On Sunday night, the 15th National Games of the People’s Republic of China officially kicked off in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province on the Chinese mainland. Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, declared the Games open at a grand ceremony co-hosted by Guangdong and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions.
Running from November 9 to 21, this flagship sporting event brings together athletes from across the Chinese mainland, the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, and showcases a wide range of athletic disciplines. Beyond competition, the Games highlight the power of sport to unite, inspire, and drive national development.
Throughout his speeches, Xi Jinping has delivered clear, motivational messages on the role of sports in public life:
- "Mass sports are the bedrock of national health and vitality," he said, underscoring the link between physical activity and public wellbeing.
- "We must popularize sports to cultivate a resilient and dynamic society," Xi added, calling for broader participation at all levels.
- "Building a strong sporting nation mirrors our economic and cultural progress," he noted, framing athletic excellence as part of national strength.
These key messages reflect a broader vision: by promoting sports among all age groups, the Chinese mainland aims to boost public health, foster social cohesion, and cement its status as a leading sporting nation. The 15th National Games offer a real-world stage for this vision, blending tradition with innovation as athletes chase personal and collective glory.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs in sports tech, and travelers seeking fresh cultural experiences, the Games serve as a reminder that sport transcends borders—fueling health, driving economic pathways, and uniting communities. As the world watches, Guangzhou’s stadiums become a symbol of how mass sports can shape a stronger, more connected future.
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Xi Jinping's key quotes on promoting sports for a stronger nation
cgtn.com
