At the flag-raising ceremony (Photo: VNA) Speaking at the flag-raising ceremony, Vietnamese DeputyMinister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong extended warm welcome tothe participating delegations.
He said the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the delay of many sports events in the region and the world, including SEA Games 31. With the Vietnamese Government's resolve, the Vietnamese people's encouragement, and enthusiastic support of 11 countries in the Southeast Asian region, the organising committee has gained more confidence and determination to hold a successful and safe SEA Games.
Being held in Hanoi and 11 cities and provinces, theGames serves as a sports arena for the most outstanding athletes in the region,he said, noting that the Organising Committee hopes that 8,000 officials,coaches and athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries, along with sports officialsfrom across the world, will also have wonderful experience about Vietnam.
At the flag-raising ceremony (Photo: VNA) The flag-hoisting ceremony was intended to giveencouragement to athletes, while promoting culture and people of Vietnam.
The 31st SEA Games, themed “For a Stronger SouthEast Asia”, features 40 sports with 523 events. The biennial event wasinitially slated for late 2021 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is scheduled to last until May 23./.
VNA
