VietNamNet Bridge – Amid growing suspicions about the costs spent on the Asian Games 2019 (ASIAD 2019) are not as “low” as the estimated US$150 million, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said it would not spend more than the estimate.

Phan Dinh Tan, deputy chief of the ministry’s office, said at the meeting held on March 25 that the ministry would carefully consider components it.

“For instance, instead of building a multipurpose sport hall at a cost of VND900 billion, we can consider using other halls, which only needs facility upgrades in preparation for ASIAD and will reduce spending in the midst of current economic difficulties,” Tan said.

In the past time, many experts have voiced their opinions that Vietnam should withdraw from the game and received a fine of some US$1 million to avoid overspending while Vietnam’s public debts are at an alarming level.

However, Tan said at the meeting that hosting ASIAD was the desire of not only the sport ministry but also other ministries. Besides, this is a chance to promote the country’s image, he added.

Besides, under the regulations, countries can refuse to host ASIAD only in case of war or crisis. South Korea and Pakistan transferred the hosting of ASIAD to Thailand in 1970 and 1978 due to wars.

According to the scheme to host ASIAD in 2019 Vietnam has presented to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), the event will be organized at a cost of US$150 million, make full use of existing facilities and efficiently mobilize resources of agencies and localities.

In addition, the Government has approved a plan to build infrastructure for the northern region. Vietnam will finish an inter-provincial road network and continue upgrading infrastructure in provinces and cities in the coming years.

Before ASIAD 2019 takes place, Vietnam will host the Asian Beach Games in 2016.

Source: SGT