Olympic Games 2008

China tells IOC to keep politics out of the Olympic Games

Article published on the 2008-04-10 Latest update 2008-04-10 13:05 TU

ICO President Jacques Rogge in Singapore in April 2008
(Photo : AFP)

China has responded strongly to the suggestion by IOC President Jacques Rogge that the Beijing Olympics are "in crisis". China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Jiang Yu, said that Rogge's statement might be "exaggerated" and that its record on human rights was not open for discussion.

The ministry has told Rogge to keep politics out of the Games.

"I believe IOC officials support the Beijing Olympics" Jiang said, pointing out that the Olympic Charter sought to exclude irrelevant political factors.

At a news conference Rogge also said that China had promised that its hosting of the games would lead to an improvement in human rights. He called on China to respect this "moral engagement".

Rogge had said he was saddened that these Olympics had been dogged by protests over Tibet and China's record on human rights. He said that, despite protests in London, Paris and San Francisco, the Olympic flame relay would continue.