.
Read in Chinese
Speakers:
Mr. Li Jing, vice president of the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu, and vice minister of the General Administration of Sport of China
Mr. Yang Xingping, vice president of the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu, and vice governor of Sichuan province
Mr. Wang Fengchao, vice president and secretary general of the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu, and mayor of Chengdu
Chairperson:
Mr. Zhou Jianshe, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO
Date:
April 29, 2025
Zhou Jianshe:
Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). The 12th edition of The World Games (TWG) will take place in Chengdu, Sichuan province. As we mark the 100-day countdown to The World Games 2025 Chengdu, we are delighted to have with us today Mr. Li Jing, vice president of the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu and vice minister of the General Administration of Sport of China; Mr. Yang Xingping, vice president of the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu and vice governor of Sichuan province; and Mr. Wang Fengchao, vice president and secretary general of the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu as well as mayor of Chengdu. They will brief you on the preparations for TWG 2025 Chengdu and take your questions.
First, I'll give the floor to Mr. Li for his introduction.
Li Jing:
Hello! Today marks the 100-day countdown to TWG 2025 Chengdu. On behalf of the General Administration of Sport of China and the Organizing Committee of TWG 2025 Chengdu, I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your longstanding concern, support and contributions to the development of sports.
The World Games represent the highest-level international multi-sport event for non-Olympic disciplines. The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the State Council attach great importance to the preparations for TWG 2025 Chengdu, incorporating this endeavor into this year's government work report. Successfully hosting TWG 2025 Chengdu holds significant importance in advancing the Healthy China initiative and building China into a leading sporting nation. It also plays a vital role in promoting economic and social development, enhancing mutual learning among civilizations, and contributing to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Next, I will focus on introducing the organization of the competitions and the participation of the Chinese delegation in The World Games.
First, the organization of the competition is proceeding to a high standard.
TWG 2025 Chengdu will feature 34 sports, 60 disciplines and 255 events. The General Administration of Sport of China, in collaboration with Sichuan province and the city of Chengdu, has been implementing the principles of hosting a "green, inclusive, open and clean" Games, as well as the requirements of a "simple, safe and splendid" event throughout the entire preparation process. The venue layout has been finalized, with 27 venues designated to host competitions. Competition teams have been established for 21 of these venues, and professionals with strong expertise and extensive event-organizing experience have been appointed to ensure smooth venue operations. The daily competition schedule has also largely been finalized. The softball and floorball events will kick off one day before the opening ceremony.
We've organized and completed 25 test activities based on domestic and international events. These have effectively verified our preparations in key areas, including equipment and facilities, organizational operations, timing and scoring, local support and command coordination. This has laid a solid foundation for the smooth operation of the event.
Second, efforts to organize team participation are well underway.
The Chinese delegation will compete with full strength in these Games. The General Administration of Sport is steadily progressing in forming our national delegation. So far, China has qualified for 28 major events and 152 sub-events, with about 330 athletes expected to compete. This will be the largest Chinese delegation ever at TWG, both in terms of events and the number of athletes.
The slogan of TWG 2025 Chengdu is "Boundless Sports, Countless Wonders." Our Chinese athletes will fully embody this spirit. They come from all walks of life, bringing different backgrounds and vibrant energy. We've got professional athletes from our national sports system, but also outstanding competitors from universities, businesses, public institutions and community sports clubs. We even have para-athletes in freediving, ju-jitsu, and archery selected by the China Disabled Persons' Federation. They'll compete fairly with athletes from around the world on the field and engage in friendly exchanges off the field. They will fully showcase how far China has come in sports development, particularly in non-Olympic sports, and demonstrate the spirit and energy of Chinese athletes. The General Administration of Sport and the China Disabled Persons' Federation will make sure the athletes get all the support they need during these final preparation stages. We're striving for excellence, not just in terms of athletic performance, but also in promoting sportsmanship.
We look forward to your continued coverage and support as we gear up for TWG 2025 Chengdu. Thank you.
Zhou Jianshe:
Thank you very much for that excellent overview. Now I'll hand things over to Mr. Yang.
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Yang Xingping:
Good afternoon, everyone. First, I want to thank everyone for your interest and support for Sichuan, especially for TWG 2025 Chengdu.
