The Prime Minister has instructed the Ministry of Finance to advance VND574 billion from the State budget for upgrade projects for Asian Indoor (AI) Games III to be held in Vietnam late this year.

The PM agreed in principle the appointment of contractors for projects to upgrade facilities and venues for AI Games III at the request of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

He asked relevant ministers and chairmen of the people’s committees of cities and provinces where competitions will take place to proceed with bidding procedures in a lawful manner to ensure these projects will be completed on time.

About 1,000 officials and 5,000 coaches and athletes from 45 countries and territories in Asia will take part in the regional sporting games. The athletes will compete in 20 official events and a performance event.

The games will be held in Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hai Duong, Hai Phong, Quang Ninh and Ho Chi Minh City. A newly-built sports complex will be inaugurated on September 2.

VietNamNet/VOV