The First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond, on Tuesday expressed confidence that the 20th Commonwealth Games, set to commence here on Wednesday, would prove to be an inspiration for future generations.
“We are ready to host a memorable Games and I hope that all the investment that was gone into it over the last seven years will prove beneficial in the long run.
“The Games are for the future generations as much as it is for those competing and participating in it,” he said.
Salmond refused to be drawn into a discussion regarding the September 18 referendum in which around 4.1 million people are to vote on whether Scotland should sever ties with the United Kingdom.
“I would like to concentrate, through the next 10-12 days, on the Games and deliver it on budget.” The Games is expected to cost Scotland and Glasgow a staggering £563 million.
Sport Scotland chief executive Stewart Harris underlined the work the country and Glasgow had undertaken in making the Games a success.
“We have already a legacy plan in place and this should prove to be beneficial for people across various age-groups.”