TWG 2025 Chengdu marks another major international multi-sport event hosted by Sichuan, following the 2023 International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games. Since winning the bid, Sichuan has incorporated guidance from the CPC Central Committee and the State Council into every aspect of our planning and preparation process. With the overall direction from the General Administration of Sport and strong backing from relevant ministries, we've mobilized all available resources to effectively advance our preparations.
First, we've established a robust organizational system, creating an efficient and streamlined working mechanism. Drawing on our experience from the Chengdu Universiade and considering the unique characteristics of TWG, we've established an organizing committee co-chaired by key leaders from the General Administration of Sport and the Sichuan Provincial Government. The committee maintains close communication with the International World Games Association and works to facilitate the Chengdu Executive Committee's coordination of specific matters like competition organization. We're also strengthening coordination with relevant international sports federations to advance event preparations in an integrated manner. At the provincial level, we've formed a working group of 51 affiliated departments and units to fully support Chengdu in advancing the preparation work with high standards, quality and efficiency. Of the 107 key preparation tasks, we've completed 61, with the remaining tasks progressing on schedule.
Second, we've focused on enhancing our service and support capabilities to meet all the needs of the Games. We've arranged 27 competition venues across eight zones, with renovation, construction and equipment installation all progressing on schedule. For events being held on the Chinese mainland for the first time, we initiated early coordination on rules and standards to ensure venues and equipment meet requirements. All facilities except those requiring temporary construction have already hosted test events and drills. Following our "compete and explore locally" approach, we've set up two athlete villages — Zone A and Zone B. We've built a service support system centered on participant experience, covering every aspect from reception and arrival/departure to transportation, accommodation, catering, and medical services. We've recruited and trained nearly 10,000 university student volunteers and set up more than 500 volunteer service stations to support the games and related participant activities. In addition, we've also developed the Chengdu2025 app, which provides event information, weather updates, transportation services and more. It officially launched in February this year.
We've also ramped up publicity and promotion to create a vibrant atmosphere for the Games. By connecting World Games preparations with nationwide fitness initiatives, we've launched a series of events like the "10,000 People, 1,000 Matches" friendship games and the New World Games-Inspired Twelve-Month Fair. These activities have created excitement across the entire province, giving people opportunities to see, hear and experience TWG firsthand. We've worked hard to tell compelling stories about TWG, China and Sichuan province, resulting in over 20,000 news reports from media outlets both at home and abroad. We've globally unveiled our official emblem, slogan and mascot, which made their international debut during the Paris Olympics. Right now, our entire province has entered "World Games Time." Torchbearer selection is underway, while promotional activities are bringing World Games sports into schools, neighborhoods and shopping areas. Across Sichuan's streets and alleys, World Games symbols and signage are everywhere, reflecting the province's growing enthusiasm to welcome, participate in and share in the Games.
TWG 2025 Chengdu will open in less than 100 days. We welcome friends from around the world to visit Sichuan at that time. The homeland of pandas looks forward to your arrival. Thank you.
Zhou Jianshe:
Thanks to Mr. Yang for your introduction. Now let's welcome Mr. Wang to speak.
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Wang Fengchao:
Good morning, friends from the media. The 12th World Games will open in Chengdu on Aug. 7, marking the first time the Chinese mainland has hosted TWG. Since successfully bidding in 2019, Chengdu has carefully followed the requirements to deliver a streamlined, safe and spectacular event. The entire city has been working together on detailed preparations, aiming to present a World Games filled with "Boundless Sports, Countless Wonders" to global audiences.
First, we've integrated resources with an emphasis on operational efficiency in hosting the event. We've pooled wisdom from all sides, organizing nearly 400 special demonstration meetings and formulating nearly 300 design and construction standards for competition venues. We've adhered to the principle of economical and intensive use of venues. Of the 27 competition venues, 18 are existing facilities with partial functional adjustments, and nine are temporary structures built around lakes and parks. No new venues have been constructed. We've embraced technological empowerment and green, low-carbon principles, incorporating over 230 technological products into the World Games service system. Our goal is to deliver an event that's both simple and spectacular.
Second, we've optimized services and improved the city through the Games. We've combined event preparation with urban governance, implementing action plans to enhance urban spaces, increase green areas, improve the city's appearance and develop distinctive neighborhoods. We've created World Games-themed landscapes tailored to local conditions and coordinated the placement of over 500 urban volunteer service stations. With enthusiastic participation from our citizens, we're collectively improving the city's overall quality and character, welcoming TWG with the best possible environment.
