On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin traveled to Beijing and attended the opening. Before the start of the Olympics, he had demonstrated great unity with China’s President Xi on the Ukraine crisis and the growing tensions with the United States. China and Russia are linked “in the spirit of friendship and strategic partnership,” Putin said.
IOC President Thomas Bach speaks and is silent at the same time
“In our fragile world, where division, conflict and distrust are constantly increasing, we show the world: yes, it is possible to be bitter opponents, while at the same time living together peacefully and respectfully”, said IOC boss Thomas Bach in his speech addressed to the participants. There will be “no discrimination whatsoever” under the Olympic umbrella. Addressing politicians, Bach said: “Give peace a chance.”
He did not respond to criticism of the host. Bach had repeatedly emphasized the neutrality of the International Olympic Committee beforehand, thereby avoiding clear statements on the persecution of the Uyghurs and Tibetans, the suppression of the democracy movement in Hong Kong or freedom of expression by China.
Bach thanks China
Instead, Bach thanked the host country, whose ambition would enable a “new era for global winter sports”. “We can only write this new chapter in sports history thanks to our gracious hosts, the people of China, whom we thank from the bottom of our hearts for welcoming us all so warmly.”, he said. Bach also thanked the Chinese for their commitment during the pandemic, which “unfortunately” is still “reality”.
At the same time, he emphasized “our heart goes out to all the athletes who are unable to achieve their Olympic dream due to the pandemic”.