Greece Is “On Track” for Athens Games Says IOC

ATHENS, Greece, December 31. NEXT year's Athens Games are on track, said International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge yesterday, but organizers of the 2004 Olympics face "tough days" in the months ahead if all is to be ready on schedule, according to reports by Reuters and Xinhuanet, the Chinese news agency.

IOC inspectors have repeatedly warned, however, that timetables remain tight and that organizers need to keep up the pace of their work to stage an event worthy of the birthplace of the Games.

Nonetheless, in his new year's address, Rogge said "The International Olympic Committee embraces the progress of Olympic preparations with full confidence."

Greece fell badly behind in its preparations three years ago. But the country has increased efforts to make up for lost time and Rogge praised their efforts in bringing key projects back on track.

Concernsd remain, however, about terrorism and questions have been raised by the US and others about Greece's security prepararations.
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