Third, we've built platforms to promote industrial growth through the Games. We've continuously worked to convert event traffic into economic growth by building a technology-powered platform that matches supply with demand for World Games scenarios. This has attracted multiple low-altitude aviation enterprises to venture into the event economy, while 25 robot products "converging" for competition, achieving a "dual convergence" of new technologies and products within the World Games framework. We've organized the "World Games-Tianfu" cultural and art exhibition and created seven themed cultural tourism experience routes, including the "National Treasure Fan Tour" and the "Tour of Vibrant Jincheng." These initiatives have given inbound tourism a good start in 2025.
Fourth, we've created immersive environments to benefit the public through the Games. We've actively organized a series of popular, accessible activities, including the "Ten Thousand People, Thousand Games" friendship matches, the "New Twelve-Month Fair for the World Games" cultural experience, and the "Travel with the Games" initiative. We've built or renovated 77 sports parks, constructed 407 community sports corners and created 830 new spaces along the Tianfu Greenway. Additionally, we're gradually opening 130 "World Games Spaces" in residential neighborhoods, bringing trendy sports like parkour, flying disc, sport climbing and archery into people's daily lives. World Games fever continues to build momentum in communities, shopping districts, schools and businesses.
We sincerely invite friends from around the world to gather in "Leisurely Sichuan, Happy Chengdu," to share in the excitement of sports and TWG. Come and experience firsthand the vibrant atmosphere of our park city beneath snow-capped mountains, a prosperous place full of happiness, and a center of ongoing innovation. Thank you!
Zhou Jianshe:
Thanks to Mr. Wang for your introduction. Now the floor is open for questions. Please identify your media outlet before raising your questions.
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Dazhong Daily:
Sichuan province has extended a global invitation to enjoy the Games while exploring the region and has organized a series of activities called "Travel with the Games." Could you tell us more about these initiatives? Additionally, how does Sichuan plan to leverage the Games as a medium to promote the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism? Thank you.
Yang Xingping:
Thank you for your questions. "Travel with the Games" is a very important initiative launched by the General Administration of Sport in collaboration with relevant national departments, focusing on the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism. As you know, Sichuan has incredibly rich cultural and tourism resources. The "Travel with the Games" initiative highlights many must-visit destinations that are worth savoring and exploring at a leisurely pace.
Sichuan has been known as the "Land of Abundance" since ancient times. Its unique geographical conditions and rich historical culture have shaped both its natural ecological beauty and colorful cultural charm. Here, you'll find the mysterious Sanxingdui Ruins site and the fairy-tale Jiuzhaigou Valley, as well as the hometown of the giant panda. The ancient Shu civilization, Three Kingdoms culture, and diverse ethnic traditions flourish side by side, while Sichuan liquor, tea, cuisine and opera have earned acclaim both domestically and internationally. Chengdu, the provincial capital, is one of China's happiest and most vibrant cities. Its streets and alleys are lined with hotpot restaurants, cafés, tea houses, and bookstores, creating an atmosphere rich with the essence of daily life. This magical land of Sichuan, abundant in natural resources and talented people, was once home to ancient literary giants like Sima Xiangru, Li Bai and Su Shi, who left behind a rich heritage. Today, "Ne Zha" by director Jiaozi, the music of Dao Lang, and Li Ziqi's pastoral lifestyle have become new cultural ambassadors showcasing Sichuan to the world. Coupled with the continuous hosting of major sports events such as TWG, Sichuan has excellent foundational conditions for promoting the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism.
To this end, we have strengthened overall planning and organized a series of "Travel with the Games" activities across the province, promoting the deep integration and development of culture, sports and tourism. Last October, we launched World Games-themed promotional caravans, traveling along five routes to connect all 21 cities and prefectures in our province. We designed these tours to blend World Games sports demonstrations with local events and festivals, link competition venues with popular scenic spots and city landmarks, and combine the excitement of athletic competition with opportunities to enjoy local scenery and cuisine. More than 200,000 residents and visitors have engaged with these World Games experiences. This initiative has sparked over 200 "sports plus tourism" activities across the region and highlighted more than 200 attractions and shopping districts, really boosting the connection between our sports and tourism economies.
