HANGZHOU, China, Sept 23, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the Asian Games open at a colourful ceremony in Hangzhou on Saturday, launching a two-week sporting extravaganza that boasts more athletes than the Olympics.

Xi, who was given a rapturous reception by spectators waving mini Chinese flags, said: "I declare the Hangzhou 19th Asian Games open."