The 2025 Asian Winter Games are set to commence in a month's time in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. As the event approaches, the city is in the final stages of preparations, hosting several test events to ensure everything runs seamlessly.
Harbin has successfully completed seven out of the planned 14 test events, including figure skating, ice hockey, and curling. The latest focus is on cross-country skiing, with a speed skating test event scheduled for the upcoming weekend, featuring over 65 athletes competing in seven disciplines.
Organizers report that key preparations are well underway, with arrival and departure services established at airports and train stations. A new system for arrivals and departures was officially launched last month. To enhance transportation, railway capacity has been increased, including the introduction of three dedicated sightseeing trains, demonstrating Harbin's commitment to hosting a successful Games.
Additionally, Harbin Taiping International Airport has implemented a 240-hour transit visa exemption policy, extending the original three-day stay to ten days. The number of entry ports where this policy applies has increased from 39 in 19 provinces to 60 in 24 provinces, allowing transit visa-exempt tourists to move freely across these specified regions during their stay.
In the lead-up to the Games, Taiping International has set up a dedicated \"Special Asian Winter Games Channel\". The Harbin Exit-Entry Border Inspection Station has deployed guidance officers to assist with expedited clearance for event participants and staff. Featuring an extensive air traffic network with 19 international routes connecting to Russia, Japan, South Korea, and other countries and regions, the airport is well-prepared to welcome participants and officials from across the continent. The entry and exit services begin on January 27th.
The organizers also announced that the Main Media Center for the Games has started operations on a trial basis. The facility is divided into two sections: the Main Press Center and the International Broadcast Center. The MPC is equipped with nine areas, including a comprehensive service zone, public media workstations, a press conference hall, and interview areas. Meanwhile, the IBC will act as the technical hub for organizations and broadcasters. During this trial period, all aspects will be tested, and organizers are confident that all challenges will be met.
\"We will conduct joint debugging and testing of the infrastructure setup. This involves assessing how well different business areas coordinate with one another and whether the services provided can align effectively,\" said Lyu Zhuangzhi, Media Operations Director for the Harbin Asian Winter Games.
\"Once we establish a collaborative dynamic, we aim to create a seamless operational chain. If we encounter any issues, we will address them promptly, ensuring that our operational processes run smoothly and providing satisfactory service to registered media journalists from both China and abroad during the Games.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
