The head of Japan's delegation in the Harbin Asian Winter Games, Masahiko Harada, has praised the success of the Games, highlighting top-notch facilities and a warm welcome, as Asian athletes gain prominence on the global stage ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
In an exclusive interview with CGTN, Harada elaborated on the Games' successful organization and the rapid advancement of Asian athletes in winter sports.
"Although it was very cold here, everyone welcomed me very warmly. That makes me feel very good. Every venue here has great facilities that allow athletes to give 100 percent of their strength, and I am very proud," he said.
Meanwhile, he noted that athletes from Asian countries are playing increasingly significant roles in international competitions and stressed the need for countries to work together and support athletes.
"We are very happy to see athletes from Asian countries like China and South Korea play greater roles in international games. We hope that we can work together, train together and make progress together. Asian athletes will surely have better development, either in skiing or skating. We should work together to support our athletes," he explained.
With the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games just a year out, Japan is already gearing up for the competition, according to Harada.
"The athletes this time are very young, and there are also athletes who are aiming for medals in Milan. They, including those from Japan, are very active. Athletes are performing well here. I think this paves the way to Milan. Those who will compete for medals at Milano Cortina next year, are figure skaters Sakamoto Kaori and Kagiyama Yuma, I hope, you will remember their names," he said.
Harbin Asian Winter Games earn high praise from Japan's delegation head
