The organizing committee of the Chengdu International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games held its first plenary meeting at the Ministry of Education (MOE) on March 1. The meeting heard an update on preparations for the 2023 Summer World University Games and considered further actions to advance organization work for the Games. Huai Jinpeng, minister of education and president of the organizing committee for the Games, moderated the meeting, while Huang Qiang, Sichuan provincial governor and executive president of the organizing committee for the Games, reported on the progress of preparations for the Games.

The meeting noted the tremendous support given by the Central Government and relevant departments as well as the unremitting efforts made by the host city Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, all of which have greatly facilitated the ongoing preparations for the Games.

The meeting stressed the need to focus all efforts on hosting a Games showcasing uniquely Chinese characteristics and the ethos of the new era. As the first post-pandemic international sporting event to be hosted in China, the Chengdu FISU World University Games is poised to be an important platform for communication among university students from around the world as well as a major informal venue for diplomatic activities. It will provide opportunities for China to tell its stories well – presenting a true image of the real China – and to build friendships with other countries. The organizing committee thus needs to rise to the challenge and work harder to deliver an event that is wonderful, safe, and frugal. All tasks need to be carefully planned and completed to high standards, including the organization of the opening and closing ceremonies, the torch relay, various sports competitions, and cultural activities. Through centralized leadership and enhanced communication mechanisms based on mutual accountability and close coordination, synergies will be created to tackle problems and ensure the delivery of a successful Games.

The meeting also discussed other matters related to coordination and support for the Games. Participants at the meeting included members of the organizing committee, representatives of state agencies, chiefs and personnel in charge of relevant work in the Sichuan provincial government and Chengdu municipal government, and the director of the opening and closing ceremonies.