The Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games Organizing Committee has wished for a successful Games that embodies the Olympic spirit.

Speaking at the opening ceremony at the Olympic Sports Center Stadium in Hangzhou, China, on Wednesday, Wang Hao, President of the Organizing Committee, said, “Today is the Autumn Equinox, one of the 24 seasons of the Chinese calendar. I wish all athletes the best of luck in the season of harvest,” he said, “May they compete with passion, challenge their limits and realize their dreams.”

“Sports is a platform to showcase different cultures and a bridge to build friendships,” said Gao Zhidan, President of the Chinese Olympic Committee, adding, “Let’s open a new chapter of the Asian community with a common future.”

“A one-year postponement due to the (coronavirus) pandemic is unprecedented in history, but the hard work and determination (so far) will pay off,” said Randhir Singh, Acting President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), and wished for “the most magnificent and successful Asian Games ever.”

The Games were then opened by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In keeping with the eco-friendly, digital, and smart theme of the Games, firecracker graphics were displayed on LED screens instead of actual firecrackers.

The opening ceremony was attended by South Korean Prime Minister Han Deok-soo, Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Kuwaiti Crown Prince Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and Timorese Prime Minister Sanana Gusmao.

Han stood up and waved to welcome the South Korean athletes as they entered the venue. 스포츠토토