HH Shaikh Isa bin Ali attends Asian Winter Games opening in Harbin

Beijing, Feb. 7 (BNA): His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) and Vice President of the Olympic Council of Asia for the 3rd Asian Youth Games, attended the opening ceremony of the 8th Asian Winter Games – Harbin 2025, accompanied by Faris Al Kooheji, Secretary General of BOC.

The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China; Thomas Bach, President of International Olympic Committee (IOC); and senior officials from the Olympic Council of Asia and national Olympic committees.

The event began with the hoisting of the Chinese national flag, followed by the parade of participating delegations, with Bahrain’s delegation entering second based on alphabetical order. 

The ceremony featured various performances showcasing Chinese culture, particularly that of Harbin, known for its distinct winter environment.

A special segment highlighted Asia’s cultural diversity through artistic displays representing participating countries and their traditional attire, reflecting unity and connection through sports. 

The ceremony concluded with the lighting of the Games’ torch in an innovative display at the Harbin international ice festival.