Closing ceremony of Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games held

TOKYO - Under the concept of "Harmonious Cacophony," the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games closed on Sunday in celebration of a peaceful and inspirational grand finale amid the surging COVID-19 pandemic.

Approximately 2,000 athletes and team officials of 162 participating National Paralympic Committees, along with 850 Games stakeholders and guests of honor, and 2,250 media personnel attended the closing ceremony at Tokyo's Olympic Stadium.

President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Andrew Parsons declared the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games closed as he believed the Tokyo Paralympic Games have "not just been historic, they have been fantastic."

"After eight remarkable years, I cannot believe our time is almost done," Parsons said. "What a journey. What sport. What a Games. What more can I say than arigato, Tokyo."

"Together, against the odds, we did it."

"In 12 magical days, athletes gave the world confidence, happiness and hope," the IPC chief added. "Athletes broke records. Athletes warmed hearts. Athletes opened minds. Athletes changed lives."