Indonesia’s president Joko Widodo made a dramatic entry to Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, riding a motorbike, before opening Indonesia’s second hosting of the Asiad.
The opening ceremony included spectacular pyrotechnic show and simulated volcanic eruption.
“We are proud, we are honoured by the arrival of the special guests from 45 countries… During the 18th Asian Games we, the nations of Asia, want to show that we are one in brotherhood.”, Widodo told a crowd of 50,000.
According to The Indian Express, “The climax of the ceremony came when former Olympic badminton champion Susi Susanti carried the Games’ torch to the summit of the volcano and set off a spectacular display of fireworks.”
“Some 13,000 athletes from 45 national Olympic committees will compete in 40 sports and 67 disciplines in the biggest multi-sport extravaganza outside Olympics with the schedule including new events ranging from bridge to roller skating.”, reported The Indian Express.
