Intro:

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach criticised world leaders for politicising the Olympic Games as Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed delegates to Sochi on Tuesday (4 February).

Script:

SOUNDBITE (English) Thomas Bach, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President:
"We are grateful to those who respect the fact that sport can only contribute to development and peace if it is not used as a stage for political dissent, or for trying to score points in internal or external political contests. To other political leaders we say: 'please understand what our responsibilities are, and what your responsibilities are. Have the courage to address your disagreements in a peaceful, direct political dialogue and not on the backs of the athletes'."