Sanya, China, April 30 (QNA) - HE President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani has declared the 6th Asian Beach Games, "Sanya 2026", officially closed during a ceremony held at Yasha Park.

In his closing remarks, he described the Sanya edition as "exceptional", saying Asia had created a historic moment through unity. "Together, as one Asia, we made history. Through our love of sport and our shared dream, we have shown the very best of Asia," he said.

He added that the host city had risen to the occasion, strengthening its presence on the global stage, and praised the efforts of the organizing committee, the Chinese Olympic Committee, and the government of China.

"I have no doubt this will be the first of many major sporting events to be hosted by Sanya," he said. "As this edition comes to a close, the spirit of Sanya will remain with us, reminding us that when Asia unites, anything is possible."

The ceremony also included the handover of the OCA flag. The mayor of Sanya passed it to the president of the Chinese Olympic Committee, who then handed it to HE Sheikh Joaan, before it was presented to Abraham Tolentino, marking the transition to Cebu, the Philippines, which will host the next edition in March 2028. (QNA)