IOC: "Beijing has best ever Olympic village"

BEIJING, Aug. 2 (Xinhua) -- International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge said here on Saturday the Beijing Olympic Village was the best ever and he also piled praises on the Games organization.

"I had the privilege to reside in the Olympic Village since the 1968 Mexico Games, and I never saw a village like this. It is outstanding," said Rogge at his first press conference in Beijing. The Olympic Village, which opened on July 27, is a 66-hectare compound for about 16,000 athletes and their entourage.

"By all accounts, especially the athletes, the village is the best ever," he said after touring the compound on Friday. Rogge, who arrived in Beijing on Thursday, also reiterated his confidence in the Games success. "The venues are ready and have produced about 37 tests events...we have absolutely no concern for the organization," he said. "I'm sure that on Aug. 9th, the day after the opening ceremony, the magic of the Games and the flawless organization will take over," he said.