Chinese central authorities congratulate Paralympians

Source: Xinhua | 09-17-2008 18:50

BEIJING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- China's central authorities on Wednesday congratulated the Chinese Paralympians on their "historic breakthrough" and "significant contributions" to the Beijing Paralympic Games.

"We extend warm congratulations and heartfelt compliments to you, who have won immense glory for your country," read a congratulatory message jointly sent by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the State Council, China's cabinet.

The Chinese Paralympic delegation, which won 89 gold, 70 silver and 52bronze medals in Beijing, has "achieved a historic breakthrough," "written a new chapter of China's disabled sports development," and "made significant contributions to achieving the goal of 'Two Games, Equal Splendor'," the message noted.

The Chinese para-athletes, who topped both the gold and overall medal tables at these Games, have displayed an image of self-esteem, self-confidence, self-improvement and self-support of Chinese disabled people and demonstrated the Chinese nation's unyielding spirit, said the message.

They also carried forward the spirit of the Paralympics, promoted mutual understanding and friendship among people all over the world, and inspired people of all ethnic groups in the country, it said.

"The motherland and the people feel proud of you," it said.