Friends from the media, sports events serve as more than just competitive arenas; they're also powerful showcases for our culture and tourism. We sincerely invite all of you to come watch the Games in Chengdu and explore Sichuan with your families. Experience the excitement of World Games sports, take in the beautiful landscapes of Sichuan, and feel the happiness that Chengdu has to offer! Thank you.
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National Business Daily:
Frugality is an important concept for hosting modern large-scale sports events. What measures have been taken in this regard in the construction of venues and event preparations? Thank you.
Wang Fengchao:
Thanks for your question. I'll answer this one. In the preparations for TWG 2025 Chengdu, we have consistently adhered to the principle of presenting a streamlined, safe and splendid Games, practicing fiscal responsibility throughout every aspect of our planning.
In terms of venue construction, we have insisted on renovating existing venues rather than building new ones. All 27 competition venues are either renovated existing facilities or temporary structures. During the renovation process, we've balanced both the immediate needs of the events and long-term post-Games use. We've used only green, environmentally friendly building materials and recyclable resources, while implementing prefabricated and standardized construction methods to achieve efficient production and streamlined installation. At the same time, we've coordinated with teaching schedules and operational activities, implementing venue-specific policies to carefully plan construction timelines. This approach has minimized disruption to venues that remain in active use throughout the preparation period.
After TWG, we'll conduct a coordinated study on how best to utilize each venue and systematically open them to the public. These facilities will play an enhanced role in professional training, sporting events, and grassroots sports development, particularly by providing citizens with more opportunities to participate in non-Olympic and emerging sports.
In terms of equipment and facilities, while ensuring we meet all sporting event requirements, we've followed a clear hierarchy of priorities: borrowing first, renting second and purchasing only when necessary. We've implemented a strategic mix of borrowing, utilizing existing equipment where possible, and procurement to minimize equipment costs. The competition equipment for 34 major events and 60 sub-events is now in place. After the Games, all purchased competition equipment will be repurposed for competitive training programs, youth talent development, community fitness initiatives and professional event organization, continuing to serve and promote sports development.
In terms of event organization, we've optimized the torch relay route and carefully calibrated the number of torchbearers. This approach allows us to fully showcase Chinese characteristics, unique charms of Bashu culture, and Chengdu's distinctive appeal, while promoting sports culture and encouraging active lifestyles. We've streamlined the duration of the opening and closing ceremonies and optimized the event procedures. We've implemented comprehensive measures, including dedicated transportation resources and other support measures, with detailed transportation arrangements for all participants. Throughout our planning, we've focused on minimizing disruption to residents' daily lives while maintaining safety and order. Thank you.
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Cover News:
Anti-doping efforts are essential to maintaining the integrity of sports. Could you please tell us about the current status of anti-doping preparations for TWG 2025 Chengdu? What steps will be taken next to ensure a fair and clean competitive environment for the athletes? Thank you.
Li Jing:
Thanks for your question. I'll take this one. Anti-doping efforts are an important cornerstone for ensuring the smooth operation of competitions and a prerequisite for protecting the physical and mental health of athletes. The anti-doping measures at TWG 2025 Chengdu strictly adhere to the World Anti-Doping Code and related international standards. These measures are systematically organized and implemented in strict accordance with the policy requirements of the World Anti-Doping Agency and the International World Games Association.
First, I'll discuss the setup of doping control stations. Under the guidance of the International World Games Association, international testing agencies, and the China Anti-Doping Agency, doping control stations are planned for all competition venues and the Athletes' Village during TWG 2025 Chengdu. These stations will conduct urine samples, blood samples, and dried blood spot testing on athletes. We will also use the China Anti-Doping Smart Management Platform, which was independently developed by China, and "Made in China" dried blood spot testing equipment to conduct paperless doping tests. Athletes may be subject to doping tests at any time and place without prior notice.
Second, I'll address anti-doping education efforts. To create a clean and fair competition environment, we will implement an anti-doping education program in line with the policies of the International World Games Association. This includes setting up anti-doping education courses and outreach stations, offering a variety of educational activities such as knowledge quizzes, exhibitions and interactive games. These activities will educate participants about anti-doping regulations, strengthen their understanding of compliance requirements, and help maintain a spirit of fair play throughout the Games.
