Xi Jinping Attends the Opening Ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin
The Ninth Asian Winter Games, a premier international multi-sport event, officially commenced in Harbin, the capital city of Heilongjiang Province in Northeast China. Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony, declaring the games open alongside other high-ranking officials and dignitaries from across Asia. The ceremony, held at the Harbin International Conference and Sports Center, featured a variety of performances and presentations, including the display of the Chinese national flag, the playing of the national anthem, and a welcoming dance.
8 February 2025
The event brought together athletes from 34 countries and regions, with the Chinese team, comprising 257 members including 170 athletes, being greeted with warm applause as they entered the venue last, in accordance with the tradition of the host country's team appearing at the end of the procession. In their speeches, officials welcomed athletes and guests, expressing hopes for a successful and harmonious event that would not only showcase athletic prowess but also foster friendship and exchanges among participating nations.
The Asian Olympic Council's First Vice President, Husain Al-Musallam, acknowledged China's significant contributions to the development of ice and snow sports in Asia and praised the preparations for the event. The ceremony concluded with a spectacular display of fireworks, cultural performances, and the lighting of the main torch, symbolizing the official start of the games. The event was a celebration of Asian culture, with performances that highlighted the region's diversity and richness.
The games aim to promote unity, friendship, and cooperation among Asian nations through sports, with the theme "Ice and Snow, Same Dream, Asian Heart." The event is expected to provide a platform for Asian nations to come together, share their cultures, and promote mutual understanding and cooperation. As the games unfold, they are expected to promote the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and fair play, underscoring the common aspirations of Asian nations for peace, development, and cooperation.
The successful hosting of the games will not only demonstrate China's capabilities in organizing major international sporting events but also promote the development of ice and snow sports in the region. The event will provide an opportunity for athletes to showcase their talents, and for nations to come together and celebrate their shared passion for sports. With the attendance of prominent international guests, the event underscored the importance of unity, friendship, and mutual development among Asian nations.
The games showcased the diversity and richness of Asian cultures, as well as the region's shared aspirations for peace, prosperity, and cooperation. The event also highlighted China's commitment to hosting international sporting events and its growing influence in the global sports arena. As the games progressed, athletes from across Asia demonstrated their skills, perseverance, and teamwork, inspiring audiences and fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
In his speech, President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of unity, cooperation, and mutual development among Asian nations, stressing that the games should serve as a catalyst for deeper regional integration and cooperation. He also highlighted the significance of the event in promoting people-to-people exchanges, fostering greater understanding and friendship among Asian nations, and showcasing the region's rich cultural diversity.
The successful staging of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin demonstrated China's capabilities as a host country and its commitment to promoting regional cooperation and development through sports. The event left a lasting legacy, not only in terms of the athletic achievements but also in terms of the strengthened bonds of friendship and cooperation among Asian nations. The games will serve as a powerful reminder of the region's shared aspirations and its determination to work together towards a brighter, more prosperous future.
