VietNamNet Bridge – The 18th Asian Games (ASIAD 18) will cost Vietnam an estimated VND15-16 trillion to hold, which will be paid by both the state and private capital, said Head of the General Department of Sports and Physical Training Vuong Bich Thang.

Mr. Vuong Bich Thang, Head of the General Department of Sports and Physical Training.

The Hanoi People’s Committee has been working in conjunction with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on preparations for the event.

According to Thang, between now and August 15, the department will receive opinions from ministries and agencies for holding the event, before submitting an official proposal to the prime minister.

“The infrastructure necessary to hold the games is currently at about 80%," he said. "The municipality of Hanoi has allocated land for construction of several large projects, including a village for the athletes."

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has also requested that all the facilities for the games be carefully checked in order to ensure that the event runs smoothly. The intention is that any upgrades or extra construction should be addressed before ASIAD 18 is held.

Asked about the use of sports facilities specifically built for ASIAD 18 after the event, he said that in light of Hanoi's goal of having 28% of the population involved in sports activities, the facilities can be put to good use in the future. He added that currently the city lacks sufficient facilities to meet this demand.

The effective use of new works require cooperation among culture, sports, tourism and education sectors, he said, explaining that these facilities should be open to students and other residents after their initial use.

“This official proposal will be submitted to municipal authorities. I think that sports projects created for ASIAD 18 will be put to good use use after the games are over, and be beneficial to the lives of Hanoi's residents,” Thang noted.

Vietnam will host ASIAD 18 in 2019.

Source: DTriNews