Xi addresses IOC session in Beijing

He extended a warm welcome to IOC President Thomas Bach and IOC members who have gathered in Beijing, the first city to host both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games.

Xi said that the world today, under the combined impact of profound changes unseen in a century and a once-in-a-century pandemic, is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation and facing multiple challenges to humanity.

The IOC has led the Olympic Movement in forging ahead with courage and fortitude, playing an important and unique role in galvanizing global solidarity and cooperation to tide over this difficult time, he said.

Xi thanked the IOC for its active contribution to the development of sport in China over the past years, and for its strong support and guidance in China's bid and preparation for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

He stressed that from "One World, One Dream" in 2008, to "Together for a Shared Future" in 2022, China has taken active part in the Olympic Movement and consistently championed the Olympic spirit.

China is committed to pursuing the Olympic ideal with concrete actions, the president said.