13th CJSOI Games Officially Opened at Paradise Arena with Calls for Unity and Peace

VICTORIA, Seychelles — The 13th edition of the Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien, CJSOI, Games was officially launched on Saturday evening at the Paradise Arena with a vibrant opening ceremony that brought together the youth of seven Indian Ocean nations. President Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by First Lady Linda Ramkalawan, officials and sporting personalities from the region, honoured the event with their presence.

The evening began with the traditional parade of delegations, followed by the official song of the Games, before remarks were addressed to the youth. “You are the beating heart of these Games. This historic moment represents for me more than a simple sporting or cultural rendezvous. It symbolises friendship, fraternity and solidarity between our youth, between our peoples and between our Indian Ocean nations,” said President Ramkalawan. He highlighted the government’s commitment, which created a true Village of the Games to welcome the delegations with dignity, comfort and positivity.

The Minister for Youth, Sports and Family, Marie-Céline Zialor, addressed the youth and insisted on the importance of tolerance and friendship in sport. “Do not forget that tolerance and friendship must occupy a central place in your personal success in these Games. We believe in you, in your capacities to innovate and to show us that sport is the path to peace and cohesion.” The ceremony also featured a cultural performance, with the President inviting all to make these Games an unforgettable moment for each participant, before the next edition scheduled for Djibouti in 2029.

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