Indonesia sets 16 gold target in Asian Games

   JAKARTA, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian athletes vying in the upcoming Asian Games are expected to secure at least 16 gold medals as the country eyes the 10th place in the regional sport event this year.

   Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla disclosed on Thursday that he was confident that the country's athletes will be able to achieve the target based on their recent performance and preparation.

   "As the target is to post the tenth position, at least 16 gold medals have to be secured. If the number is less than that our position will go down," Vice President Kalla said in PTIK building.

   "Finally, people will not remember again the opening ceremony, but that which will always be remembered is the position in this Asian Games. It will be remember for years," said Kalla.

   In the previous 17th Asian Games held in Inchion of South Korea, Indonesian athletes posted the 17th place with a total of 20 medals secured, including 4 gold medals, 5 silver medals and 11 bronze medals.

   Indonesia plans to send athletes to compete in all 44 sports, Indonesian sport minister Imam Nahrawi has said.

   Over 11,000 athletes and officials from 45 countries and regions will take part in the regional sport event in Indonesia.  Enditem