Third, I'll cover the prevention and control of food-based, medical-based, and pharmaceutical-based doping. The event organizing committee is firmly implementing the strictest requirements by establishing a comprehensive doping risk prevention and control system that addresses the entire chain, starting from the source. This ensures the safety of athletes' food, medical care and medication, guaranteeing that TWG 2025 Chengdu will be simple, safe and spectacular. Thank you.
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CCTV:
TWG 2025 Chengdu marks the second major international multi-sport event hosted by Sichuan province, following the successful Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games. How is the provincial government planning to use this opportunity to promote the high-quality development of Sichuan's sports industry? Thank you.
Yang Xingping:
Thank you for your interest in Sichuan's sports development. The Games will have a far-reaching impact on Sichuan's sporting industry. We're actively seizing this opportunity to promote high-quality development in Sichuan's sports sector and accelerate our transformation into a province known for sporting excellence.
Let me first address mass sports. TWG 2025 Chengdu will feature cutting-edge, fashionable and highly engaging events, providing the public with more options for fitness activities. We have organized a variety of public fitness activities in conjunction with TWG test events and tour series. Last year, we organized 11,000 sessions, engaging more than 40 million participants in mass public fitness activities. At the same time, we're leveraging the World Games to address shortcomings in fitness facilities, transforming prime urban locations into accessible neighborhood sports spaces. By 2024, the province's per capita sports area had increased by 27% compared to 2022. Going forward, we will continue to use the World Games to widely promote exercise and health concepts, further igniting enthusiasm for public fitness.
Then there's competitive sports. TWG is a valuable complement to the Olympics, providing excellent promotion for the development of competitive sports. We'll take this opportunity to vigorously promote the spirit of unity, cooperation and relentless effort in sports, actively injecting new momentum into the development of competitive sports in Sichuan. Additionally, we're using this opportunity to strengthen exchanges with outstanding athletes, coaches and referees to learn from their expertise, enhance our training methods and develop our pipeline of emerging talent. We aim to achieve greater breakthroughs in Sichuan's potential sports and specialized fields.
Let's look at the impact on the sports industry. The 31st FISU Summer World University Games, held in Chengdu in 2023, generated a total tourism spending of 12.6 billion yuan (US$1.75 billion). This significantly boosted consumption and drove development across the region. The upcoming World Games will also attract many spectators and bring together more than 4,000 athletes from over 100 countries and regions, many traveling with their families and friends. This presents another opportunity for us to enhance city management, boost the economy and benefit our residents while hosting the Games. The excitement around the World Games is set to boost sports consumption and drive increased spending in hotels, catering, tourism, retail and related industries. It'll also attract more sports events and companies to Sichuan, creating new opportunities in sports manufacturing, including smart sports gear, smart venues and outdoor equipment. Meanwhile, the event will accelerate the growth of new business forms related to winter sports, outdoor activities and aviation sports throughout the province. Going forward, we'll continue to use TWG as a catalyst for economic growth, turning Sichuan's sports market advantages into new development momentum. Thank you.
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The Poster News APP:
Sports events can significantly boost host cities' development, particularly in the area of consumer spending. What strategies is Chengdu implementing to leverage TWG's popularity and develop new consumption opportunities? Thank you.
Wang Fengchao:
Thanks for your question. Sports events have become a new driver of consumer spending. Using TWG as a platform, we've integrated our strengths in business, culture, tourism, sports, health and exhibitions to create diverse consumption opportunities and enhance Chengdu's influence.
On the one hand, we're focusing on creating new consumption experiences during TWG. Currently, we've partnered with major shopping districts, tourist attractions and consumer platforms to launch World Games-themed marketing campaigns, offering exclusive discounts and licensed merchandise. More than 40 offline licensed retail stores and booths are now open to the public, with our first Beijing location officially opening on April 27. Earlier, Sichuan Airlines unveiled a World Games-themed flight, offering international travelers a special journey showcasing Sichuan and Chinese culture. Next, we'll be launching World Games-themed high-speed trains and setting up mobile franchise sales channels to further stimulate diverse consumer spending.
