The Coordination Commission, headed by chair Alexander Popov (pictured third from right), expressed their delight at the progress made by the Games' Organising Committee (NYOGOC), following on from their first visit in January.

The General Foundation Planning stage has now been completed, and the NYOGOC team is fully operational, with 17 departments established.

The Chinese Olympic Committee is continuing to support the Organising Committee with their preparations, using the expertise and experience of having hosted the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Milestones completed in the last six months include the launch of the Nanjing emblem, the launch of the marketing programme, the laying of the foundations of the Youth Olympic Village and the completion of the Culture and Education Programme concepts.

Construction on the Youth Olympic Village began in September, and is due for completion by April 2014, four months ahead of the start of the Games.

Athlete training facilities and a village square, serving as a central location for the cultural and educational programme activities, will also be constructed.

"There have been some major developments since our last visit earlier this year, which is testament to the efficiency and professionalism of the Nanjing Organising Committee," said Popov.

"The Nanjing 2014 team has truly embraced the spirit of the Youth Olympic Games and its vision is now becoming a reality."

Yang Weize, Executive President of Nanjing 2014, added: "Over the last six months we have been improving and optimising the organisational structure at NYOGOC and strengthening the image of Nanjing 2014.

"As we approach the 1,000-days-to-go mark, we are confident in the steady development of our preparations to deliver a unique and amazing event."

Twenty-five venues for the 28 sports being played at the Games have been confirmed, including beach volleyball for the first time, and nine of the 28 International Federations have visited Nanjing.

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