For three days now, competitions have been taking place in Azerbaijan as part of the III CIS Countries Games, although the official opening of the tournament was held last evening in Ganja. This is what caused some confusion in counting the first medals won by the 13 participating countries, but more on that later. First, about the opening ceremony. To say that it was unusual and traditionally colorful, like the opening of all major sporting events in our country, would be an understatement. The opening ceremony of the III CIS Countries Games was simply spectacular, bright, and memorable.
By the way, I don’t know who specifically selected the cities where the competitions would be held, but such a tournament as the CIS Countries Games is an excellent opportunity to showcase the regions of Azerbaijan, including those that were liberated from Armenian occupation.
After speeches by officials, athletes, judges, and coaches, and the tournament being declared open by Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev before the audience that almost completely filled the new Ganja Stadium, an artistic performance unfolded that had everything – a journey through the country’s history with realistically imitated bonfires and live camels, and a modern perception featuring the newly reunited duo of Eldar Gasymov and Nigar Jamal in an unusual outfit. And of course, a delightful installation with drones, culminating in a simply magnificent fireworks display. The organizers of this festive evening proved that they are capable of creating a quality show not only in the capital but also in the regions.