On the other hand, we are focusing on stimulating new consumer spending during TWG. Based on our two mascots — Shubao, a giant panda, and Jinzai, a golden snub-nosed monkey — we've released more than 360 kinds of licensed products across 16 categories, including toys, badges, school supplies and everyday items. We've also developed specialty products like blind boxes containing 3D commemorative tickets and emblem sets from previous World Games. To align with the event schedule, we'll launch direct transportation routes connecting competition venues to shopping districts and tourist attractions, along with discount routes to make cultural experiences and travel more convenient. We're also planning a series of "Traveling with the Games" themed activities and consumption promotion events like international consumption seasons and city-wide consumer-friendly activities, so as to further expand crossover consumption spaces.
In addition, we have further improved services and convenience for inbound tourism to better serve foreign tourists. Regarding foreign currency payments, 21 overseas e-wallets are now accepted in Chengdu. International visitors can easily use Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay's QuickPass just like local residents. They can also exchange currency and withdraw cash using foreign bank cards at the city's 5,086 ATMs and 1,306 bank branches. All major shops throughout the city accept foreign card payments. Regarding language services, AI translation screens have been installed in key areas with high tourist traffic, including the Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, Kuanzhai Alley and Dujiangyan scenic area. These screens provide real-time translation, information and financial consultation in 14 languages. Additionally, all popular restaurants now offer bilingual menus. Regarding the refund-upon-departure policy, we've expanded product categories, streamlined processes, and increased the number of tax refund stores in the city to 429. Thank you.
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Jiupai News:
The mascots Shubao and Jinzai, modeled after the giant panda and golden snub-nosed monkey, showcase Chengdu's unique cultural charm. What plans do you have for cultural exchange activities during TWG? Thank you.
Wang Fengchao:
Thanks, I will answer your question. Sports events are not only a stage for athletic competition, but also a grand gathering for cultural exchange. As such, we'll plan and organize various cultural experience activities to build a platform for cultural exchange for friends from around the world.
As for urban cultural exchange activities, we have connected a series of well-known cultural scenic areas and districts, including the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the Taikoo Li business circle and Kuanzhai Alley. We've designed premium cultural tourism routes highlighting pandas, local lifestyles and Chengdu culture. These itineraries allow athletes, technical officials and other visitors to Chengdu to observe giant pandas up close, visit museums and enjoy our parks and green spaces. We're also planning to host a cultural and art exhibition centered on intangible cultural heritage, TWG, and Tianfu culture, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of Chinese civilization and Tianfu culture.
In terms of exchange activities within TWG Village, in addition to the village's opening ceremony, we will organize two types of interactive experiences: one featuring fine traditional Chinese culture and the other showcasing Chinese intangible cultural heritage. These events will allow participants to immerse themselves in 12 traditional crafts, including calligraphy, painting, Shu embroidery, shadow puppetry and paper cutting. We'll also invite street performances into TWG Village and host interactive musical events that showcase Chengdu's culture, allowing participants to experience the unique charm of this international city of music.
We've also created a specially designed TWG Plaza within the International Horticultural Exhibition Park in Chengdu Eastern New Area. The plaza features zones for sports demonstrations, Chengdu cultural exhibits, dining options, performance stages, and other attractions. The plaza will provide participants and visitors with a comprehensive experience for sightseeing, entertainment, dining, shopping and performances, all in one location. We'll hold the "Athletes' Night" event at TWG Plaza on Aug. 12, featuring interactive cultural activities, art performances, the best athlete awards ceremony and a grand gala. This will provide a platform for contestants from all over the world to communicate, interact and strengthen friendships. During the Games, TWG Plaza will be open to the public free of charge. We welcome visitors from everywhere to come experience World Games events in Chengdu and immerse themselves in our distinctive cultural offerings. Thank you.
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China News Service:
TWG has attracted competitors from numerous countries and regions. How will Sichuan province use this opportunity to further advance opening up and cooperation? Thank you.
Yang Xingping:
Thank you for your question. Further expanding opening up is a necessary step for Sichuan to broaden its development opportunities and enhance its economic quality. Therefore, we'll seize the opportunity presented by TWG to further deepen opening up and cooperation, while striving to better serve and integrate into the new development framework.
