In a grand celebration of winter sports and international camaraderie, Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, alongside his wife Peng Liyuan, hosted a welcoming banquet in Harbin on February 7, 2025. The event marked the official reception of dignitaries attending the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games.
Premier Xi extended warm greetings to attendees, including IOC President Thomas Bach and OCA Vice President Timothy Tsun Ting Fok, emphasizing the significance of Harbin as a beacon of ice and snow culture. \"The passion in China for ice and snow has swept across the nation, invigorating winter sports around the world,\" he remarked.
Highlighting the event's theme, \"Dream of Winter, Love among Asia,\" Xi stressed the shared aspirations for peace, development, and friendship among Asian nations. He underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing global security challenges and fostering inclusive economic globalization.
Premier Xi lauded Harbin as the birthplace of China's modern winter sports, noting its transformation into a hub for ice and snow culture and economy. \"The ice and snow culture and economy are becoming a new driving force for the high-quality development of Harbin and a new bond linking the city and the world,\" he stated.
As China entered the Year of the Snake, Xi drew parallels between the zodiac's symbolism of wisdom and agility with the athletes' performance. He wished all participants excellence and unforgettable memories in Harbin.
Raising a toast, Premier Xi celebrated the success of the Ninth Asian Winter Games, the dynamic development of the Olympic Movement, the solidarity and friendship of the Asian people, and the health of all distinguished guests and their families. \"Cheers!\" he concluded.
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Full text of Xi's remarks at Asian Winter Games welcoming banquet
cgtn.com
