Athletes from schools in ASEAN countries join the opening ceremony of the 13th ASEAN Schools Games 2024 in Đà Nẵng City. More than 1,300 athletes and coaches will be competing in six sports for 107 medal sets on June 1-7. VNS Photo Công Thành

ĐÀ NẴNG — Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà officially announced the opening of the 13th ASEAN Schools Games (ASG) 2024 in the central city of Đà Nẵng 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), Indonesia expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the host country of the 13th ASEAN Schools Games in Đà Nẵng 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.

“The ASEAN Schools Games is more than just a sports event; it serves as a platform for fostering friendships, understanding diverse cultures, and building a sense of community among our nations. Through these games, we aim to promote not only excellence in sports but also the values of mutual respect, teamwork, and solidarity,” he added.

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

Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà (fifth from right) and officials participate in the opening ceremony of 13th ASEAN Schools Games 2024 in Đà Nẵng City. Photo courtesy of ASEAN Schools Games

Minister of Education and Training of Việt Nam, Nguyễn Kim Sơn 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’.

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

Chairman of Đà Nẵng City’s people’s committee, Lê Trung Chinh said the games marked as the second time that Việt Nam has hosted the ASEAN Schools sport event, and Đà Nẵng was chosen as the venue for the Games.

He said the city committed to create the best conditions for all students and athletes during the week-long competition.

The games would be memorable experience and time for all visitors exploring pristine beaches and stunning natural landscapes of Đà Nẵng.

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