First, we will continue to expand channels for opening up. We are leveraging TWG as an opportunity to expand our international gateways. In the past few days, we've launched direct flights from Chengdu to Dubai, as well as to Madrid in Spain and Paris. Tomorrow, we'll launch direct flights to Penang, Malaysia. The launch of these flight routes has greatly enhanced the movement of people and trade between these countries and Sichuan. Moving forward, we will further leverage the advantage of Chengdu's two international airports to establish additional international air routes. During the Games, dedicated channels and windows will be established at official entry and exit ports to facilitate the movement of personnel and materials. On the other hand, Chengdu is also an important node city of the Belt and Road Initiative. The China-Europe Railway Express, which departs from Chengdu and Chongqing, connects more than 120 cities in Eurasia. With 36,000 completed train trips, it has become China's most stable China-Europe freight train service with the highest volume and widest regional cooperation network. Looking ahead, we will continue to open land-based transit corridors, promote air-rail-sea multimodal transportation, and focus on building integrated multidimensional transportation corridors to continuously expand channels for opening up.
Second, we will seize the opportunity to expand cultural and people-to-people exchanges. As a major province in western China, Sichuan has established 516 international sister city and friendly cooperation relationships with partners in 90 countries. These networks of friendship have been built and accumulated over years of international exchanges. Among these, major international events such as the Chengdu Universiade, the International Horticultural Exhibition and the Western China International Fair have played crucial roles in helping Sichuan connect with the world and expand its global presence. Therefore, we must further seize the opportunity presented by TWG to carefully plan and continuously conduct international exchange programs such as the "Sichuan Tour for Diplomatic Envoys to China" and the "Sichuan Tour for Foreign Media." We'll also continuously deepen talent exchanges in culture, art, education and sports, allowing more international friends to visit and understand Sichuan.
Furthermore, we will deepen comprehensive cooperation across multiple fields. Sichuan has established strong economic and trade relations with more than 200 countries and regions. Currently, there are over 5,600 foreign-funded enterprises in Sichuan, including 385 Fortune Global 500 companies. Chengdu has been approved to host 23 foreign consular missions, making it China's third-largest consular hub after Shanghai and Guangzhou. These developments have established a solid foundation for cooperation in various fields such as commerce, investment, science, technology, health, energy and minerals. We'll leverage our advantages and seize opportunities to promote global exchanges and cooperation. We'll invite domestic and international guests to visit various places in Sichuan and participate in events such as the Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology and the Western China International Fair. This will connect global resources on a larger scale, in a wider range of fields, and at a deeper level to enhance opening-up and cooperation. Thank you.
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Phoenix Satellite Television:
TWG 2025 Chengdu will hold the first torch relay in World Games history, which has attracted considerable attention. Could you share some information about how the torch relay preparations are progressing? Thank you.
Wang Fengchao:
Thank you for your question. I'll address this. As you mentioned, this is the first time in World Games history that a torch relay will be held, and it has attracted significant public attention. Now, let me provide a brief overview.
The one-day torch relay for TWG 2025 Chengdu will take place on July 26 in three Sichuan cities: Chengdu, Deyang and Meishan. A total of 120 torchbearers will cover the 11-kilometer route.
Regarding the torch design, its shape was inspired by a bronze standing figure unearthed from the Sanxingdui site and also resembles a proudly standing bamboo plant. Named "Zhumeng," meaning "Pursuing Dreams," it echoes the torch relay slogan "Join Hands with the World, Ignite Dreams." The Zhumeng torch was officially unveiled on Feb. 27 this year. The design scheme for the supporting components like the cauldron and lanterns has also been determined. Mass production and technical testing of the torch and its supporting components will be completed by early July.
The torchbearer selection process officially began in March. Torchbearers will come from four categories: outstanding athletes and coaches, model workers, citizen representatives and international friends. Special consideration is being given to frontline workers, including delivery personnel, ride-hailing drivers, and sanitation workers. Final selections will be confirmed in June.
Concerning the torch relay locations, after the flame collection and launch ceremony at the Sanxingdui Museum, the torch will be carried through five symbolic landmarks: the Jinsha Site Museum, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the Wuhou Shrine, the San Su Shrine, and Xinglong Lake Wetland Park. Comprehensive route planning and on-site surveys are currently underway.
Moving forward, we will meticulously plan and organize the torch relay to ensure it proceeds safely, smoothly and successfully. Through this relay, we aim to promote the World Games vision and champion the spirit of sportsmanship globally. Thank you.
