Beijing, China, September 17, 2019: A cheerful panda called Bing Dwen Dwen has been chosen as the Olympic mascot for the next Winter Games in Beijing in 2022.
The new Olympic mascot will serve as an ambassador for winter sports, bringing joy to those who participate in and watch the Olympic Winter Games.
“Bing” means ice and also symbolises purity and strength and “Dwen Dwen” represents children. The mascot embodies the strength and willpower of athletes and will help to promote the Olympic spirit.
Bing Dwen Dwen is encased in a full-body “shell” made of ice and the heart shape in its left palm represents the host country’s hospitality. The bright colours of the halo around its face represent ice and snow sport tracks, signifying connectivity and advanced technologies.
The newly launched Olympic mascot resembles an astronaut, embracing new technologies for a future with infinite possibilities.
Speaking at the announcement ceremony in Beijing on Tuesday, IOC President Thomas Bach said: “The launch of the mascot today will generate even more interest for these Games, especially among young people.
“The mascot incorporates the best elements and characteristics of China and the Chinese people. What I can say already is that it will be a wonderful ambassador for China and the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022.”
Recognised as a Chinese national treasure, the panda is deeply loved by people from all over the world, especially young people.
The Paralympic mascot, also revealed today, is called Shuey Rhon Rhon, a lantern child ready to welcome friends from around the world. The name signifies warmth, friendship, courage and perseverance.
The Beijing 2022 Organising Committee received over 5,800 mascot designs from China and 35 countries around the world in a global design competition.
Source: https://www.olympic.org