The President of the Republic addressed a message to the paralympic athletes, paralympic committee and technical teams at the beginning of the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Following is the text of the congratulatory message sent by President Cavaco Silva:

“On the day when the London Paralympic Games are starting, I want to congratulate the paralympic athletes, the paralympic committee and respective technical teams on their representation and participation in the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Our athletes are a notable example of the fight against adversity, of the gaining of strength through weakness, of what, after all, is a demonstration of how the limits of possibility can be overcome with the finest expression of individual and collective will. These athletes are an example to us all, and richly deserve Portugal’s recognition.

The task that awaits you is not easy, as I remarked when we met last July, but I know you are fully equal to the challenge.

The Portuguese have great faith and hope in you, knowing that you will always do your best to honour your Country.

I know that the results you have obtained derive from much work and from an admirable spirit of sacrifice.

But I equally know that each one of you, within the measure of your capabilities, will give your best to honour the Country you represent.

I also want to take this occasion to congratulate the Paralympic Committee and respective technical teams, which accompany and work with our athletes.

In my personal name and on behalf of all Portuguese I wish you all the greatest of success in this important competition where, at all times, sportsmanship and competitive spirit must be the essential keynotes.

The best of luck to you all!

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”