Bhubaneswar, July 9: Yukio Seki, a technical delegate from Japan at the Asian Athletics Association, is very happy that he got an opportunity to visit this historical city.

"Both Japan and India share a good relationship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also visited our country. If I get a chance, I will visit this country again," Seki said.

Seki, who is in his early 50s, said: "I'm delighted to see schoolchildren here. They are the future Olympians. We should inculcate our children's interest in sports as it is the best medium to develop the mind and character of a child."

He added that the environment at Kalinga Stadium was electrifying.

"We are preparing for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. The 22nd Asian Athletics Championship will help us in that direction. I appreciate the efforts made by the local government. I can bet this is one of the best events organised so far."

Seki said: "We have won a silver medal in 100x4 metres relay. Now, our objective is to win gold in the Tokyo Olympics beating Jamica and US. We will try to win as many medals possible. We are just keeping an eye on our budding talents."

The sports administrator said he was happy to know that the local government was organising trips for school students to visit Kalinga Stadium to watch the sports event.

"When these children see champions playing in the field, they will be motivated. I hope they compete with athletes of the world in future."

Seki said he was impressed by the warmth of the spectators. "The spectators here have a lot of interest in sports. It is amazing to see how they are cheering for the players."

"After coming here, I came to know about the rich history of Odisha and its contribution to Buddhism," he said.