Macao held the flag-raising ceremony Wednesday in front of Macao Stadium to welcome the forthcoming 4th East Asian Games.

The 352-member Macao delegation doesn't have professional athletes and will compete in 16 events during the Oct. 29-Nov. 6 games with medal chances lying in in wushu, or martial arts, swimming and weightlifting.

"It's the first time for Macao to host such a big event. It's a pride for Macao people, and we are confident of making it the most successful East Asian Games ever. Let more people know Macao through the games," said Dr. Fernanando Chui Sai On, secretary of social affairs and culture of Macao SAR government.

The games will draw about 2,000 athletes from China, Japan, South Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Mongolia, Guam, Hong Kong of China, Macao of China and Chinese Taipei.

Source: Xinhua