Su Li-chiung has been appointed by Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je and will be responsible for coordinating the efforts of various City Government departments to prepare for hosting the Universiade, due to take place in 2017 from August 19 to 30.  

Ko is reported to have wanted someone who can continue to oversee personnel affairs and still be able to immediately begin work on organising what will be largest international sports event Taiwan has ever hosted.

Su helped towards the organisation of the 2009 World Games in Kaohsiung, while serving in the City Government in southern Taiwan.

Meanwhile, it has been announced that stringent security measures will be put in place to ensure the safety of Taiwan during the Universiade.

In response to the devastating terrorist attacks in Paris earlier this month, Ko has revealed a special identification taskforce will be in operation to prevent disguised terrorists from entering venues during the Games. 

Approximately 100,000 Games participants and spectators will have their identities confirmed, while identity cards with electronic chips will be distributed to members of the media, VIPs, Government officials, volunteers and cleaning employees.

Competing countries will be required to submit estimates regarding the number of participants attending the Universiade by July of next year, with official attendance applications due to open four months before the Games begin.

Earlier this month, Taiwan’s special police force underwent a three-week training programme in security and anti-terrorism operations with the assistance of the United States Army Special Forces.

The training covered human rights education, strategic medicine, shooting, urban fighting, indoor combat and hostage rescue.

Taipei were awarded the Universiade in November 2011 by the International University Sports Federation, beating Brazilian capital Brasilia. 

South Korean city Gwangju hosted this year's edition in July. 


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