Bach says Rio 2016 Olympics will be 'safe games'

Brazil used about 150,000 soldiers and military police for security during last year's World Cup, a show of force that deterred the widely expected protests.

Bach's visit has offered embattled Rousseff a lift. Her popularity has plunged since her re-election in October due to a corruption scandal at state-run oil company Petrobras, where investigators say hundreds of millions of dollars have been siphoned off in kickback schemes.

The government has cut services, raised taxes and seen the value of the local currency fall 35 percent in value against the dollar in recent months.

Brazil spent about $12 billion on the World Cup. Olympic spending so far is $14 billion, a mixture of public and private money.

Bach said he invited Rousseff to light the Olympic flame in Greece just before the games.

He also hinted she might run a leg in the torch relay, which will circle Brazil just before the games open on Aug. 5, 2016.

"I hope very much we will be able to welcome her on this really historic moment," Bach said. "And maybe we'll see her even taking part in the Olympic torch relay."

Bach was asked if Rousseff had accepted the invitation.

"I can say I'm optimistic," he said.