Chairman congratulates the Lao public

SEA Games Organising Committee Chairman Somsavat Lengsavad said after the closing ceremony of the 25th SEA Games on Friday he was really proud of the way the Lao people had followed government and Party guidelines on security, cleanliness, and other aspects of the games.

“In general, most Lao people proved to be good hosts. This pleased the delegations visiting Vientiane and they were happy and enjoyed our hospitality. This is something I'm really proud of.”

During an interview Mr Somsavat said participating leaders and delegations had congratulated Laos on organising an excellent event. They had expressed their pleasure at the hospitality they had been given, the level of security, the appearance of Vientiane , and the people's warm smiles.

They agreed to entrust Laos with future major sporting events.

“The games brought the Lao people together with one heart as they cheered on Lao athletes. Many people watched the events and stood for the national anthem at football matches and whenever we won a gold medal,” Mr Somsavat said.

The 25th SEA Games ran from December 9-18 in Vientiane , with the goal of promoting solidarity and friendship among Asean nations and Timor Leste. During the games the people of Vientiane did their best to make everyone feel welcome and to ensure the visiting delegations' needs were met.

“Winning medals is not as important as the solidarity of all the participating nations. The Lao people took the SEA Games slogan of “generosity, amity and a healthy lifestyle” to heart. Their honesty and generous spirit showed our guests the true nature of Laos ,” he said.

Mr Somsavat also thanked the thousands of people who took part in the opening and closing ceremonies. These shows gave visitors an insight into the great culture and traditions of the Lao people over the years.

“Many other groups also played a part in making the games a success, including those involved in security, hospitality, and transportation. The media were fully involved in promoting the games around the world through newspapers, radio and television, and on the website.”

He said many letters of congratulations had been sent to the government by Lao people living overseas after they had watched the games.

Mr Somsavat said he believed the SEA Games would serve to improve Lao sport in the future, because of the high standard of the various sporting venues.

The Chairman of the Asian Olympics Committee had said during the closing ceremony that more big sporting events would be held in Laos in the years to come.

By Souknilundon Southivongnorath
(Latest Update December 21 , 2009)