Kazakhstan ranks among continental powers able to host high-quality sporting events

ASTANA-ALMATY. February 6. KAZINFORM. Head of State Nursultan Nazarbayev has attended the closing ceremony of the 7th Asian Games at the Baluan Sholak Sports Palace, Almaty, the Presidential press service reports.

"Delivering a speech the President highlighted that the Asian Games became a big event in the country's international life. The best athletes of Asia from 27 countries contested for 69 sets of medals which is a record. Today, Kazakhstan ranks among continental powers able to host high-quality competitions. Asiad is the true triumph of strength, beauty and honor. We could make the sports festival a holiday of peace and friendship."

"The opening ceremony took place in Astana. The guests saw the Medeu high-mountain skating rink. The first torch relay of the Asian Games travelled around Kazakhstan. The Olympic Council of Asia decided to make the relay regular. We say goodbye to the 7^th Asian Games. Those days gave us brilliant and unforgettable moments," the Head of State said.

The President of Kazakhstan declared the Games closed.

Following the results of the Asian Games Kazakhstan tops the medal standing. The country's sportsmen captured 32 gold, 21 silver and 17 bronze medals. Japan comes second with 13 gold, 24 silver and 17 bronze medals. South Korea stands third with 13 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze medals. China occupies the fourth place with 11 gold, 10 silver and 14 bronze medals.