Xi calls for new ideas to ensure 'extraordinary' 2022 Games

Chinese President Xi Jinping (5th L) speaks after hearing a report on the preparations of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in Beijing, capital of China, March 18, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - President Xi Jinping on Friday urged new ideas to be implemented to ensure the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games "fantastic, extraordinary and excellent".

After he listened to reporting by top organizers of the Winter Olympics and Paralympics, Xi said that the ideas of innovation, coordination, green development, opening-up and sharing should be implemented in preparation for successful 2022 Games that will satisfy the international community and the Chinese people.

Beijing, with Zhangjiakou as a co-host, was awarded the 2022 Winter Olympics during an International Olympic Committee Session on July 31, 2015, when Xi threw his weight behind the bid, reiterating the nation's passion for the Games in a video speech played during a final presentation to the IOC members.

After Beijing won the bid, the Chinese president wrote to IOC President Thomas Bach to express thanks for the IOC's trust and long-term support.

Xi noted an extraordinary Winter Olympics will further showcase China's achievements in reform and opening-up as well as its efforts in promoting the peace and development of all of humanity.

He also emphasized the post-games use of Olympic stadiums and facilities, adding the already existent stadiums must be put into full play.

Xi pointed out that the preparation for the Winter Olympics and Paralympics can also be a strong push for the integration of Beijing and neighboring cities.

China is creating a new economic belt and environment-friendly zone which incorporates Beijing with the surrounding Hebei Province and Tianjin, a port city to the capital's southeast.

Xi stressed that preparing for the Winter Olympics and Paralympics is a systematic project which needs to draw on wisdom and resources from all walks of life.

In order to "host an Olympics as pure and clean as snow", Xi said, the budget should be more carefully reviewed, the costs be controlled and supervision be strengthened.