International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach attends a news conference in Sochi, February 3, 2014. Sochi will host the 2014 Winter Olympic Games from February 7 to February 23.  [Photo/Agencies]

SOCHI, Russia - IOC President Thomas Bach says heavy security and criticism of Russia's anti-gay law will not detract from the Sochi Olympics.

Bach also reiterates his defense of Russia's spending on the games, saying the money is going to the long-term transformation of the region.

Speaking at a news conference four days before the opening ceremony, Bach voiced confidence in Russia's ability to deliver a safe Olympics amid threats of terror attacks by insurgents from the North Caucasus.

Bach says ``I have been assured before coming here and I am still assured being here.''

The IOC leader adds ``we have to address this because anything else would be surrender to terrorists'' and ``this is last thing we all want to do.''

Bach is also confident that uncompleted hotels will be ready in time.