Yu Yuanhui, Secretary of the Municipal Committee of the city of Nanning and Local Organising Committee (LOC) President, delivered a welcome speech to the Championships' officials at the Li Yuan Hotel.

Yu highlighted the importance of the World Championships, which outside of the Olympic Games showcase the highest level of artistic gymnastics internationally, and described the event as being a great occasion for people from around the world to share joy and friendship. 

"The world championships bring together people from different countries, ethnic groups and cultural backgrounds for sincere exchanges, friendship, cooperation and development," he said.

"It plays an important and unique role in enhancing common prosperity and harmony."

Also present were Zhou Hongbo, Mayor of the city of Nanning, and Luo Chaoyi, President of the Chinese Gymnastics Association (CGA) and LOC Executive President.

China last hosted the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Tianjin in 1999
©Getty Images


Meanwhile at the Mingyuan Hotel, Lv Jie, deputy Mayor of the city of Nanning and LOC deputy Director, addressed the assembled media. 

More than 600 international and national representatives have been accredited to cover the Championships, all of which were invited. 

Lv stressed that hosting the event is important for the city's reputation, fostering cultural exchange as well as inner Chinese relations.

Slava Corn, first vice-president of the FIG, spoke at both receptions and thanked the local, regional and national authorities, the CGA and the LOC for preparing the Federation's flagship event.

"I know that these Championships will be successful and memorable for all of us," she said.

"The spectators will be thrilled with the exciting performances of the gymnasts."

An unprecedented 619 gymnasts - 276 women and 343 men - from 73 countries are set to compete for the 14 sets of medals on offer.

The action is due to get underway tomorrow, continuing until October 12.