Hong Kong sports chief hopes for deeper exchanges with Chengdu

Hong Kong sports chief Timothy Fok is eyeing deeper cooperation with Chengdu, highlighting sports as a bridge for cultural exchange during the 2025 World Games.

CHENGDU, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Timothy Fok Tsun-ting, president of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, expressed hope on Friday for strengthened exchanges between Hong Kong and Chengdu, particularly in sports.

Fok made the remarks while experiencing local tea culture at the Tiexiang Temple Riverfront, located in Gazelle Valley Industrial Community, High-tech Zone, Chengdu, on the sidelines of the 2025 World Games.

"Tea drinking is a hallmark of Chengdu. I heard about this teahouse long ago and am delighted to experience this culture," Fok said.

Hong Kong athlete Grace Lau Mo Sheung made headlines by winning the women's kata gold medal in karate on Friday - the delegation's first gold at the Games.

"I've been closely following the competitions and congratulate Hong Kong athletes on their excellent results," added Fok, who had also attended the opening ceremony.

"The open-air opening ceremony was distinctive and truly reflected local characteristics," Fok commented, adding that major sporting events serve as platforms to showcase host cities' culture and drive urban development, especially in creating legacies that promote public fitness and enhance urban infrastructure.

Noting the increasing frequency of sports exchanges through international multi-sport events hosted by China, Fok said such interactions help the world better understand China and foster cooperation between different regions and countries.

"Especially for young people, these events offer opportunities to enhance mutual understanding and friendship," Fok added. Looking ahead to China's 15th National Games co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao in November this year, he acknowledged the challenges of multi-city collaboration but stressed its potential: "This can promote exchanges. I hope sports events like the World Games will further strengthen cooperation between Hong Kong and Chengdu across various fields."

The Hong Kong delegation at the Chengdu World Games is made of 40 athletes competing in eight sports, including sport climbing, karate, squash and wushu. ■