Fencing competition at universiades always attracted outstanding fencers throughout the world, said Rene, who arrived in Beijing on August 23 when the fencing competition started.

More fencer from China, Estonia and Ukraine, broke the monopoly of traditional fencing strengths of Italy, France and Germany.

"This showed that the fencing has been popularized in the world, " the president said.

Chinese fencers made great performance at the universiade and they got five titles in the competition, the French man said.

"It was a pity that China failed to obtain one gold at Sydney Olympics 2000," said the president, citing that Chinese fencers are very strong in men's and women's foil.

Rene also said that the most important task of the IFF currently is to further popularize fencing among people. The federation plans to revise rules of fencing competition, which are now regarded by most of the people too complicated. Meanwhile, referees are ordered to improve their capability when judging in bouts.

In addition, Rene said that the IFF will organize fencing training courses throughout the world and help world fencers in scientific training. Before the world championship this year, an Asian training course is scheduled in Beijing, focusing on cultivating women foil fencers and men sabre fencers.

(Xinhua News Agency 08/30/2001)