Team Fiji was welcomed by the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games chairman of the executive committee Dayanch Gulgeldiyev through a flag raising ceremony at the games village in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan yesterday.

Team Fiji chef de mission Sale Sorovaki presented Guldeldiyev a traditional iTaukei war club and tanoa.

Gulgeldiyev said sports play a vital role in not only strengthening ties between countries but at the same time educates young athletes on good sportsmanship and healthy living.

He is confident the competition will showcase quality performances by the athletes.

“This kind of sporting event is a good opportunity to prove that there are many talented athletes out there,” Gulgeldiyev said.

“Their performances demonstrate the hard work that the athletes have put in and the AIMAG event is a perfect platform to showcase that.

“Not only does sport bring people together but it strengthen ties between countries and can also play a main role in educating the youths of our society on the importance of sports development and healthy living.

“I’ve no doubt that the competition will feature quality games and I express my gratitude to the National Olympic Committee of each country for bringing their country in.”

Team Fiji were welcomed by traditional Turkmen dances and were given fruits as well. –

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