Xi, global leaders call for solidarity

Over 30 foreign heads of state, government and international organizations and members of royal families attended the opening ceremony on Friday night.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke at the banquet.

They offered their congratulations to the success of the opening ceremony on Friday, saying that they will never forget the outstanding and splendid showpiece.

The Chinese people are widely known for their efficiency, resolve and vitality, which have been demonstrated in their fight against COVID-19 and the hosting of the Beijing Winter Olympics, they said.

China has reached its goal of engaging 300 million people in winter sports, which will forever reshape the global landscape of ice and snow sports and benefit China and the rest of the world, they added.

They echoed Xi's appeal for stronger solidarity and cooperation in response to global challenges, saying that the global community should use the Beijing Winter Olympics as an opportunity to go beyond their differences and work together for a better shared future.