Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed global leaders to Harbin with a powerful message of solidarity during the Ninth Asian Winter Games' opening banquet, blending sports diplomacy with Lunar New Year cheer 🐍✨. “Let ice and snow unite Asia’s dreams!” he declared, framing the event as a platform for shared growth and cultural exchange.
With over 40 countries and regions competing—a record turnout—Xi highlighted how China’s “passion for winter sports” has become a global force since Beijing 2022. He praised Harbin’s “Ice City” legacy, where frosty landscapes now drive eco-friendly tourism and tech innovation: “Ice and snow are as valuable as gold and silver.”
Themed “Dream of Winter, Love Among Asia,” the Games aim to showcase “Chinese charm and Asian vitality.” Xi urged nations to tackle security challenges “as pure as ice” while fostering economic collaboration. “Every snowflake is unique, just like our civilizations,” he added, celebrating diversity.
Timed with the Year of the Snake—symbolizing agility—Xi playfully urged athletes to “slither into victory.” His toast? To Olympic solidarity, human progress, and unforgettable “memories in Harbin’s winter wonderland.” ❄️🥂
