Indonesia to host Asian Games in 2018

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) general assembly Saturday approved here that Indonesia will host the 2018 Asian Games, five months after the original host Vietnam backed out due to financial difficulties.

Rita Subowo, president of the Indonesian Olympic Committee, made a presentation at the OCA general assembly Saturday morning before their bid won the nod, reports Xinhua.

"Indonesia is ready to host the next Asian Games in 2018," Subowo told the OCA general assembly.

"It's our dreams to host again the Asian Games after 56 years. Now this is the chance for our youth generations to be able to participate, not only to compete, but also to be the host and welcome you all to our country," he added.

Subowo said much of the infrastructure needed was already in place and Jakarta's new airport and mass transit system would be finished by the time the games are held.

"Time is so short. That is the biggest challenge," she said. "So from now on we have to work hard and we need the support of our friends and colleagues, not only in Asia, but also from all over the world."