Hangzhou, 23 September 2023(TDI): The Asian Games 2023 are set to dazzle the world as the grand opening ceremony officially kicks off the 19th edition of this prestigious continental multisport event.
The Asian Games, also known as the Asiad, are held every four years. The 19th edition was originally scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and is going to happen on September 23.
Hangzhou, the host city famously known as the Big Lotus, is brimming with anticipation as it welcomes around 12,000 participants from 45 countries and regions across Asia, making this the largest Asian Games in history.
With a seating capacity of up to 80,000 spectators, this state-of-the-art venue is primed to host an unforgettable evening of festivities. The opening ceremony is scheduled to commence on and will be live-streamed for global audiences.
The world will witness the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony, making this an extraordinary moment in the realm of international sports.
President Xi will also host a welcoming banquet and bilateral events for foreign leaders attending this grand occasion.
Several prominent foreign leaders are attending this diplomatic extravaganza.
Notable guests include King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda of Nepal, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao of Timor-Leste, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo of South Korea, and Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat of Malaysia Johari bin Abdul.
Additionally, dignitaries such as Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah representing the Sultan of Brunei, Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani representing the Emir of Qatar, Prince Faisal bin Hussein of Jordan, Princess Sirivannavari of Thailand, and Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov of Kyrgyzstan will participate in related events.
The significance of these Games extends beyond sports. It underscores China’s commitment to inclusiveness, openness, and economic recovery.
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These Games feature a diverse array of sports, from traditional ones like dragon boat racing and kabaddi to mind sports like chess and esports. While nine sports will offer qualification spots for the Olympics, most of the 481 events present opportunities for smaller delegations to win medals.
One standout feature of the Asian Games 2023 is the digital torch-lighting ceremony, where millions of torchbearers will transform digital flames into a digital human figure on the Qiantang River.
The event will incorporate 3D animation and augmented reality, offering a visually stunning experience. Electronic smokeless fireworks will also illuminate the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium.
