(VOVworld) – The 20^th Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow on Wednesday with the participation of 6,500 athletes from 71 countries and territories. The traditional baton was carried into the Celtic Park by volunteers after 288 days marching through countries and territories that the Games’ athletes call home.

Dancers perform at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Photo: Reuters

In her opening ceremony, Queen Elizabeth II said the baton marching ceremony was a call for solidarity among people of Commonwealth countries which reminded people of the bloc as a united yet diverse family where desires and ideas are shared.
The ceremony ended with a colorful fireworks performance. Athletes will start their official competitions in 17 sports from July 24 to August 3^rd.