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Mikhail Gorbachev: I completely support Sochi’s bid to host the 2014 Winter Olympics
The International Olympic Committee’s Evaluation Commission will arrive in Russia at the end of February to make its conclusions regarding Sochi’s bid to host the 2014 Winter Olympic Games. Former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev shared his views on the matter with Interfax correspondent Andrei Karplyuk.
- Mr. Gorbachev, my question to you will be straight: how do you feel about Sochi’s bid to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2014?
Andrei, my answer will also be straight and brief. I recommend and completely support Sochi’s bid to be the 2014 Winter Olympic Games host.
- Why?
There are many aspects here, but I would like to point out first of all that Russia is a great sporting power and has made an enormous contribution to the Olympic movement. However, we have never hosted the Winter Olympic Games. Therefore, we are entitled to raise this issue, and not only to raise it, but also to count on understanding.
- What would you say about Sochi as a possible venue for the Olympic Games?
To be short, I can assure you that Sochi is a good place, I have been there (laughing).
Speaking seriously, Sochi’s nature is unique in its appeal and in its potential for the holding of sporting events.
- Do you have any concerns that almost nothing is ready there?
I believe it is absolutely incorrect to say that nothing is ready there. After all, it stands to reason that a lot of people know and like Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana as a winter resort and travel there.
Indeed, it is quite a difficult job to set up the essential infrastructure and to build state-of-the-art sports facilities there, but this is absolutely realistic.
- Are you sure we can do it?
I am sure we can. But we need to speak less and start working hard. Moreover, those who prove incompetent simply need to be sacked – both at the federal and local government levels.
The people should also support this so that we can all strive for this together. After all, this will be beneficial to the country and its people – the Olympic Games will pass, but we will then have a developed infrastructure, a beautiful resort, and excellent opportunities to spend our vacations there and to play sports.
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