KATHMANDU: The 13^th South Asian Games (SAG) concluded with a fanfare at the Tripureshwor-based Dashrath Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Ishwor Pokharel, Minister for Youth and Sports Jagat Bahadur Bishwokarma, Chairman of Nepal Olympic Committee Jeevanram Shrestha and Member Secretary of National Sports Council (NSC) Ramesh Silwal expressed their happiness for the conclusion of the regional sporting extravaganza in a grand manner.

On the occasion, the SAG flag was handed over to Pakistan to conduct the next edition of the competition.

In a video message to the closing ceremony, Prime Minister KP Oli congratulated participating countries, players and coaches.

He remarked that SAG was successful in further strengthening the unity and friendliness between the citizens and countries in South Asia.

In the closing ceremony, a troupe of 7, 500 artists and students performed, including the traditional Lakhe dance, in the stadium decked with light, flowers, frills and flags.

Fireworks were also cracked in the event amid the cheers and applause of spectators coming from the jam-packed 30,000-capacity-stadium.

Photos: Adeep Shrestha/ Khabarhub