| BEIJING, CHINA-(29-10-2004) Following three days of positive meetings, the IOC’s Coordination Commission successfully concluded its third visit to the host city of the 2008 Olympic Games. “The eyes of the world, as well as the full attention of the IOC, are turning towards Beijing following the success of Athens 2004”, said Coordination Commission Chairman Hein Verbruggen. “We have been able to see for ourselves the progress being made by BOCOG, the Beijing Municipal Government and the Chinese Government. Importantly, we have also seen that these stakeholders are working together in an effective way.”
Normal procedure
“Plans are becoming reality here in Beijing”, continued Mr Verbruggen. “As is normal during the preparations for any Olympic Games, the organising committee’s plans are being revised in some areas, with the full participation of the International Sports Federations where necessary. The IOC looks forward to seeing BOCOG’s plans continue to become reality during the coming weeks, months and years, as preparations continue for excellent Olympic and Paralympic Games in Beijing.”
Early successes
BOCOG has already achieved early successes in areas such as marketing, where a number of national partners have brought impressive contributions of financial support and technical ability.
Vital experience from past Games
This week’s meetings of the IOC Coordination Commission in Beijing are being followed with a full debrief of Athens 2004, where the IOC will facilitate the sharing of lessons learned from the successful hosting of this year’s Olympic Games. “Beijing has recognised the importance of learning from those with crucial experience and expertise”, said Mr Verbruggen. “The IOC, our friends from Athens 2004 and from elsewhere within the Olympic Movement have vital experience from past Games, and are coming here to transfer their knowledge, adding to the advice of the Coordination Commission.”
Two visits per year
Since the election of Beijing as host city in 2001, the IOC Coordination Commission has visited annually. From 2005, there will be two visits per year, with the next planned for May 2005. Smaller working group meetings take place on a more regular basis, and the IOC and BOCOG are in constant contact.
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