IOC chief: Hangzhou Asian Games will set new standards

IOC President Thomas Bach said on Saturday he is looking forward to Asian Games, which will set new standards in many different respects.

Bach is in Hangzhou for the Games, which open on Saturday night with a grand opening ceremony.

"We are seeing a great number of new sports. We'll see an organization that is making a use of all the digital expertise, with China and Hangzhou, in particular, with the Alibaba headquarters, has to offer.

"We can look forward to the Games, which will be organized in a very sustainable way with the reduction of the carbon footprint with extensive waste management system. And we can look forward to the Games which the athletes will enjoy," Bach told media.

He praised the organizers for their great efforts to create a welcoming sporting gala.

"When you look at them, the state of the art and all this combined with the Chinese efficiency and hospitality in organizing and the big smiles of the volunteers. So we can really look forward to a great event. So enjoy this evening at the opening ceremony and then enjoy brilliant Asian games here in Hangzhou."