A festival promoting the Asian Games (ASIAD) 2018 was held by the Indonesian Embassy in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake on August 12, aiming to introduce the host country and the regional sporting event.

The mascot of ASIAD 2018 (Source: Antara)

The festival featured the music, dances and games of Indonesia, honoured the spirit of fair-play and encouraged teams to join ASIAD 2018.

The public event drew representatives from embassies in Hanoi, the Indonesian community in Hanoi, foreign tourists and locals. Participants also joined some street dances, including “Gemu Famire” and Poco poco”.

Earlier on August 10, the Indonesian Embassy in Hanoi held a cycling programme around Hoan Kiem district.

Themed “Energy of Asia,” ASIAD 2018 will highlight the diverse culture and heritage of participating countries.

The ASIAD 2018 host Indonesia has exerted efforts to prepare for the event, including improving its infrastructure, public transport and sanitation.

The event, taking place from August 18 to September 2, is expected to help promote the economy and tourism of Indonesia, especially the cities of Jakarta and Palembang.

ASIAD 2018 will see 45 countries and territories compete, including Afghanistan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Singapore, Thailand, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

The Vietnamese delegation will consist of 523 people, including 352 athletes. They aim to snatch at least three gold medals. 

At the previous ASIAD in 2014, Vietnam won one gold, 10 silver and 25 bronze medals, ranking 21st in the overall medal tally.