Hualien Signs as Host City for the 2026 Int'l Children’s Games

(中央社訊息服務20250516 16:03:11)To welcome the 58th International Children’s Games (ICG) in 2026, the Hualien County Government held the “ICG 2026 Host City Signing Ceremony and Executive Committee Inauguration” this morning (May 16) at the Hualien County Sports and Recreation Park. With the official signing of the host city agreement with ICG, County Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei declared that Hualien will go all out to bring honor to both the county and Taiwan.

“Shining Hualien!” Mayor Hsu expressed great pride in securing the hosting rights for the 2026 ICG. The county government will mobilize resources from the central and local governments, as well as from the private sector, to ensure thorough preparation for the event. The goal is to not only deliver a successful international competition but also make Hualien a major stage for global youth sports exchange. Mayor Hsu hopes the event will broaden international horizons for Taiwanese youth, foster cross-cultural interactions, and raise global awareness of Hualien and Taiwan. She extended a warm invitation for everyone to take part in this significant event next year and witness Hualien’s athletic capabilities.

ICG President Mr. Igor Topole remarked that although Hualien experienced the April 3rd earthquake during the bidding process, the city demonstrated remarkable resilience, which affirmed ICG’s decision to award the hosting rights to Hualien. He praised Hualien’s stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, expressing confidence in the city's ability to host successful Games. He looks forward to welcoming youth athletes and city representatives from around the world to experience Hualien’s unique charm and friendliness in 2026.

Ms. Hsu Hsiu-Ling, Director of the Department of International and Cross-Strait Sports at the Sports Administration, Ministry of Education, congratulated both Hualien and Taiwan. She noted that this marks the third time Taiwan will host the ICG, following Taipei in 2002 and New Taipei City in 2016. The soon-to-be-established Ministry of Sports (slated for September) will support Hualien’s organizing efforts and ensure the event runs smoothly, aligning with national goals to popularize, industrialize, and internationalize sports.

The signing ceremony began with a powerful Taekwondo performance by the Guofeng Junior High team, showcasing the energy and spirit of Hualien’s youth and setting a vibrant tone for the event. In addition to the contract signing and plaque unveiling, Mayor Hsu also presented appointment certificates to members of the 2026 ICG Executive Committee, officially launching the organizing team.

The Hualien County Sports and Recreation Park’s Math Interactive Pavilion has also incorporated the ICG 2026 theme, featuring technology-integrated interactive installations that allow visitors to enjoy the fun of sports. Delegates from the ICG Executive Committee experienced the exhibits firsthand, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere.

Distinguished guests in attendance included ICG President Mr. Igor Topole, Vice President Mr. Chulwon Shin, Secretary General Mr. Hugh Waters, Treasurer Mr. Julien, Executive Committee Member Mr. Nikolaos, Committee Member Chang Fen-Fen, Sports Administration Director Hsu Hsiu-Ling, Secretary General of the High School Sports Federation Chu Tsai-Feng, Deputy Secretary General of the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee Tseng Wen-Hung, Legislative Assistant Chiu Hui-Min (on behalf of Legislator Fu Kun-Chi), Acting Secretary General of the County Government Jao Chung, Education Department Director Weng Shu-Min, County Council Members Dibus ilai, Han Lin-Mei, and Lin Ze-Si, Hualien County Sports Association Chairman Wang Jin-De, Korfball Committee Chair Wang Ching-Hua, Football Committee Deputy Secretary General Liu Wei-Tso, Basketball Committee Chair Liu Yuan-Liang, Ji’an Township Mayor Yu Shu-Chen, Ji’an Farmers’ Association Secretary General Chang Te-Chi, Dongdamen Fucheng Night Market Committee Chair Huang Chia-Ming, Hualien Stone Art Street Business District Chair Lo Yu-Ting, and Hualien Leisure Tourism Association Supervisor Chung Hsiang-Ho.

The Hualien County Government is actively preparing for the Games and plans to train a professional international volunteer team to offer top-tier service to athletes and visitors from around the world. With the 2026 ICG as a launching point, Hualien aims to build a sports and cultural event of global significance, boost tourism and local economic development, and enhance its visibility and image on the international sports stage.