Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan pose for a group photo with international dignitaries in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 7, 2025. Photo: Xinhua

In his address to a welcome banquet held for international dignitaries in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Xi said the theme of the Games -- "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia" -- embodies Asian people's shared aspiration and desire for peace, development and friendship.

He also stressed the shared pursuit of prosperity and development, calling on Asian people to work together to promote progress and development, and provide sustained momentum for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

To realize the common wish of friendship and affinity, Xi called for promoting inclusiveness, coexistence and mutual learning among diverse civilizations.

The 9th Asian Winter Games taking place from February 7 to February 14 is the largest games ever, with more than 1,200 athletes from 34 countries and territories competing.