JAKARTA, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Friday launched the relay of Asian Beach Games torch at the State Palace, days ahead of the games on Oct. 18 to 26 in Bali Island of Indonesia.

    Forty-five countries and regions with more than 3,000 athletes have confirmed their participation in the international games, according to the Bali Asian Beach Games Organizing Committee (BABGOC).

    In his speech, President Susilo said that the games could build harmony and togetherness in Asia.

    "Athletes from Asia come with friendship. There will be competitions to build a brotherhood among Asian nations, and the world," said Susilo.

    During the launch President Susilo hand in the torch, whose fire was taken from the natural source in Purwodadi of Cental Java, to a head of the contingent of the parade.

    Dozens of athletes will bring the torch in a parade to Bali Island.

    President Susilo is scheduled to open the games and Vice President Jusuf Kalla would attend the closing ceremony.

    Besides, scored of world's leaders will present at the games, said Subowo.

    Seventeen sports will be featured in the games: handball, kabaddi (traditional Indian team sport), pencak silat (Indonesia's traditional martial art), sepak takraw (a cross between volleyballand soccer), beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach wrestling, bodybuilding, dragon boat racing, jet skiing, marathon swimming, paragliding, sailing, surfing, triathlon, windsurfing and wood ball.

    Indonesia will send 214 athletes and 70 coaches to compete in all 17 sports. The country's athletes have been in Bali for training since last month.