The theme song "Sun Rises from the East" was a prelude to the entry of the athletes into the arena with the military band striking its notes. Games Organising Committee chief Liu Peng and OCA chief Shaikh Al-Sabah delivered their opening speeches before Chinese PM declared the Games open to the accompaniment of fireworks. The formal part of the function commenced with the entry and raising of the OCA flag and the playing of the OCA's anthem. Athletes' and officials took the oath before the Games flame arrived. The cauldron lit, Guangzhou's night sky was then lit up by eye-catching fireworks.