The Vietnamese government attaches importance to the expansion of sports and considers it an important element for the physical development of the Vietnamese people, said Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Khiem.

At a reception of 42 heads of sport delegations to the ongoing third Asian Indoor Games (AIG 3) in Hanoi on Nov. 2, Deputy PM Khiem noted that Vietnam is honoured to host the AIG 3, which demonstrates the solidarity of Asian nations and territories through athletic competition.

He took this opportunity to convey his thanks to the International Olympic Committee and the Asian Olympic Council for their help and for creating the conditions for Vietnam to organise the games.

Honourable Vice President of the Asian Olympic Council Wei Jizhong, on behalf of the chief delegates, said this event is a chance for countries to understand the land and people of Vietnam and witness the country’s development, particularly in sports./.