TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) attended the opening ceremony Sunday of the 12th U15 Asian Baseball Championship, held this week at the Asia-Pacific International Baseball Training Center.

The tournament features two groups of participants, with teams from Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, per CNA. Play continues throughout the week, culminating in a championship match on Saturday.

In his speech, Huang welcomed the eight international teams and distinguished guests. He said Tainan has become a major center of international baseball culture and noted the city had just hosted the 8th WBSC U12 World Cup in July.

Huang added that hosting another high-level youth baseball tournament shows Tainan has excellent venues, comprehensive facilities, and passionate fans.

He expressed hope that more international tournaments will be held in Tainan, promoting cultural exchange and cooperation. He wished the event success, smooth operations, and outstanding performances from the players.

Sports Administration Director-General Cheng Shih-chung (鄭世忠) said the tournament is both international recognition of Taiwan’s baseball prowess and an opportunity to showcase Tainan’s vitality.

Cheng said he hopes all players will perform at their best and pledged the Sports Administration will continue supporting baseball development and work to host more international tournaments in Taiwan.

The Tainan City Government noted the 12th U15 Asian Baseball Championship is hosted by the Baseball Federation of Asia and co-organized by the Tainan City Government and the Taiwan Baseball Association.