The President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach is calling for the participation of all athletes in the upcoming Winter Beijing Olympics in what he says should be “politically neutral games”.

The 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, China officially begin tomorrow.

“Today we can be happy and proud that apparently this message got through. All the athletes who have been overcoming great uncertainties in this respect for so long can make their dream come true and compete at the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022.

“The Olympic Games are the symbol of peace and unity, showing us the way to a better and more peaceful future,” said Bach, speaking in Beijing.

Some countries have decided to boycott the Beijing Winter Olympics, having condemned China for human rights violations.

China has gone to great efforts to prepare for the Games and to welcome athletes from all over the world.

The IOC boss is calling on “all political leaders around the world to observe their commitment to the Olympic Truce so that these Olympic Winter Games can become this precious symbol”.

Bach continued: “Sport alone cannot create peace because words and Olympic symbols are also important to show us how the world can look like, if we all respect the same rules and each other.”