A show of solidarity in a fractured world, Games look to unite the continent

Timothy Tsun Ting Fok, OCA first vice-president, recalled that discussions about bringing the Beach Games to Hainan began eight years ago, but were delayed by COVID.

"The delay has actually helped improve all the development," Fok said. "Yesterday, we saw a wonderful opening of these Games. I think it really reflects the kind of development and energy of the city. In spite of all the trouble in the world, we have full membership of 45 countries and regions coming."

Wednesday evening's opening ceremony, Xiang said, "used the sky as a curtain and the sea as a backstage", blending Asian diversity, Chinese cultural heritage, Hainan's openness and Sanya's romantic beauty. He specifically cited a sand-collecting ceremony that symbolized mutual support among Asian countries and regions.

Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Olympic Council of Asia, said at the opening ceremony that the Games promised to be truly exceptional, and that the island paradise will welcome the finest athletes to showcase the highest level of competition amid breathtaking natural beauty.

Al Musallam also praised China's long-term commitment to the Olympic movement, noting that the country has hosted multiple Asian Games — Beijing 1990, Guangzhou 2010 and Hangzhou 2023 — and is now hosting two within almost one year: the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin in February 2025 and, now, the 2026 Asian Beach Games in Sanya.

"The commitment of China, not only at the national level, but also at the international level, has a positive impact on what we are reaching here: the unity and solidarity of the Asian Olympic Movement," he said.

Song Luzeng, OCA vice-president and chair of the OCA Sports Committee, noted that the Games' program reflects Asia's diversity — popular sports like 3x3 basketball and beach volleyball, traditional events like dragon boat racing and kabaddi, and youth-oriented sports like climbing and sailing.

"The sports program has taken into account various characteristics," Song said.

Ding Ning, chair of the OCA Athletes' Committee and a former table tennis world champion, confirmed that 45 countries and regions are competing across 14 sports, 15 disciplines and 62 events, with 62 gold medals at stake.

As of Tuesday, athlete registration stood at 1,635 — 959 men and 676 women.

In terms of the venues, Xiang said organizers have prioritized post-Games re-use, converting existing facilities and renting equipment rather than buying new.

"If venues can be modified, we do not build," he said. "If equipment can be rented, we do not buy."

Fok, reflecting on the overall execution, added: "The venues are wonderful, but also remain in keeping with sustainability and low carbon (goals)."