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Gay news: More than 12,000 out athletes from 70 countries expected to compete
Gay Minister becomes patron of Gay Games
Germany's gay foreign minister to open 2010 Gay Games
Guido Westerelle, the gay foreign minister and vice-chancellor of Germany, has become an official patron of the 2010 Gay Games VIII and will preside over its opening ceremony in Cologne on July 31.
Annete Wachter, chief executive officer of Games Cologne, said in a press release: "Guido Westerwelle has been the Chairman of the Free Democratic Party since 2001, and previously was the party's General Secretary.
"On 28 October 2009 German Chancellor Angela Merkel named him the country's foreign minister and Vice-Chancellor of Germany, the first openly gay person to hold either office.
"We are so pleased to have found such a prominent advocate. With his commitment Dr Guido Westerwelle sends an important signal for more tolerance and acceptance of gays and lesbians in our society."
More than 12,000 out athletes from 70 countries are expected to take part in sports competitions and cultural exhibitions at Gay Games VIII between July 31 and August 7.
