Rio ready to welcome world for Olympics, IOC chair says
Rio de Janeiro - Nawal El Moutawakel, chair of the Coordination Commission for the International Olympic Committee
“Rio 2016 is ready to welcome the world. The Olympians of 2016 can look forward to living in an outstanding Olympic Village and competing in absolutely stunning venues,” said Nawal El Moutawakel, chair of the Coordination Commission for the International Olympic Committee (IOC). She described the facilities as “state-of-the-art” and highlighted the city's natural beauty 25 days before the kickoff of the Games.
“I cannot imagine more spectacular backdrops for the world’s top sportsmen and women to showcase their talents to a watching world,” El Moutawakel said. She has kept a close watch on the preparation for the Games since 2009 and conducted the final inspections in the last few days, and pointed out that Brazilians “have also transformed the city through a legacy vision that they have made a reality. Not just by delivering all the venues and services that the Games require on time, but also by creating a legacy that will benefit local citizens and the whole country for decades.”
In the text, the IOC official stated that the venues are receiving their final touches before the arrival of the athletes, which should take place in about two weeks. El Moutawakel noted that the new Metro Line 4 is currently in its final testing phase and should be operational during the Olympic Games, along with the Bus Rapit Transit (BRT).
According to the IOC, the World Health Organization recommended no travel restrictions to countries where Zika virus is transmitted, and declared that authorities and organizers have explained the efforts aimed at lowering the risks of infection. “It was also pointed out that the Games will take place during the winter months of August and September, when the drier, cooler climate greatly reduces the presence of mosquitoes and therefore the risk of infection.”
As for security measures, 85 thousand agents will be engaged during the Games, supported by forces from 55 countries, “guaranteeing the security of the Olympic Village, the sports venues and key infrastructure, such as the city's airports and main roads.”
Nawal El Moutawakel praised the Cariocas and Brazilians in general, saying they are “warm and hospitable” people. “Spectators visiting Rio this August will be able to fully experience that spirit, as they go to the venues, visit the live sites [spots where the games will be transmitted] and discover the city.”
Translated by Fabrício Ferreira
Fonte: Rio ready to welcome world for Olympics, IOC chair says
