"In times such as these, it is important to have hope for the future," said Rashed, a former international-level Para athlete and Para table tennis player.

"So, whilst we continue to pray for everyone who is affected by the pandemic, we are also looking forward to the Tokyo Paralympic Games with hope in our hearts.

"I am confident that this Games will be one of the best ever and the Para athletes will come out with strong performances and get their personal best records in Tokyo.

"We hope that all the Asian athletes can perform to their best and win more medals than ever before for our region.

"This Games will not just leave a legacy in our region but show the world the Paralympic spirit and remind everyone of what is possible with courage and determination."

It is the fourth time that the Paralympic Games will be hosted in Asia, with Tokyo staging it for the second time after 1964.

"Having these Games in our region is an honour and I’d like to thank everyone at the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee and the IPC who have worked so very hard in very difficult circumstances to make sure that the Games can go ahead in the safest possible way," Rashed added in an address made yesterday to mark 50 days to go until the Games' opening.

Tokyo 2020 will see the newest National Paralympic Committee (NPC) from the region, Bhutan, represented by four Para athletes, including two female athletes.

"We are really very proud that one of our newest NPCs will be part of the Games," Rashed said.

"This shows that the Paralympic Movement is growing in the region.

"We hope that all the Asian athletes make each of these 50 days count as they get ready to represent their country and our region in Tokyo.

"I wish all the athletes the very best of luck with their final preparations.

"We are all behind them and know that they will make us proud."