent opening ceremony on Saturday night, is not only a grand sports event but also an important diplomatic platform for China to convey its friendly and firm message to the world, while promoting global peace and stability.
As of press time, President Xi has met with foreign leaders including King of Cambodia Norodom Sihamoni and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao of Timor-Leste on Saturday, as well as Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Crown Prince of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on Friday.
President Xi emphasized that the Asian Games represents the aspirations of Asian people for peace, solidarity, and inclusiveness, and called for efforts to promote peace through sports and make Asia a cornerstone of world peace.
President Xi stressed the importance of good neighborliness, mutual benefit, and the rejection of a Cold War mentality and camp-based confrontation among Asian countries.
Asia has maintained overall stability and rapid economic growth in recent decades. The Asian Games has played a significant role in this Asian Miracle, according to President Xi.
Photo:Xinhua
Looking globally, Asia is undoubtedly the most vibrant, prosperous, and stable region, providing hope for the world. According to Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, Asia has set the benchmark for world peace and inclusiveness.
Chinese analysts warned that Asian countries should remain vigilant against external forces, specifically represented by the US and its alliance thinking and practice of extreme confrontation. They believe such forces could create tremendous crisis in Asia, jeopardizing regional stability, as seen in the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
The 19th Asian Games is expected to set new records for participation and the number of events, reflecting the anticipation and support of Asian people. President Xi confirmed that the Hangzhou Asian Games is the largest in history, with the most events and broadest coverage. A record high of around 12,500 athletes from 45 countries and regions are participating.
Faced with unprecedented global challenges, President Xi called for unity among Asian people to tackle these challenges. He emphasized the importance of promoting peace, solidarity, and inclusiveness through sports.
In terms of solidarity, President Xi stated that as humanity faces global challenges, Asian people must seize historic opportunities and work together for common development, openness, and integration.
Regarding inclusiveness, President Xi highlighted how the Asian Games provides a platform for sports and cultures to enrich each other. He emphasized the promotion of inclusiveness through sports, the confidence in Asian civilizations, and the pursuit of communication, mutual learning, and the enhancement of Asian civilizations.
President Xi wished guests an unforgettable time in Zhejiang Province and fond memories of the Games.
