Bangkok (VNA) — Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong on January 20 visited and encouraged the Vietnamese Para sports delegation competing at the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, about 250 km northeast of Bangkok, Thailand.
During the visit, Cuong inquired about the health of athletes and coaches, while also learning about the delegation’s accommodation, daily activities and training conditions during their first days in the host country. He praised the athletes’ determination, resilience and thorough preparation, affirming that the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is closely monitoring the Games and creating the most favourable conditions for the Vietnamese delegation to compete with confidence.
He highlighted the State’s growing support for athletes, particularly under Government Decree No. 349/2025/ND-CP, which will take effect from February 15, 2026. The decree provides detailed regulations on salaries, nutrition, healthcare, training, employment support, insurance and bonuses, with increased monthly allowances for athletes who achieve high results.
Cuong stressed that the ASEAN Para Games are not only a regional sporting event but also an opportunity for Vietnamese athletes with disabilities to demonstrate their courage, aspiration and the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people.
Head of the delegation Le Thi Hoang Yen reported that accommodation and training conditions have been well arranged, and that the entire team remains focused and determined ahead of official competition.
Vietnam sends 185 members, including 140 athletes, competing in 11 sports, including athletics, swimming, weightlifting, badminton, table tennis, chess, judo, boccia, archery, tennis, and fencing. The country aims to win 40–50 gold medals and strives to rank among the top 4–5 countries./.
