Cameron says London will be ready for Olympics

Britain's Prime Minister David Cameron plays a game of badminton in the garden of 10 Downing Street with school athletes and London 2012 Organizing Committee (LOCOG) chairman Sebastian Coe, London, March 28, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - British Prime Minister David Cameron said on Wednesday that London will be ready to host the "greatest games" in the world.

Cameron made these remarks after meeting the visiting International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Jacque Rogge. "The Olympics and Paralympics will be the greatest show on earth. It's an extraordinary honor for the UK and we intend to repay that faith," he said.

"I believe the message is clear: London will be ready, on time and on budget."

Rogge, who arrived here late on Tuesday, is not part of the Coordination Commission for London 2012, which is chaired by IOC Executive Board member Denis Oswald, but he made the special visit to see Cameron on the first day of the two-day inspection.

Cameron said the Games will leave a lasting legacy.

He added: "The true legacy of London 2012 lies in the future. Though much has been done, I am acutely aware that the drive to embed and secure the benefits of London 2012 is still to come.

"That is our biggest challenge. It's also our greatest opportunity."

Britain's Prime Minister David Cameron plays a game of badminton in the garden of 10 Downing Street with school athletes and London 2012 Organizing Committee (LOCOG) chairman Sebastian Coe, London, March 28, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

Rogge said he has been impressed by what he has seen and believes London has provided a "legacy blueprint" for future Games to follow.

"London has raised the bar on how to deliver a lasting legacy," he said.

"We can already see tangible results in the remarkable regeneration of east London. This great historical city has created a legacy blueprint for future Games hosts."