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Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:
TWG features many sports events that integrate intelligent technology. Could you tell us more about how this edition of the Games will leverage technology and promote sustainability? Thank you.
Wang Fengchao:
Thanks for your question. I'll take it. We've maintained an unwavering focus on technology empowerment and green, low-carbon development in every aspect of organizing this event. Coordinated efforts across event operations, urban planning and technological innovation have enabled us to implement greener, more digital and more intelligent approaches in key areas including event organization, venue construction and service delivery.
In terms of technology empowerment, we released TWG 2025 Chengdu Technology Empowerment Guidelines and established a supporting action framework. The framework features 14 specific measures focused on targeting key areas, including venue construction and operation, event logistics, citizen engagement and commercialization of outcomes. Based on the technological requirements for hosting, participating in and watching the Games, we collected more than 230 tech products from universities, research institutes and companies, compiling them into the Technology Empowerment Product Manual for the Chengdu World Games. Through a series of events such as the "Sci-Tech Sichuan - Smart Chengdu" robotics showcase and low-altitude economy special showcases, we've built a platform to support the transformation of scientific and technological achievements. These efforts have enabled the debut of low-altitude economic applications at TWG 2025 Chengdu, including a drone torch relay, aerial couriers and aerial livestream studios. Additionally, 25 robotic products are expected to be deployed across six major scenarios, including torch relay demonstrations, smart guided tours and sports presentations, further enhancing the spectator experience.
In terms of green development, we released TWG 2025 Chengdu Green and Low-Carbon Event Action Guide and established a green and low-carbon action framework. The framework outlines nine actions and 26 specific measures centered on low-carbon energy, venues and transportation. We've also hosted the "Green Intelligence Integration for a Sustainable World Games" series of green and low-carbon supply-demand matching activities, establishing a collaborative platform connecting government and businesses. The initiative encourages companies to support the green and low-carbon goals of the Games by showcasing eco-friendly products and donating carbon credits and quotas, thereby helping to reduce the event's carbon emissions. Additionally, we launched the "Low-Carbon World Games" section on our official online platform and created a database of enterprises donating carbon credits. The initiative promotes low-carbon applications such as green electricity, sustainable transportation and low-carbon venue construction methods. Throughout the entire process, we've made comprehensive efforts to conduct carbon inventory, verification and carbon neutrality assessments, with the goal of hosting the first carbon-neutral World Games. Thank you.
Zhou Jianshe:
One last question, please.
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Beijing Radio and Television Station:
We understand that dozens of test events have been organized since last year to ensure the main event runs smoothly. Could you please provide more details about how these test events were conducted? Thank you.
Yang Xingping:
Thank you for your question. Organizing test competitions is a crucial part of preparing for sporting events. Last year, we organized 24 test competitions across 20 sports, with a focus on promoting World Games events and training competition teams. These included the World DanceSport Competition, the International Breakdance Championship and the China Canoe Marathon Open. In March this year, we also held a series of tournaments in three events: freediving, lifesaving and boules.
These activities tested both the competition organization's software and hardware in three areas: First, we tested venue facilities, equipment, award ceremonies, and other elements and processes according to official competition standards. Second, we tested the management and operational mechanism that uses venues as organizational units to coordinate various working groups in delivering event services. Third, we tested systems requiring international partner participation in joint debugging and testing, such as timing, scoring and results processing. Overall, these tests have achieved their intended goals of training our personnel, evaluating facilities, optimizing processes and improving capabilities, laying a solid foundation for the successful hosting of the official competition.
Looking ahead, we'll organize simulation exercises throughout all competition areas, leveraging various event levels and types. These exercises will be complemented by customer group simulations and tabletop drills to thoroughly assess venue command systems, operational resilience and emergency response capabilities, ensuring the smooth execution of the official competition. Thank you!
Zhou Jianshe:
That concludes today's press conference. Thank you to our three speakers and to all the journalists for joining us. Goodbye, everyone!
Translated and edited by Liu Caiyi, Wang Xingguang, Xu Kailin, Liao Jiaxin, Lin Liyao, Li Xiao, Zhang Tingting, Mi Xingang, Wang Qian, Liu Qiang, Li Huiru, Wang Yanfang, Ma Yujia, Wang Wei, Huang Shan, Fan Junmei, David Ball, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.
