Asian Games officially open in Japan

The 20th Asian Games were formally inaugurated in Nagoya on Saturday, with Japanese Emperor Naruhito declaring the continent's premier multi-sport event open in a ceremony that showcased the host nation's culture through music, dance and fireworks.

The declaration took place at the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in the presence of IOC President Kirsty Coventry, and it marked Japan's third time hosting Asia's largest multi-sport event after Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994. Furthermore, the ceremony featured performances celebrating Japanese traditions and was followed by the athletes' parade. Subsequently, a fireworks display brought the two-hour programme to a close.

More than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions are competing in 43 sports and 71 disciplines, with the Games scheduled to continue until October 4. Bangladesh, meanwhile, is fielding 187 athletes in 22 sports, and its flag-bearers at the ceremony were shooter Abdullah Hel Baki and karateka Humaira Akter Antara.

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The Games are being staged under the theme "Imagine One Asia", with competitions taking place in Nagoya and at other venues in and around Aichi. Consequently, the event will remain the focal point of the continent's sporting calendar for the next fortnight.