Opening ceremony of int'l gymnastics tournament held in Baku

The opening ceremony of the 12^th FIG Acrobatic Gymnastics World Age Group Competitions has been held in Baku, Report informs.

The event at the National Gymnastics Arena was attended by Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Mariana Vasileva, member of the Executive Committee of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) Youssef Al-Tabbaa and others.

First, the flags of the participating countries were brought to the arena.

Vasileva greeted all the participants and said she was glad to see them again in Baku. Noting that the opening ceremony coincided with Sports Week, she said the event brought together 438 gymnasts from 24 countries. On behalf of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Vasileva wished everyone success, good health, new victories and peace in the world.

Youssef Al-Tabbaa said it was a great honour for him to speak at the opening ceremony on behalf of FIG President Morinari Watanabe. He expressed his deep gratitude to the FIG staff, the local organizing committee, volunteers and everyone who contributed to the event.

Then the National Anthem of Azerbaijan was played.

The 12th FIG Acrobatic Gymnastics World Age Group Competitions will end on March 6.