NDO – After over 12 months delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics officially kicks off with dazzling fireworks display at the opening ceremony held at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on the evening of July 23.

The flag of Japan is carried ahead of being raised during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Japan's Emperor Naruhito during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Performers dance during the Opening Ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on July 23, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo: Reuters)

Performers are seen during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Performers are seen during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Fireworks light up the sky over the Olympic Stadium during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Getty Images)

A general view during the athletes' parade at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Italy's contingent during the athletes' parade at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Vietnam’s delegation before the parade at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Thu Sam)

Runner Quach Thi Lan and swimmer Nguyen Huy Hoang lead Vietnam’s contingent during the athletes’ parade. (Screenshot capture)

Vietnam’s delegation at the opening ceremony. (Screenshot capture)

The host country, Japan, led by flagbearers Yui Susaki and Rui Hachimura during the athletes' parade at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Tokyo 2020)

IOC President Thomas Bach speaking at the opening ceremony. (Photo: Tokyo 2020)

The Emperor of Japan declares open the Games. "I declare open the Games of Tokyo, celebrating the XXXII Olympiad of the modern era." (Photo: Reuters)

Fireworks during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Reuters)

Fireworks during the opening ceremony. (Photo: Tokyo 2020)