Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday said it was indeed a proud moment for India to host the 19th edition of Commonwealth Games in the historic city of New Delhi.

"Welcome to India, welcome to these Games. The people of India are delighted to host the 19th edition of Commonwealth Games in this historic city of Delhi," the PM said in his welcome speech at the three-hour-long dazzling opening show.      

"It is a proud moment for all our countrymen. I convey my warm greetings to all members (of Commonwealth) in this august gathering in Commonwealth Games fraternity," he said.      

Wishing all the participating sportspersons a memorable Commonwealth Games, Singh said, "Enjoy our hospitality, enjoy the Games, enjoy the incredible sound and sights of India.

"Millions are waiting eagerly to watch the Games unfold and celebrate the sporting excellence. The Games will see contest, human skill and above all of courage and uphold the spirit the Commonwealth and seeds of equality and friendship."      

The Prime Minister ended his speech saying that may the Games be successful in establishing a bond of unity.      

"This is an occasion to essential spirit of Commonwealth Games. May this spread peace equality among all people of nations. May this participation will spread friendship and good will, understanding that will unite us as one large family more than winning or losing.

"My wishes to sportspersons, organisers for a memorable 19th Commonwealth Games," he said.

Ready to host "successful" Games

Despite the controversies, delays and challenges in the run-up to the Commonwealth Games, India had risen to the occassion and is set to deliver a successful Games, both CGF chief Mike Fennell and Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi said.
     
Kalmadi, who is also Indian Olympic Association president, also thanked then Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee during whose term India won the bid to host the Commonwealth Games.

Hailing the effort of the Organising Committee in pulling off the spectacular show, CGF supremo Fennell said, "The preparation has been filled with many challenges but the focus was on the competition of athletes. But the OC worked tirelessly to prepare these Games. I commend their efforts in putting together the Games."

"A big congratulation to the organising committee, may the Games be a tremendous succcess ... Over the next 11 days, we will witness the finest athletes from 71 competing to glory not only in pursuit of medals but friendship," Fennell said in his address.

Thanking the volunteers for the tireless work, he said, "They worked together in one common view for a successful Games. Also to the people of Delhi ... You have welcomed us with traditional hospitality.

"Athletes have been touched by your kindness and your enthusiasm in being good hosts. friendship can be achieved through true sport in the midst of adversity," Fennell said.      

Kalmadi thanked the 71 Commonwealth countries for keeping faith to India despite the problems the Organising Committee in the run-up to the Games.

"Despite the bad publicity, all Commonwealth association stood by India as Delhi 2010 becomes the largest ever in the history of Commowealth Games," said Kalmadi.

"The IOA had a dream to make India sport-conscious, embrace all sports with passion. Former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi had successfully hosted the Asian Games ... The Games will also contribute significantly to the Indian economy. More than 6,800 athletes from all 71 nations have put their faith on India. A new champion will be born in Delhi."