(KPL/VNA) Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha officially announced the opening of the 13th ASEAN Schools Games (ASG) 2024 in the central city of Da Nang on June 1.

In his address, he extended his best wishes to all athletes, encouraging them to compete with sportsmanship, honesty, solidarity, and friendship for the successful Games.

Bayu Rahadian, on behalf of the Chairman of the ASEAN Schools Sports Council (ASSC), expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the host country of the 13th ASEAN Schools Games in Da Nang city.

He stressed that the host’s exceptional hospitality and warm welcome have truly made this event a memorable experience for all delegates.

“We come together to honour the principles of sportsmanship, unity, and cultural exchange that define the 13th ASEAN Schools Games,” he said.

Bayu Rahadian emphasised these games stand as a testament to collective vision of peace, friendship, and collaboration among our nations.

Minister of Education and Training of Vietnam Nguyen Kim Son expressed great admiration for the 13th ASEAN Schools Games, recognising it as the premier sporting event for ASEAN students, promoting unity, international friendship, respect, and mutual understanding among countries, all in support of students' harmonious physical and mental development.

He said the games will help build a young generation of ASEAN integration and development as well as providing opportunities for students from ASEAN countries exchanging and connecting with spirit of ‘Connect to shine bright’.

Son said the 13th ASG features as a symbol of unity, the role of school sports in the physical development of ASEAN students.

Chairman of Da Nang city’s People’s Committee Le Trung Chinh said the city committed to create the best conditions for all students and athletes during the week-long competition.

Athletes will be competing with tough games in basketball, swimming, athletics, badminton, pencak silat, and vovinam from June 1-7.

KPL