Editor's note: Ruqiya Anwar, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a PhD scholar of Media and Communication Studies in Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

As the world's gaze fixes upon the unfolding spectacle of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, it offers us a unique opportunity to appreciate the multifaceted nature of China's approach to diplomacy, sports and economic resurgence. This momentous occasion is graced by the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping, who will be attending the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games, a grand event taking place in Hangzhou starting today.

With approximately 12,000 participants hailing from 45 countries and regions across Asia, the Games serve as a resounding testament to unity among Asian nations. Additionally, they draw attention to China's unwavering commitment to the values of inclusivity, openness and the pursuit of economic revival through the strategic fusion of sport and diplomacy.

The picturesque host city, Hangzhou, is ready to catch the world's attention. It conveys a spirit of hospitality and readiness and is decorated with attractive advertisements depicting the event's mascots. The city's vitality underlines its effort to stand out as a welcoming host as visitors to Hangzhou talk about opening ceremony performances and famous sportsmen. Additionally, this fall's 19th Asian Games also herald a major diplomatic event. The inauguration ceremony will be attended by distinguished foreign leaders like King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao of Timor-Leste. Their participation denotes the world agreement to forge an Asian community with a shared future and acknowledges China's significant role in international sports and other matters.

The significance of such large-scale attendance arises from the recognition of China's standing in international sporting events and broader global challenges. It reflects these countries' desire to work with and coordinate with China to advance human growth on a variety of fronts.

The Asian Games, held every four years, have grown in importance as more than merely a sporting event. They have turned into a diplomatic platform for strengthening international relations and demonstrating Asian countries' solidarity. According to Professor Li Haidong of China Foreign Affairs University, this event is more than just a sporting competition; it is a major diplomatic action demonstrating Asian solidarity and commitment to a common destiny.

The Asian Games serve as a significant counter-narrative against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions and outside meddling in Asian affairs, particularly from U.S.-led Western powers. They underscore China's inclusive and open principles that are rooted in the spirit of sportsmanship while emphasizing Asia's collective resolve to resist outside disruptions. This event offers an opportunity for Asian nations to show solidarity, tenacity and perseverance in the face of external threats as geopolitical tensions are fanned by outside actors.

The Games, featuring 40 sports 61 disciplines and 483 gold medals, offer not just athletic greatness but also economic revitalization. They are consistent with China's ambitions of increasing public fitness, improving foreign understanding of the country and increasing its sporting competitiveness.

President Xi Jinping's participation in the Asian Games, as well as his presence at the Beijing Winter Olympics and the Chengdu Universiade, demonstrates his desire to raise China's sporting status. This strategic strategy, which includes hosting three major sporting events in less than two years, broadens China's expertise and enhances its sports infrastructure.

President Xi's optimism that sports play a crucial role in society, particularly in educating young people, has led China to set a high priority on the growth of its sports industries. President Xi has a particular interest in several sports, like swimming, mountain climbing, soccer, volleyball, basketball and tennis. This engagement goes beyond simple diplomacy, demonstrating a deeper appreciation of the contribution that sports provide to social development.

China has advanced significantly in sports during the past few decades, making advances at the Summer and Winter Olympics and attracting an extensive public to sports. This advancement has been made possible by the availability of sports facilities in localities all across the country, as well as by the expanded place of physical education in school curricula. Furthermore, President Xi's support for national strategies to promote public fitness has elevated athletics to a central tenet of the Chinese dream.

The event demonstrates China's dedication to regional openness, inclusivity, and solidarity. Additionally, it demonstrates the country's resiliency and resolve to resist outside interference and help advance an Asia that is peaceful and affluent in the future. The Games are a celebration of harmony, athletic prowess and diplomatic skill, and they serve as a reminder that athletics may reduce barriers and advance understanding, cooperation and peace on a global scale.

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