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PRESIDENT MARTIN VIZCARRA: “LIMA 2019 MAKES PERUVIANS FEEL PROUD”
Vizcarra praised the achievements of the Pan American Games in terms of sports and public management.
Peruvian President Martín Vizcarra highlighted that organizing and carrying out the Lima 2019 Pan American and Parapan American Games was an immense challenge that was finally overcome.
A cheering crowd chanted “We can do it” during the opening of new road infrastructure at Avenida La Esperanza, joining former Fundo Barbadillo and Valle Amauta, in the district of Ate Vitarte. The president replied by saying, “Of course we can!” and recalled when “two or three years ago, pessimists would tell us that we wouldn’t be able to carry out the Games. They’d say, ‘We can’t do it.’”
He stressed that the Government and the people have shown that it is possible. “When there is determination, honesty and transparency, we can do it,” he insisted.
Meanwhile, he explained that Peruvians can take pride and feel satisfied with Lima 2019 for two reasons, both in terms of public management and sporting achievements.
“First, because this shows that we can carry out a world-class competition. Not only those athletes competing, but also those who came to watch the competitions. They’re amazed by the quality of the sports premises.”
He also remarked that, although the Pan American Games are about to end, all the infrastructure built will remain for the people, in order to continue working and promoting sports. “Besides, these Pan American Games have brought us the pride of seeing Peruvian men and women who compete and keep winning medals day after day.”
Finally, he reflected upon the record number of medals claimed by Peru at Lima 2019 compared to the previous Games, Toronto 2015. He stressed that this achievement reflects the unity and drive of all Peruvians.
“Only four years ago, at the previous Pan American Games, Peruvian athletes made a huge effort, yet they only managed 12 medals. We already overtook that number, and there’s still more to come, so we’ll end up with more than 20, even 30 medals on this occasion. This means we are improving because we are working together. There are no limits for us if we keep working together.”