Taiwan part of WorldSkills Competition opening ceremony in China

Shanghai, Sept. 23 (CNA) The opening ceremony of the 48th WorldSkills Competition was held in Shanghai on Tuesday night, with Taiwan's delegation participating and flying the Olympic flag, as expected.

Taking part in the event as "Chinese Taipei," Taiwan has sent 53 competitors to vie for honors in 47 skill categories at the biennial competition, often described as the "Olympics of skills," which runs from Sept. 22 to 27.

The skill events themselves will be held from Sept. 23 to 26.

The WorldSkills Competition brings together young skilled workers from around the world to compete in such fields as aircraft maintenance, refrigeration and air conditioning, baking and hairdressing.

Event organizers noted that most competitions are open to contestants aged 22 or younger, while the age limit is extended to 25 for several skills that require longer periods of training and experience.

This year's competition features 64 skill categories and 1,385 competitors from 68 countries and regions, according to organizers.

Taiwan placed fourth overall at the 2024 edition in Lyon, France, winning two gold, three silver and 10 bronze medals, as well as 28 Medallions for Excellence.