New Delhi, 18 October (H.S.): Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi formally welcomed athletes and officials from across Asia on the occasion of the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Para Games. The seven-day sporting event is being held from October 18 to 24, featuring competitions across 18 sports.

In a message posted on the social media platform X, Takaichi said Japan was hosting the Asian Para Games for the first time. Describing the event, held every four years, as Asia’s largest celebration of para-sports, she expressed gratitude to everyone involved in organising the Games and extended a warm welcome to participants from countries and regions across the continent.

Offering her best wishes to the athletes, Takaichi wrote, “I hope the athletes will challenge their limits, demonstrate mutual respect and cooperation, and showcase their full potential on this premier Asian platform. Their determination to continually overcome challenges and persevere until the very last moment will help raise public awareness of the strengths and possibilities of para-sports.”

The Japanese Prime Minister also acknowledged the contributions of the athletes’ families and the many people who support them. She said that over the seven days leading up to October 24, Asia’s leading para-athletes would compete in exciting contests across 18 sports.

Wishing all participants success, Takaichi expressed hope that the Games would become a memorable occasion, inspiring courage and determination among people across the region.

This edition of the Asian Para Games marks a historic milestone, with all 45 participating countries and regions represented for the first time. The development is being viewed as a significant achievement in advancing inclusion, solidarity and the growing reach of the para-sports movement across Asia.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar