On August 30, 2023, the Chinese Embassy in Norway hosted the Norwegian Association of University Sports to welcome the Norwegian delegation back from the Chengdu FISU World University Games. Ambassador Hou Yue, Mr. Gerhard Heiberg, the honorary member of the International Olympic Committee, and Mr. Sofus Rasmussen, head of the Norwegian delegation attended the event and delivered speeches. Members of the Norwegian delegation, representatives of international students from the two countries and young diplomats from the embassy participated.

Ambassador Hou said that the World University Games is not only a sports event, but also an important platform for cultural exchanges. Chinese audiences get to know Norway through your outstanding performance, and more Norwegian friends also acquire a better knowledge of a colorful and diverse China through you. "Mutual understanding among the people fosters harmonious relations between nations." Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between China and Norway. Sports exchanges are an important part of China-Norway relations. Being a participant and contributor to bilateral exchanges, I look forward to more Norwegian friends joining you, and together, building the bridge of friendship between our two nations.

Mr. Heiberg said that this is the third time China has hosted the World University Games. More than 6,500 athletes from over 110 nations and regions gathered in Chengdu to promote cultural exchanges through sports competitions, thus making a great contribution to building a better world. I hope you will share more about what you see and hear in China, and become an envoy of youth exchanges and friendship between the two countries.

Mr. Rasmussen said that the beauty of Chengdu left a deep impression on everyone, and the enthusiasm and hospitality of the organizers and volunteers were very moving, and gave us a deeper understanding of the Chinese people. The spirit of sports transcends national borders, and the Chengdu World University Games provides an excellent platform for athletes from all over the world to enhance mutual understanding and build friendship. Thanks to China for presenting a wonderful World University Games to the world.

The Embassy also prepared a video of “Wonderful Moments” of Norwegian athletes at the event. Volunteers of Norwegian delegation during the World University Games, Liao Zixuan and Lin Chengyang, sent video greetings. Members of the Norwegian delegation, international students of the two countries and young diplomats of the embassy had extensive exchanges. The Norwegian athletes shared their experiences in China, and considered the trip to Chengdu to be a memory for a lifetime. And with their own experience, they have seen a different China and look forward to the opportunity to return to China and renew the friendship.