ATHENS, Sept. 16 (Xinhuanet) -- Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, president of the Athens 2004, on Thursday called on her staff to make joint efforts for the success of the 12th Paralympic Games that will open in the Greek capital on Friday.

    "Let us all work efficiently, everyone at their post, as we didfor the Olympic Games. These Games must be an important legacy for Paralympic Sports, for our society and also gladden our hearts," she said.

    The high-profile top representative of the local organizing committee, spoke at a launching ceremony for a documentary film onthe Paralympic Games and on the participation of Greek athletes. Produced by the Ministry of Culture and the Olympic Games General Secretariat, it was shown Thursday afternoon in the multi-use auditorium of the Zappeion Mansion.

    Also speaking at the event were Alternate Culture Minister FaniPalli-Petralia, Mayor of Athens Dora Bakoyianni, International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Phillip Craven, Minister of Health and Social Solidarity Giorgos Konstantopoulos and Olympic Games General Secretary Spyros Cappalos.

    Also present at the event was Sports Minister Giorgos Orfanos.     

    The Athens 2004 chief said at the ceremony: "Greece, the birthplace of the values of humankind, sport and Olympism, is hosting for the first time in its history the Paralympic Games.

    "'Aiming high', 3,700 top Paralympic athletes from 140 countries and regions have undergone tough training and are ready to provide us with thrilling moments and inspiration with their performances.

    "Together with them we are also aiming high as the 12th Paralympic Games cannot but be a continuation of the acclaimed success of the Olympic Games.

    "We have therefore set our sights high and are ready to meet the expectations of the athletes, the IPC, the supporters in Greece and abroad in hosting such an exceptional event.

    "Athens 2004 has worked with dedication, diligence, passion andin a systematic manner for the 12th Paralympic Games. For the first time we maintained the same organizational structure, the same people, preparing the two events simultaneously. We have secured the presence and accommodation of the Paralympic athletes without charging a fee, something that is happening for the first time in the world.

    "We have prepared state-of-the-art competition venues and the Paralympic Village in terms of organization, so that the athletes may be accommodated and compete in technically flawless conditions that are on a par with those of the Olympic Games.

    "This event will now focus the attention of all on the great performances of the athletes and not on their disability.

    "I am certain that this Broadcasting transmission that is being presented today to Media representatives, highlights the abilities and potential of athletes taking part in the 12th Paralympic Games that start officially tomorrow." Enditem