New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Sunday that hosting the 19th Commonwealth Games was "a proud moment" for Indians. He invited the thousands of foreign participants in the Games to enjoy "the incredible sights and sounds of India".
"Welcome to India! Welcome to the Games!," the prime minister said addressing a mammoth gathering at a grand opening at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
"I invite all our guests - who have come from every corner of the world - to enjoy our hospitality, to enjoy the Games and to enjoy the incredible sights and sounds of India. Millions of people are waiting eagerly to watch this great sporting spectacle unfold," he said.
"The people of India are delighted to host the 19th Commonwealth Games in the historic city of Delhi. It is a proud moment for all our countrymen," he said.
He conveyed his " warm greetings to each member of this august gathering of the Commonwealth sporting fraternity".
"Over the next two weeks, we will celebrate and honour sporting excellence on the playing fields. We will see contests of human skill and endurance but above all of courage and character," he said, as the crowd cheered him loudly.
"The Games are an occasion to uphold and renew the essential spirit of the Commonwealth that seeks to promote peace, equality and friendship among all people and nations."
Manmohan Singh, who clearly enjoyed the glittering ceremony showcasing India's rich culture and traditions, saluted sportspersons.
It was the participation and sportsmanship "more than winning or losing, which will strengthen the cherished ties of goodwill and understanding that unite us as one family.
"I convey my best wishes to all the sportspersons, organisers and fans for a very successful and memorable 19th Commonwealth Games."
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