(BEIJING, August 7) -- On the occasion of the one-year countdown to the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Jacques Rogge gave the sponsors of the Games a feast at Peking Hotel on Tuesday.

Wang Qishan, mayor of Beijing and executive president of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG), Liu Jingmin, vice-mayor of Beijing and BOCOG executive vice-president, Gerhard Heiberg, chairman of the Marketing Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Hein Verbruggen, chairman of IOC Coordination Commission for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, and Yu Zaiqing, member of IOC Executive Board, vice-minister of General Administration of Sport and BOCOG executive vice-president attended the party.

In his remarks, Mr. Rogge expressed his sincere appreciation for the support of the 64 Worldwide Olympic Partners (TOP), Beijing 2008 Partners, Sponsors, Exclusive Suppliers and other Suppliers.

He said their support is an important guarantee for the long-term development of the Olympic Movement, a positive contribution to the Olympic spirit, and an indispensable backing for the Beijing Olympics. On the other hand, through their sponsorship, the enterprises are given both the opportunity to show their image and strength and more room for their own growth.

Echoing the president, Wang Qishan praised the sponsors' efforts, especially in promoting such charitable activities as environmental protection, Olympic education, sport for all and donations for the needed.

Up to 100 high-level managing staff of the 64 enterprises and famous Chinese athlete Liu Xiang attended the function.

Heiberg hosts the feast

Wang Qishan speaks.

Representatives of the sponsors

Liu Xiang (L) and Rogge

Liu Xiang at the feast

Wang Qishan proposes a toast to Charles Zhang, SOHU.com CEO

Liu Xiang expresses confidence over 2008 Olympic Games.