The whole world will rejoice in the Beijing Olympics, which the government and people of China have made every effort to prepare for, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan told Xinhua in a recent written interview.

Sargsyan expressed his belief that the Beijing Olympics will be a complete success, and wished the Olympic teams of China and Armenia good luck in the forthcoming Games.

The president, who is due to attend the opening ceremony at China's invitation, said all Armenians have concentrated their attention on Beijing. "I will be in good mood when I am in Beijing and will stand by our athletes," he said.

He added that the Chinese athletes made earnest preparations for the Olympics, and hoped that they will fare well in the sports event.

The Olympics are of special significance for Armenia, Sargsyan said, noting that "the Olympic tradition has long been merged into the blood of Armenians." "As early as the 4th century AD, the King of Armenia was invited to take part in the ancient Olympics and won championship in wrestling. Today, many Armenian athletes will be memorized as Olympic winners," he said.

Sargsyan, who also chairs the Armenian Chess Association, is an avid sports fan. "Armenia respects sports. In spite of its small population and territory, it establishes a good reputation by some famous athletes and recorded brilliant victories in the history of world sports," he said.

In the view of the president, sports should serve to enhance friendship between countries and peoples instead of being used for other purposes. Sports only consist of two points, "firstly, friendship, and secondly, competition," he said.

Talking about his upcoming visit to China, Sargsyan said China and Armenia have a friendly relationship, with no dispute in politics, and the two countries share common standings on regional and international affairs.

Recalling his visit to China as defense minister seven years ago, which left him a deep impression, Sargsyan said he has paid close attention to China's development and felt joyful for the diligent and kind Chinese people for their achievements. He expects to witness the changes occurred in China during his visit.

The Armenian leader expressed his confidence that the two countries have great potential in cooperation, noting that bilateral trade increased sharply in recent years, and cooperation in agriculture, high-technology and other fields also progressed.

(Xinhua News Agency August 7, 2008)