The 2024 Paralympics opened in Paris with a spectacular ceremony at the Place de la Concorde. The event featured fireworks, speeches, torchbearers, and the lighting of the cauldron by five French athletes. The ceremony highlighted themes of disability, diversity, and inclusivity, with many on social media calling it the best ever Paralympics opening ceremony. The Paralympic flag was raised, the Paralympic oath was read, and the Paralympic flame was carried into the venue after a journey around France. The event also featured performances by musicians and dancers, including a special solo by Musa Motha. President of Paris 2024, Tony Estanguet, spoke about the importance of the Paralympic revolution and the impact it will have on changing perceptions of disabilities. International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons emphasized the power of sport to bring people together and declared the 2024 Paralympics officially open. The ceremony was concluded with the French flag raised as the national anthem played, symbolizing the beginning of the Paralympic Games in an atmosphere of unity and celebration.
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