The legacy of the Summer Olympics back in 2008 could help Beijing get to host the Winter Games. (Photo : Reuters)
The International Olympic Committee’s Evaluation Commission for the 2022 Olympic Winter Games lauded the hosting capabilities of Beijing and Zhangjiakou after a five-day visit to the two bidding cities.
Alexander Zhukov, the IOC Supervisory Board Chairman, stated that Beijing and Zhangjiakou are very capable hosts of the anticipated winter edition of the Olympic games.
"From this visit we can see that your Games in 2008 have left a profound legacy. We can see this legacy in the venues just outside this hotel, and in your plans to use many of those venues in 2022," Alexander remarked during a press conference.
In a separate news conference, the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games Bid Committee also gave high praises, citing the advantages of the bidding cities.
According to Beijing Municipal Party Secretary Guo Jinlong, China could give a fresh, significant contribution to the said global sports event by hosting its 2022 edition.
Guo said: "We have the confidence, the ability and the hope we can make a new contribution to the Olympics."
"Ladies and gentlemen, the inspection was short and unforgettable. You brought us very meaningful help, and brought forth progress for deep cooperation between us and the IOC," the party secretary added.
Beijing Mayor Wang Anshun said that the two cities have sound environmental conditions as well as high-quality supporting services and infrastructure constructions.
Mayor Wang also cited the previous legacy brought about by the capital city's successful hosting of the 2008 Olympic Summer Games. He further recounted the city's top-level venues and experiences in holding other global games.
The IOC is scheduled to decide who between the bidders will host the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in July in Kuala Lumpur. Apart from the Beijing-Zhangjiakou tandem, Kazakhstan's Almaty is also vying for the role.
