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IOC reiterate confidence in London Olympics success

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-11-28 10:25

LONDON -- International Olympic Committee (IOC) reiterated their confidence in the success of the London 2012 Olympics despite the economic downturn at the conclusion of weeklong Beijing Games debriefing on Thursday.

President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Jacques Rogge announces his decision to stand for a second term in office during a news conference in Brussels October 30, 2008. [Agencies]

Hein Verbruggen, chairman of the IOC coordination commission, believed that London would do no worse than Beijing although it cannot match the 2008 host city on human resources.

"Can London do the same thing as in Beijing? My answer is: Yes, " he said.

"Of course we were impressed in Beijing, but we will not forget its difference from other cities. There are unlimited resources, human resource available, a great number of volunteers, which you can't expect in many cities.

"But when it comes to organizing the Games, you shouldn't forget four years ago, we also had a very good organization in Athens."

Verbruggen also summarized the significant legacies left to Beijing in particular and China in general on environmental, technological issues.

IOC Olympic Games executive director Gilbert Felli praised Beijing for setting "new standards for organization, venues and athletic performances" and expected London to do even better.

"We can always improve," he said, "I'm confident that the London organizers will host a first-class event with a uniquely British atmosphere."

Hit by the global financial crisis, London is struggling to secure private funding for major Olympic construction projects. Organizers have also scrapped some temporary venues planned in the original bid to stay within a 9.3-billion-pound budget.

But IOC president Jacques Rogge Monday gave relief to London organizers by claiming "London has just to be London".

"There is no 'best' or 'greatest', there is just 'different'." said the IOC chief.

"Each Games is unique. It is not the amount of money spent that determines how good a Games is, it is also the unique and inspiring atmosphere created within the city. I'm sure London will do very well there." he said.

Sebastian Coe, chairman of London Organizing Committee, insisted that London was better prepared than ever "to deliver a great Game" and reported that the London budget was "balanced and on target".