"It is with great honor and pleasure that I take this opportunity to welcome you and over 6,000 athletes, coaches, and administrators that have gathered here tonight in this wonderful city of Beijing. China for the opening of the largest Summer Universiade in the history of FISU."

"I first came to Beijing some four years ago at the request of our late President, Dr. Primo Nebiolo, to explore the possibility with the local governmental authorities of hosting a Summer Universiade. Following our initial visit, it wasn't long after that the city of Beijing notified us its desire to host the 2001 Universiade."

"The rest is history. Beginning tomorrow the world will be able to see the fruits of their labor. New venues have been constructed, old venues have been refurbished, and an athletes' village is without a doubt one of the finest ever constructed for a worldwide multi-sport event."

"I would like to thank the mayor of Beijing, Mr. Liu Qi, and his entire Organizing Committee for the efforts that they have made during these past years. It has been a joy to have had the pleasure of working with them as they prepared for tonight's opening of Universiade 2001. In addition, I would like to thank the citizens of China and the City of Beijing for believing in the value of university sport."

"My best to each and everyone who has traveled from far and near to compete here in Summer Universiade 2001. I wish you all much success during the next 10 days."

(Xinhua News Agency 08/22/2001)