Athens gets Rogge approval

Olympic chief Rogge will meet the Greek prime minister

Olympic president Jacques Rogge believes Athens is ready to host the 2004 Summer Games.

The chief of the International Olympic Committee made his views known after arriving in the Greek capital nine days prior to the start of the Games.

"I think it's a magic moment because this is the culmination of seven years of preparation," said Rogge.

"We're very excited and I'm sure Athens is ready. The IOC has always expressed its confidence in its Greek friends."

Rogge was greeted by the Athens Games organising committee chief Gianna Angelopoulos and Greek National Olympic Committee president Lambis Nikolaou on arrival in the host city.

The IOC president is also scheduled to meet Greek prime minister Costas Karamanlis.

Rogge added: "Athens will give a magical games and I know that all the athletes around the world have had the dream to come and compete at the Olympics."

On Tuesday, Karamanlis said he was satisfied Athens was ready to host the multi-sport extravaganza.

"The Olympic installations and infrastructure are ready to welcome, host and serve the Olympic family, the athletes, the journalists and the spectators coming from around the world," he said.

"Together we made it this far and together we will achieve the common aim of hosting extraordinary Games under conditions of maximum security."