He told the press here this afternoon that the 21st Universiade, scheduled to close this evening, "is a great success thanks to the guidance of the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and concerted efforts by all quarters.”

“The 21st Universiade is a full embodyment of the FISU sporting values of "friendship, fraternity, fairplay, perseverance, integrity, cooperation and application" and the Olympic spirit of “citius, altius and fortius," he said.

He quoted Jacques Rogge, President of the International Olympic Committee, as saying that the excellent job the UOC did for the 21st Universiade proved Beijing has the capability of holding the 2008 Olympics.

By August 30, a total of 8,933 members of participating delegations from 169 countries and regions had taken part in the 21st universiade, including 3,939 athletes, 2,751 officials and 2,243 journalists from at home and abroad, according to Mr. Liu.

After 11 days of competition in 168 sub-events of 12 disciplines, the Chinese delegation emerged on top of the medal table.

The opening ceremony of the Universiade, outdoor activities of the cultural festival, get-together of international university students in Nationalities Park as well as torch relays have left a deep impression on the athletes, referees and judges of various countries and regions and FISU officials, said the Vice-President, adding that“the closing ceremony this evening is sure to leave them a lasting memory.”

Services offered by more than 15,000 volunteers from universities of Beijing have won the hearts of foreign guests, the Vice-Mayor said.

(U21net 09/01/2001)