第4篇Passage 4

Mr. President,

IOC members,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the Chinese government, I wish to reaffirm that our government stands firmly behind Beijing in its bid for the 2008 Olympic Games.

The Chinese Government respects and appreciates the conclusion reached by the IOC Evaluation Commission. We have worked out a plan accordingly to ensure an excellent Games in Beijing. The Chinese government will honor each and every commitment it has made in Beijing’s Candidature File and will do whatever it can to assist Beijing to fulfill its promises.

China embraces the Olympic spirit and has always been a staunch supporter behind the IOC initiatives.

Over the past five decades, thanks to, among other things, the nation-wide “fitness-for-all” sports campaign, our people’s health has been greatly improved, and the average life expectancy has increased from 35 years to 70. Our athletes have been doing quite well in the sports events organized by the IOC.

To further promote the Olympic spirit, China has also helped other developing countries with their sports facilities. For instance, we have helped them build 36 stadiums. And we will continue to do so in the future.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I wish to take this opportunity to pledge to you that if there is a surplus in the Games revenue, we will use it to set up an Olympic Friendship and Co-operation Fund for financing sports undertakings in developing countries. If there is a deficit, the difference will be covered by the Chinese Government.

China has been one of the fastest growing economies in the world over the past 20 years since its reform and opening-up. It has enjoyed continued political stability, social progress and economic prosperity.

An Olympic Games in Beijing will not only serve the interests of the Chinese people, but also promote the Olympic spirit and contribute to peace and friendship, stability and development in the world.

Many people in the world have a dream that one day they could come to China and visit Beijing. My fellow countrymen, for their part, share a strong desire to stage an excellent Olympic Games in Beijing, which, as they see it, is a great contribution to the Olympic Movement. I therefore hope, from the bottom of my heart, that you, distinguished IOC members, will help them realize their long-cherished aspirations.

Chinese sage Confucius says, “Is it not a delight after all to have friends come from afar!” Indeed, it is our delight to welcome all guests with open arms in Beijing in the year 2008. I am sure you will have a great Games in Beijing.

Thank you!