Chengdu World Games: Envoys Hope Event Promotes Friendship and Joy
On the eve of the opening of the 12th World Games (referred to as the “Chengdu World Games”), dozens of diplomats and consular officials from multiple countries visited Chengdu. During their visit, some of the officials toured the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and the Chengdu Planning Exhibition Hall.
One of the mascots of the Chengdu World Games, “Shubao,” is inspired by the giant panda. While visiting the panda breeding base, the diplomats were deeply charmed by the adorable pandas.
“Watching pandas is a joyful experience. They are not just mascots for the event but also an emotional bridge connecting athletes and spectators,” remarked one diplomat, adding that pandas will leave a unique memory of the Chengdu World Games.
“Combining the hometown of pandas with the World Games is a clever and meaningful pairing,” said another diplomat, noting that the visit provided insight into the efforts of researchers to ensure the health and growth of the panda population.
At the Chengdu Planning Exhibition Hall, holographic projections showcased the city’s evolution from ancient Shu civilization to its current status as a “new first-tier city” in China.
One diplomat praised Chengdu’s urban planning as a model for cities worldwide, highlighting its dynamic development and impeccable preservation of historical heritage.
Another diplomat mentioned potential collaboration in urban planning, stating, “Chengdu’s approach is worth learning from—it balances abundant natural spaces with modern development while maintaining a relaxed pace of life.”
A representative from Denmark noted that their country is sending 51 athletes to the Chengdu World Games, a significant number for a nation of around six million people. “International sports events bring people together in a spirit of peace and friendship to enjoy the thrill of competition,” they added.
One diplomat expressed hopes for athletes to perform at their best while enjoying the games in a friendly and fair atmosphere, fostering camaraderie and skill exchange.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, established in 1987, is a world-renowned conservation and research facility in Sichuan, China, dedicated to protecting giant pandas and other endangered species. Initially starting with six rescued pandas, it has grown into a leading center for breeding, research, and public education, successfully increasing the panda population through captive breeding programs. Today, it attracts millions of visitors annually, offering close encounters with pandas while promoting global wildlife conservation efforts.
Chengdu Planning Exhibition Hall
The Chengdu Planning Exhibition Hall is a modern architectural landmark showcasing the urban development and future plans of Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It features interactive exhibits, scale models, and multimedia displays that highlight the city’s history, rapid growth, and sustainable urban planning strategies. Opened in 2012, the hall reflects Chengdu’s vision as a leading economic and cultural hub in western China.
Chengdu World Games
The **Chengdu World Games** refers to the 2021 World University Games (also known as the Universiade) held in Chengdu, China, after being postponed from 2021 to 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a major international multi-sport event for student-athletes, it showcased Chengdu’s modern infrastructure and cultural heritage, reinforcing its reputation as a global hub for sports and education. The Games featured events across various disciplines, promoting youth sportsmanship and international exchange.
Shubao
“Shubao” (书堡) refers to the Shubao Pagoda, a historic Buddhist pagoda located in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China. Built during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), it is part of the Tianning Temple complex and is known for its elegant brick-and-wood structure and cultural significance as a center of Buddhist learning. The pagoda has undergone several restorations over the centuries and remains a notable example of ancient Chinese architecture.
ancient Shu civilization
The ancient Shu civilization, centered in China’s Sichuan Basin, thrived around 2000–1000 BCE and is renowned for its advanced bronze artifacts, notably the striking Sanxingdui and Jinsha archaeological finds. This culture, distinct from the contemporaneous Central Plains civilizations, is characterized by its unique bronze masks, gold artifacts, and intricate jade carvings, reflecting a sophisticated society with possible ties to early shamanistic practices. The discovery of Sanxingdui in 1986 revolutionized understanding of early Chinese civilizations, revealing the Shu as a previously overlooked yet highly developed regional power.
new first-tier city
“New first-tier cities” is a term used in China to describe rapidly growing urban centers that, while not as large or developed as traditional first-tier cities like Beijing or Shanghai, exhibit strong economic potential, infrastructure, and cultural influence. Examples include Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Chongqing, which have seen significant investment, population growth, and modernization in recent decades. These cities often serve as regional hubs, blending historical heritage with contemporary development.
Denmark
Denmark is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe known for its rich history, Viking heritage, and modern welfare society. Founded in the 10th century, it was once the heart of a powerful medieval empire that included parts of present-day Sweden, Norway, and northern Germany. Today, Denmark is famous for its progressive values, historic castles like Kronborg (the setting of Shakespeare’s *Hamlet*), and vibrant cities such as Copenhagen, home to the iconic *Little Mermaid* statue.
World Games
The **World Games** is an international multi-sport event held every four years, featuring sports and disciplines not included in the Olympic Games. First organized in 1981, it showcases events like squash, bowling, and martial arts, promoting lesser-known sports globally. Governed by the International World Games Association (IWGA), it complements the Olympics by celebrating diverse athletic traditions.