Olympics should not be politicized

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Source: CCTV.com | 03-16-2008 18:56

Special Report:   2008 Beijing Olympic Games
Special Report:   2008 NPC & CPPCC sessions

Politics recently stole the spotlight of the Beijing Olympic Games, after Steven Spielberg quit as artistic advisor to the opening and closing ceremonies. He left because of his views on China's role in Sudan. Let's hear the responses from the Chinese government and the world.

As the Beijing Olympics approach, some individuals  and groups are attempting to link sports event with various political issues to impose pressure on China.

"No kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas." That's what Section 51 of the Olympic Charter states.

But the modern Olympic movement has had to contend with wars, boycotts, protests, walkouts and even terrorist attacks. Some may still remember when the US boycotted the 1980 Moscow Games, and in return the Soviet Union boycotted the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics during the Cold War.

Beijing is no exception. As the Beijing Olympics approach, some individuals and groups are attempting to link sports event with various political issues to impose pressure on China.

Hollywood film director Steven Spielberg recently withdrew as an artistic advisor to the Games, becoming the latest high-profile figure to voice discontent with China's stance over Darfur issue in Sudan.

The Chinese government and leaders of other governments and organizations have expressed that politics should not be involved in the world's biggest sporting event.

At Wednesday's press conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said it is just a few who are biased against China that are politicizing the Beijing Olympics, and that they cannot represent the international community.

IOC President Jacques Rogge says the IOC should not be used as a political organization to solve global political issues.

More than 60 state or government heads across the world have made their plans to appear at the Beijing Olympics, a sign that the mainstream of the international community does not stand for politicization of the Games.

 

Editor:Xiong Qu