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Jacques Rogge talks about security at the Games in Salt Lake City, progress of the Games in Athens and the mission of the Olympic Movement.

President Rogge, was it a dream for you to become IOC President?

Jacques Rogge: As an athlete, I did not even imagine this possibility, but when I became more experienced, I realised how much I wanted to serve the Olympic Movement. As Chef de mission at several editions of the Games, I have always held sport authorities in high regard and the IOC in particular. I always believed that I would offer my contribution to the world of sport. First of all I was elected President of the European Olympic Committees in 1989, then co-opted as an IOC member in 1991. For me, being a candidate in the election for the IOC presidency and to be elected as President was in line with my convictions and experiences.

In view of the events of 11 September, do you think that people will prefer to watch the Games on television or via the Internet rather than go to Salt Lake City? What would be the consequences of such a situation?

J.R: People are reassured by the security plans put in place. The ratio of local spectators to television viewers for Salt Lake City is no different to previous editions of the Winter Games. SLC is expecting nearly 1.5 million visitors during the 15 days of events. This figure includes athletes, officials, media and spectators. More than three billion people will also follow the events on television.

Since the Munich Olympic Games in 1972, the organisers' attention has been focussed on security. But now it is a major issue. What do you think about it? It is necessary to put tanks, military vehicles and soldiers on the streets of Salt Lake City to protect the population and the athletes?

J.R: The security plan for Salt Lake City, which was already very comprehensive before 11 September, has been adapted to take into account the new realities the world must face. Substantial numbers of forces will ensure everyone's security, but a large part of the measures will not be visible to the general public.

Much is said about preparations for the 2004 Games in Athens. What stage have they reached?

J.R: The organisers are experiencing delays, which causes great pressure as much on planning as activities. However, if they carry on at the same rate, they should stage excellent Games. The main problems to deal with are the construction and renovation of venues, the delivery of accommodation, and the completion of roads and other infrastructure projects. The Greek government's resolve to complete these projects on time will be critical for the ultimate success of these Games.

You also participated in the Olympic Games several times. What was your ranking? What were the defining moments of your sporting career? How do you draw on your sporting experiences in your role as World Sport President?

J.R : My first participation in the Games, with the Belgian sailing team, was one of the best moments of my sporting career. That was in Mexico in 1968. I did not win a medal, nor in Munich in 1972 or Montreal in 1976. My best ranking was 14th; I was an average sailor. Yes, I have had success in the World Cup, but my experiences at the Olympic Games remain the most important in my memory.

Sport instils in us good values. Working hard, discipline and respect for deadlines are sporting qualities that I draw on in my role.

What will Beijing 2008 bring to the Olympic Movement? What will the Olympic Movement bring to Beijing?

J.R: Beijing is going to offer the Olympic Movement great Games. The IOC elected Beijing to host the Games in 2008 because it had an excellent bid. Giving Beijing the opportunity to host the Games means offering Olympism to a fifth of humankind and giving them the chance to open up to the rest of the world. We can also hope that the Games will allow better understanding between the Chinese and other peoples of the world.

What will be the priorities of the Olympic Movement for the future?

J.R : Our primary mission will not change. This is to promote the values of Olympism and ensure the regular celebration of the Olympic Games. Within this framework, however, we are endeavouring to reduce the size of the Games to a more manageable level, to intensify the fight against doping and continue the reforms already underway.

A reasonable size for the Games is important because it must allow the continents that support them to be able to host them. Reforming our organisation and fighting against doping are important for the credibility of sport.