Eleven teams representing 8 countries participated at the 5th IMRC in China. This was a spectacular cultural event intended to be a precursor to Olympics which were to be held in Beijing in 2000. Numerous additional nations sent observers to competition.
Competition rules were prepared by the State Administration of Work Safety after consulting with external international mine rescue organizations. First place was awarded to Pingdingshan Coal Group Co. Ltd. P.R.China, second place went to Black Gold, South Coal, Poland and third place went to Yankuang Group Co. Ltd. P.R.China.
