Sir Philip Craven has told Beijing to match its 2008 achievement in 2022 ©Getty Images

International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Sir Philip Craven has urged Beijing to improve on the success of 2008 when the Chinese capital hosts the Winter Paralympics in 2022.

His words came after an IPC delegation met with the Beijing Organising Committee (BOCOG) for an Orientation Seminar today.

Extensive and in-depth discussions were held on a variety of issues ahead of the Games, with the meeting the first of its kind since BOCOG was inaugurated last month.

"When I think of Beijing, I think back to the amazing Paralympic Games in 2008 when China and Beijing raised the bar so high," said Craven via video link.

"I know you are capable and must repeat a similar feat with the Winter Games in 2022.

“The Closing Ceremony in 2008 was entitled A Letter to the Future and most certainly I see the Games of 2022 being a very big part of that letter.

“Make sure you reply to that letter with the greatest Paralympic Winter Games in 2022.”

The IPC's Chief Executive Officer Xavier Gonzalez led their party, with BOCOG vice president Zhang Jiandong and Deputy Mayor of Beijing Lu Yong among those to represent the Chinese city.

An IPC delegation has visited the Chinese capital
An IPC delegation has visited the Chinese capital ©Getty Images

Lu is another vice president of BOCOG and is also the head of the Executive Board of the China Disabled Persons’ Federation.

"The Chinese Government pays close attention to the preparation for the 2022 Paralympic Winter Games, and BOCOG is ready to do whatever is necessary and make sure the 2022 Paralympic Winter Games will be as fantastic, extraordinary and excellent as the 2022 Olympic Winter Games," said Zhang.

“A successful 2022 Paralympic Winter Games needs joint efforts from BOCOG and the IPC.

"The seminar marks a good start of the close co-operation between the two sides.

"The IPC delegation’s visit helps us better understand the Paralympic Winter Games, and lays a solid foundation for BOCOG’s preparatory work in this regard."

The sports programme, accessibility, branding, broadcasting, communication and media were among the topics which were discussed.

Gonzalez, who was fresh from a visit to Tokyo to oversee preparations for the 2020 Summer Paralympics, said: “In the same way that Beijing 2008 raised the standard for all Summer Games eight years ago, we want Beijing 2022 to take the Winter Games to new heights.

“This Orientation Seminar marks the start of a six-year-long relationship with the Organising Committee and we hope this transfer of knowledge gives Beijing 2022 a good understanding of what is required to stage the best ever Paralympic Winter Games.

“All members of the IPC delegation were impressed with the interest the 250 delegates showed during the day long meeting.”

The 2022 Paralympics are due to be held between March 4 and 13.