China's first Olympic Games may still be years away, but the deadlines for a host of projects essential to the success of the event are now within sight.

Before the end of the year, the Organizing Committee for Beijing Olympics, known as BOCOG, wants to have finished the designs and adjustments for all its venues, pushed forward its marketing plan and confirmed its mascot.

The committee also wants to have established its technical and information systems, and advanced significantly in terms of its logistic services and security strategies.

In addition to outlining BOCOG's 2005 goals on Friday during its Second Plenary Session, the world's athletes and sports fans were told to expect an excellent Games that would be full of "Chinese characteristics."

BOCOG President Liu Qi said the event would feature classical Chinese and modern styles.

"As well as showcasing China's distinctive characteristics, we will deliver a high-level of Olympics to the world in every aspect," he said.

During the meeting, BOCOG Executive President Wang Qishan, who is also the mayor of Beijing, touched on the committee's highlights for last year.

According to Wang, the construction of the venues progressed smoothly and several large cultural activities to promote the event went off without a hitch.

"This will be another big year for BOCOG and we are looking forward to making further progress with a lot of assistance and ideas for the public," he said.

(China Daily January 17, 2005)