PHOTO GALLERY Moldovan president hands over flag to national team for participation in Olympic Games

Chisinau, July 16 /MOLDPRES/- President Maia Sandu today handed over the state flag to the National Olympic Team for participation in the Olympic Games in Paris. The official wished success to the 26-strong national Olympic team, which will compete in 10 events.

The official ceremony took place at the Presidency. The country's flag at the Olympic Games in Paris will be carried by archers Dan Olaru and Alexandra Mîrca.

The head of state urged the athletes to carry the flag with dignity. She emphasized that the authorities will continue the efforts to ensure better training conditions for the athletes.

"You are the best and I want you to hear that here at the Presidency and I speak on behalf of the whole nation. Only the best athletes get to participate in the Olympic Games. For each of you this is an achievement and for us it is national pride. After thousands of hours of hard work and sacrifice, participation in the Olympic Games is a fitting reward. It is every top athlete's dream to medal at this competition. I know you will fight with all your heart, to compete fairly, to show the Moldovan spirit. In recent years, the state has been trying to do more for performance sport, increasing scholarships and good training conditions. We still have a lot to do, but we are committed to it. Thanks to the coaches who work as hard as you do and know how to raise champions. Thank you to your families for supporting you in your endeavors. The country's flag is a symbol of the hopes of fellow citizens, a symbol of unity. I urge you to carry the flag with dignity, to be guided by discipline, perseverance and team spirit. We wish you success and we look forward to welcoming you home with love and joy," said Maia Sandu.

Minister of Education and Research Dan Perciun congratulated the athletes. 

National Olympic and Sports Committee President Nicolae Juravschi noted that the team is mobilized to compete at the highest level. "I urge you to give all necessary support during the Olympic Games. Participating in the competition is a result achieved through hardships, that's why the feeling of pride is double," said Nicolae Juravschi.

Archer Dan Olaru said that it is a huge honor to carry the country's flag. 

The 33rd Summer Olympic Games will be held in Paris from July 26 to August 11. A total of 10,500 athletes will compete in 32 events.