IOC official hails prospects for 2022 Winter Olympic Games

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International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach hailed the prospects for safe and successful Beijing Winter Olympics as Beijing 2022 began the one-year countdown on Thursday.

In an exclusive interview with the China Media Group (CMG), Bach praised the preparation work for the Winter Games and expressed full confidence for the much-anticipated event to be held successfully.

"I extend our great satisfaction with the state of preparation, because despite of the pandemic, all the venues are ready one year before (the Winter Games)," said Bach.

"I think that's a great example of Chinese dynamism, determination and efficiency."

The IOC president said no one can doubt that the Beijing Games will be highly regarded.

Amid the pandemic, both the Tokyo Summer Olympics and the Beijing Winter Olympics have drawn worldwide discussions, and Beijing could benefit from the peak awareness, Bach said.