ZAGREB, 14 Sept (Hina) - Prime Minister Andrej Plenković on Saturday officially opened the World Wrestling Championships at Zagreb Arena, where more than 900 wrestlers from 60 countries are competing.

In his address, he congratulated the Croatian Wrestling Federation, which, following the successful European Championships two years ago, has now organised another prestigious competition in one of the oldest and most demanding Olympic sports.

He wished all the wrestlers every success and a pleasant stay in Zagreb.

"Recognising the importance of this event, which will bring together 900 wrestlers from over 60 countries, the government has supported its organisation with four million euros. We will continue to support Croatian sport and major sporting events," Plenković said at the opening ceremony.

On the first day of competition, two Croatian representatives took part. In the 86 kg freestyle category, Krešo Škugor lost to Georgia's Tariel Gaphrindashvili, while in the 125 kg freestyle category Filip Koščić was defeated by Bahrain's Shamil Sharipov.