Here in Beijing, Paralympic athletes from 46 different nations will compete with each other, not against each other.
Through sport they will showcase the best of humanity and highlight the values that should underpin a peaceful and inclusive world.
Paralympians know that an opponent does not have to be an enemy, and that united we can achieve more, much more.
Tonight, the Paralympic Movement calls on world authorities to come together, as athletes do, and promote peace, understanding and inclusion. The world must be a place for sharing, not for dividing.
