French Olympic delegation Chef de Mission Jacques Rey said on Tuesday that France aimed to at least match the seventh place they had achieved in Athens four years ago.

"Our aim is to chase 30 to 40 medals in Beijing, just like what we did in Athens," said Jacques after the flag-raising ceremony at the Olympic Village.

On the hot climate and air quality issue, Jacques refuted the criticism and showed his support to Beijing.

"I can't find any problem with the air. Today we also see the blue sky, so if you want to know Beijing, you have to come here and see by yourself," said Jacques.

"Besides, the temperature is not a problem. In Athens, everybody knows it's also very hot. Maybe the humidity here is much higher, but it's not a big hurdle," he added.

According to Jacques, the French delegation is composed of 324 athletes and 142 officials. Having witnessed the backslides at the past two Olympics, France vows to make a strong comeback in Beijing.

"Our athletes are ready now and maybe we could do much better than we did in Athens."

In Sydney, French won 38 medals including 13 golds and finished sixth on the medal table. But in Athens, the medal number reduced to 33 in total with 11 golds and they dropped to seventh place.

If they hope to stop another slide in the sweltering heat in August, French had to fuel their medals drive on the traditional disciplines like swimming, fencing, equestrian and cycling, which are all their favorite events at Summer Games.

(Xinhua News Agency August 6, 2008)