'These Games have changed us all forever,' said International Paralympic Committee president, Sir Philip Craven as he declared the 2012 Paralympics closed last night. And as the sun set on the Olympic Park media commentators from around the world were already reflecting on the legacy of the Paralympic Games. Some 2.7 million tickets were sold for the Games and although the amount of media and television coverage is not yet as big as the Olympics, there was definite surge in interest. The Washington Post hailed last night's closing ceremony as a 'three-hour party' giving 'the biggest-ever Paralympic Games a rousing send-off, wrapping up an unforgettable summer of sports in Britain.' China's Xinhua news agency said: 'London has pushed the Paralympics to a new height after taking over the legacy of the Beijing Paralympics.' Bahrain's Gulf Daily News said the Paralympics 'have swiftly taught us to look beyond disability towards achievement.' Canada's Vancouver Sun reflected on the country's performance saying: 'The most watched and most competitive Paralympic Games in history have wrapped up with Canada leaving London following its worst showing ever.' Australia's Canberra Times said: 'The London Organising Committee (LOCOG) fulfilled its pledge to not treat the Paralympics as a poor cousin to the Olympics and the athletes themselves put on 11 days of not only enthralling sporting contests but inspiring stories. The Tripoli Post hailed the sporting event as the 'greatest ever Summer Paralympic Games.' On their website France 24 wrote: 'Organisers have won plaudits for the efficient running of both events, with packed venues and vocal crowds, defying naysayers who predicted chaos and a lack of enthusiasm.' The Wall Street Journal put together a photo gallery to commemorate 'a summer of elite sport.' In The New York Times, Joshua George wrote: 'In London, Paralympians are seen as amazing for their feats on the field, and it could not be more refreshing. I hope that one day the United States decides to join the party.' Nigeria's Vangaurd wrote: 'Paralympics have given humanity an opportunity to push the limits of human capacity to adapt as evident in the stunning performances of disabled athletes in various sporting events.' German paper Der Tagesspiegel, left, hailed Rhianna's performance as 'spectacular.' Website Deutsche Welle said: 'It was an event that not only drew millions of viewers but also helped change audiences' perceptions of disability. 'For most, the lasting memories of the London 2012 Paralympics will be of sporting achievement and an electric atmosphere inside packed out venues.' - Winckel