Chinese athletes have put on a good performance at the World University Games, which provides a good opportunity for China to prepare for next year's Athens Olympics. Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee says it will be happy to see the two Koreas apply to form a joint delegation to the Athens Games.

Liu Wei: The Chinese delegation is leading in the medal tally halfway through the competition. According to deputy chef-de-mission of China, Pan Zhichen, Chinese athletes have performed well in swimming, diving, fencing and taekwondo.

"So far we have exceeded our goal for the games. The athletes have worked hard and done their best. We had planned to take 10 gold medals before coming here, but the number has already reached 17 by Wednesday. By attending the games, some young athletes have gained experience and confidence, and improved their skill. We are taking full advantage of the games to prepare for the Athens Olympics."

Pan Zhichen says Chinese players are expected to win more medals in diving, swimming, gymnastics, athletics and judo in the coming days.

On Wednesday, president of the International Olympic Committee Jacques Rogge arrived in Daegu for a three-day visit. He says the IOC will definitely agree if the two Koreas apply to form a joint delegation to the Athens Games.

"We would be very happy if such a request would come from the two national Olympic Committees, because I think that would be a wonderful message to the world that sport can unite people. There are of course problems that have to be discussed if there is the will to collaborate between the two Olympic Committees that is the issue of the flag, the issue of the name."

Rogge says the IOC would offer solutions to these problems, but he also requires the two sides to make a quick decision, since the Olympic qualification competitions are to begin in a couple of days.

The IOC chief also praises Beijing's organizing work for the 2008 games.

Liu Wei, CRI News, Daegu, South Korea.