Significant progress achieved in preparations for 9th Asian Winter Games

HARBIN, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Construction activities have been bustling in Harbin and Yabuli Ski Resort, as preparations for the 9th Asian Winter Games have reached a significant milestone.

The Games are scheduled to take place from February 7 to 14, 2025.

With less than five months remaining until the Games, Harbin is working diligently to adhere to the tight schedule. The city boasts a robust infrastructure of winter sports facilities, providing a solid foundation for the preparations.

The Harbin Ice Hockey Arena, which previously served as a venue during the 1996 Asian Winter Games, is one of the key competition sites for the upcoming event. Recent renovations have been completed, and the arena is now ready for test events.

Qin Xulin, the head of the engineering department at the Harbin Urban Development Investment Group, has been diligently working with his colleagues to prepare for the upcoming test competitions.

Following the principles of frugality and post-event utility, the organizing committee has designated two main competition zones: the Harbin city ice sports area and the Yabuli snow sports area.

"All competition venues are undergoing upgrades in cooling, dehumidification, lighting, heating, networking, and functional facilities based on existing structures. The renovation work is nearing completion, with the Harbin Ice Hockey Arena and ski mountaineering facilities at Yabuli already accepted. Other venues are scheduled for full completion by the end of September," said Bai Zhiguo, the Deputy Secretary-General of the organizing committee.

He further mentioned that five operational teams, consisting of 152 highly capable local personnel, have been established for the competition venues.

Moreover, a record-breaking number of 34 National Olympic Committees have registered for the Harbin Games, indicating the highest participation in the history of the Asian Winter Games. Notably, China, Japan, and South Korea will be fully participating. Over the course of September to January next year, 14 test events are scheduled to take place.

As the registration efforts continue, the certification process is also progressing. In the registration center located in Harbin's Songbei District, machines have been set up, and the staff is diligently reviewing the registration information.

"On July 20, 36 volunteers from Northeast Agricultural University commenced their work at the registration center. After the completion of external client registrations on October 8, we will commence bulk production of credentials. The identity registration cards will be sent out in batches, starting from November 1," stated Wang Dazhi, the director of the registration center.

The arrival and departure services play a vital role in creating the first impressions and lasting memories for participants. Cao Ru, the head of external liaison for the organizing committee, reported that preparations for these services are underway. A command center has been established, which integrates multiple departments such as civil aviation, airport, railway, police, and customs. Additionally, a professional service team and a specialized management system have been put in place.

"According to the comprehensive preparation schedule, the arrival and departure services will be operational from January 27 to February 17, 2025," Cao elaborated. "During this period, dedicated channels will be established at Harbin Taiping International Airport and relevant train stations, based on the information provided in the management system. These channels will offer assistance with entry procedures, activation of identity cards, guidance, and early luggage check-in."

In addition, a delegation leaders' conference is planned to be held in Harbin on September 23-24, serving as a significant milestone for the Games. The discussions will encompass 20 key areas, including competition services, anti-doping measures, and registration. Moreover, the delegates will have the opportunity to visit important venues during their time in Harbin.

Bai Zhiguo revealed that a series of countdown activities will commence in October, leading up to the torch relay event in January of next year. Several significant activities are being organized to mark this occasion. ■