Hyderabad: The inaugural Afro-Asian Games was consigned to history at a glittering ceremony tonight (November 1) but not before marking the celebration of unity between the two continents and boosting India's chances for hosting the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

The success of the Games also underlined the capability of India to host a mega event just as the inaugural Asian Games did in 1951.

The nine-day sporting extravaganza, which saw about 2,000 athletes from 95 countries competing for honours in eight disciplines, came to an end at the majestic G M C Balayogi Stadium with President A P J Abdul Kalam declaring the Games closed.

"I congratulate all the athletes and officials who were part of the Games. When I see thousands of sportspersons, I am sure the combined power of youth through sport will be the most powerful resource on Earth," Kalam said. "I also congratulate the contingents particularly India and China, (who took the first two positions in the medal tally)," he said, adding the experience gained from this event will enable the country to host much bigger events in future.

The theme of "Two Continents - One Spirit" was evident as the athletes joined hands to bid au revoir to this hi-tech city which brought them together from far and near.

The inter-continental meet might have lost some sheen with many of the competing nations failing to field their top athletes, yet the successful conduct of the Games sent a strong message to the world on India's capabilities to host major international sporting events.

The success of the event was not only confined to the conduct, but also manifested in the performance of the Indian athletes who finished second in the overall medals tally.

India's 19-gold haul was only behind China's 25 and much ahead of Japan (15) and Nigeria (10). India's overall tally stood at a staggering 80 which included 32 silver and 29 bronze.

The Games also did a world of good to the country's Commonwealth Games bid as the 26 Commonwealth member countries - who participated in the Afro-Asian Games - got a first-hand account of India's potential.

This factor could act in India's favour when the 72 Commonwealth members meet in Jamaica in less than two weeks' time to choose between Delhi and Hamilton (Canada) as the venue for the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

PTI