Portuguese delegation entered the Bird's Nest National Stadium at the Paralympics opening ceremony on Saturday night, with star rower Filomena Franco carrying the flag.

The Portuguese will compete in seven sports and chef-de-mission Jorge Carvalho said that they aim to win at least 12 medals in Beijing.

Portugal first participated in the Paralympic Games in 1972. After a hiatus of 12 years, Portugal returned to the Paralympic Movement in 1984 and has competed in all the ensuing editions.

(Xinhua News Agency September 6, 2008)