Haiyang, China: The first Team Welcome Ceremony of the 3rd Asian Beach Games was held at Flag Plaza on Tuesday morning when athletes and officials from host country China were officially welcomed into the Athletes’ Village. After the flag of the Olympic Council of Asia had been raised, and the anthem played, Village Mayor Li Yingzuo said the various service teams were fully prepared to welcome the delegations into the Athletes’ Village and provide a “meticulous” service to the residents before and during the June 16-22 Games.

He said the Games slogan, “Share the Joy”, would enhance understanding and friendship, and that the priority of the Games organisers and Village staff was the safety and well-being of the athletes from the 45 National Olympic Committees.

Village Mayor Li exchanged gifts with the Chef de Mission of China, Mr. Feng Jianzhong, Vice President of the Chinese Olympic Committee. China will be competing in 12 of the 13 sports - missing only the South Asian favourite kabaddi – and will have a delegation of around 230 athletes and officials. The other 44 Team Welcome Ceremonies will be held at Flag Plaza between June 13-15.