HA NOI (VNS) — Viet Nam will not be penalised for withdrawing from hosting the 2019 Asiad Games, Deputy Chairman of the Viet Nam Olympic Committee Hoang Vinh Giang has confirmed.

"The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has approved Viet Nam's withdrawal from hosting the 18th Asian Games. OCA will not fine Viet Nam US$1 million, but promises to support Viet Nam in developing sports and assist in hosting other events in the future," said Giang.

Viet Nam had a working session with OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabahat in Kuwait to announce its decision, which was taken because of economic difficulties and a lack of experience in organising big sports events.

OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah was sympathetic with the difficulties being faced by Viet Nam.

"The uniqueness of Asian sports is our strong unity and solidarity, which will be more important than any kind of penalty within the Asian sports family," Sheikh Ahmad said in a statement.

"Our unity and solidarity are very unique. There isn't any kind of penalty, but only support and understanding," he added.

At the working session, Viet Nam reaffirmed its commitment to host the Asian Beach Games in 2016 in Nha Trang and said the preparations were proceeding on schedule.

Indonesia and Malaysia have expressed their willingness to host the 18th ASIAD. — VNS