Following the delegations' parade applauded by thousands of spectators, Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi in the role of a presenter, welcomed the audience to the historic stadium at the home of one of the most ancient civilizations of the world, beyond China.

"History continues today," she stressed, urging all citizens across the globe to be part of the celebration of an international family, as it happened during the 2007 Shanghai Special Olympics, watching brave athletes compete and show their special talents.

Twelve Special Olympics messengers, including a 20-year-old Chinese girl, briefly narrated their major wins in everyday life activities, such as learning how to cook tasty Chinese dishes or passing a driving license test in the first attempt.

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