The opening ceremony of the VI Asian Beach Games took place in the Chinese city of Sanya. The competition has brought together 45 National Olympic Committees from across the continent.
The ceremony was held in the coastal area of the Tianya Haijiao complex. The format of the show differed from traditional stadium performances: the action unfolded directly on the seashore, with spectators located in close proximity to the venue.
A welcome speech was delivered by the President of the Olympic Council of Asia, Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani. He expressed gratitude to the government of the People's Republic of China, the city of Sanya, and the Chinese Olympic Committee for the high level of organization, and also highlighted the country’s extensive experience in hosting major international sporting events, including both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. The official declaration of the opening of the Games was made by State Councilor of China, Shen Yiqin.
The Asian Beach Games are being held from April 22 to 30. Around 1,790 athletes are participating in the competition. Events are organized across eight cluster zones along Sanya Bay, on the river of the same name, as well as in the city’s sports center. Particular emphasis has been placed on the use and modernization of existing infrastructure.
China is hosting the Asian Beach Games for the second time in history; previously, the multi-sport event was held in Haiyang in 2012.
