[OLY] IOC head supports Moon's peace overture over Winter Olympics

By Park Sae-jin Posted : July 3, 2017, 14:15 Updated : July 3, 2017, 14:15

[Yonhap News Photo]


International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach extended his strong support to President Moon Jae-in's initiative to draw North Korea into next year's Winter Olympics in South Korea's eastern ski resort of Pyeongchang.

During talks at the presidential Blue House, Bach said he "actively" supports Moon's conciliatory overture towards North Korea saying it corresponds with the Olympic spirit of peace, according to Moon's office.

Moon suggested North Korea's presence in Pyeongchang would contribute much to publicity and ticket sales, calling for IOC's help. "North Korea's participation in the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics will inspire the spirit of Olympics and also contribute to regional and global peace as well as the harmony of mankind," he was quoted as saying.

Moon promised to seek support from Chinese President Xi Jinping over North Korea's participation in the Winter Games, saying his talks with US President Doland Trump in Washington over the weekend paved the way for Seoul to push for cross-border sports exchanges.

Bach meet with North Korea's IOC member Chang Ung last week on the sidelines of a Taekwondo event in South Korea. Chang voiced skepticism over the two Koreas forming a unified team, citing political tensions and procedural difficulties. Moon's office said the issue should be taken up only after Pyongyang made a pledge to send an Olympic team.

Lim Chang-won = cwlim34@ajunews.com

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