Santiparb Tejavanija(C), director of the Athletes Village Management Office of Universiade Bangkok 2007, answers questions in a press conference at the main press center (MPC) of the 24th Universiade in Bangkok, capital of Thailand, Aug. 4, 2007. According the the Organizing Committee of the 24th Universiade, more than 160 countries and regions will attend the 24th Universiade Bangkok 2007 and about 4,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions have arrived in Bangkok.(Xinhua/Chen Kai)
BANGKOK, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) — “Once we have agreed, we are willing to suffer on our own to tackle all the problems,” said an Organizing Committee member of the 24th Universiade here on Saturday, referring to the unexpected surplus of arrivals from all over the world.
By far, the delegations from 45 countries and regions, with nearly 4,000 members, have arrived in Bangkok, one of the world’s favorable tourism destinations.
“Some of the delegations bring far more members than the originally registered, and some others even simply come here without any applications,” said Dr. Santipar Tejavanija, who takes charge of the athletes’ village management.
The unpredictable arrivals resulted in accommodation problems for the Organizing Committee, but the Thai people have shown great determination to present their best hospitality.
Tejavanija, also vice mayor of Bangkok, told Xinhua that all the questions and difficulties aroused have been handled carefully, and everything is in good shape now.
“We cannot predict the final number of athletes and officials who will be here for the Universiade now, but we will try our best to accommodate them with appreciation and gratitude,” the vice major said.
“We are very happy and honored to have guests from over 160 countries and regions, and we will show you the best Thai hospitality,” he added.