Colourful opening ceremony for SAPOG

Bernard PERERA

The first ever South Asian Sea and Airport Games got off to a flying start at the Sugathadasa Stadium on a grand note. The Minister of Ports, Aviation and Agriculture Chamal Rajapaksa was the chief guest on the occasion.

A colourful cultural program too was displayed to show the participating teams. Sri Lankan culture which is also of vital importance to attract tourists as well as to unite people of the South Asian Region. Dilan Perera, the Chairman of the Organising Committee said that once the idea which was mooted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Minister for Ports and he discussed at length to put things in order.

The President's fullest co-operation was extended for the purpose and that is the reason it became a reality today. He said the theme for the SAPOG Games was decided to unite people for peace through sports. The theme for the Games being "Sports unite Ports" which will pave the way for workers of Ports to meet others through this game.

Perera thanked everyone who supported this cause. He paid a special tribute to sponsors and the media for their excellent support.

The Minister Chamal Rajapaksa declared open the Games.