Nagoya, Japan, October 04 (QNA) - HE President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani invited Asian youth to meet again in Doha in four years, when Qatar hosts the 21st Asian Games in 2030, emphasizing that passing the Asian Games from Japan to Qatar embodies the extension of the Games' mission and values ​​across the continent.

In his remarks at the closing ceremony of the 20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026), HE Sheikh Joaan said: "Our hearts and homes are open to all of Asia, and everyone is welcome in Doha, the city for everyone." He added that Qatar invites the youth of Asia to carry this spirit with them as they look forward to meeting again in four years at the 21st Asian Games, Doha 2030. The Games will journey from East to West, from Japan to Qatar, to spread its values ​​and ensure that every corner of Asia experiences this celebration of sport.

His Excellency commended the outstanding standards witnessed during this edition of the Games, which saw the breaking of over 350 records, including more than 50 world records, emphasizing that this figure sets a new record for the Asian Games.

HE the OCA President noted that the Aichi-Nagoya competitions featured dramatic comebacks and last-minute victories, alongside the emergence of a new generation of young stars and the continued success of experienced champions. The athletes also demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship and mutual respect throughout the events.

His Excellency congratulated the Organizing Committee for the 20th Asian Games (Aichi-Nagoya 2026), the Japanese Olympic Committee, Aichi Prefecture, the City of Nagoya, and the Japanese government on organizing the Games and providing an opportunity for Asia's athletes to showcase their best performances.

His Excellency also commended the efforts of the 45 Asian National Olympic Committees in supporting their athletes, as well as the contributions of partners, sponsors, and broadcasters in bringing the Games' competitions to the public, while praising the support provided by the residents of Aichi, Nagoya, and the co-hosting cities, and the efforts of the thousands of volunteers throughout the Games.

His Excellency emphasized that the conclusion of Aichi-Nagoya 2026 does not mark the end of the Games' achievements, but rather the beginning of a new era for Asian sport, saying that as they lower the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 flag tonight, they bring these Games to a close, yet they raise the bar for Asian sport. The flame may be extinguished, but the hopes it ignited will continue to glow across Asia. (QNA)