Ioannis Sgouros wishes Beijing Olympics sucess

　　(BEIJING, March 20) -- On Thursday morning, at a press conference in Athens, prefect Ioannis Sgouros told reporters that plans for the torch relay were on the verge of completion and confirmed that Greece was ready to enact the torch lighting ceremony on March 24.

　　Sgouros remarked that although China and Greece were separated by tens of thousands of miles, the two countries shared in the fact that they both have long, brilliant histories.

　　The prefect continued on to remark on his satisfaction regarding Beijing's preparations for the Olympics. He noted that the work accomplished by the capital city has fulfilled the requirements for hosting an Olympic Games.

　　Reflecting upon the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, the prefect told reporters that the largest problem facing any Olympic host city is traffic congestion. He is certain that when the time comes, BOCOG and other related committees and organizations will adequately address the issue.

　　Recently, millions of workers demanding reforms went on strike in Greece. In response to concerns about whether or not the strike would have any impact on the torch relay on the peninsula, the prefect smiled reassuringly. Sgouros told reporters that the relay would not be in the least bit affected by striking workers. He added that the Greeks have much respect for the Olympics, and would not allow anything to hinder the progression of the torch relay.

　　Towards the end of the interview, Sgouros wished the Beijing Olympic Games success, and hoped that the budding friendship between Greece and China will continue to flourish.