Vice-Premier Liu Yandong emphasized the importance of China’s bid to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, during her visit to the bidding committee on Feb 15.

The Chinese government’s decision to bid for the Winter Olympic Games is an important way to further honor the spirit of the Olympics, promote winter sports, improve public health, offer a psychological boost - and realize the Chinese Dream, the vice-premier said.

She also said the country’s bidding efforts will adhere to international best practices, seek inspiration from successful experiences, take into account China’s basic national conditions - and contribute concretely to economic and social development.

The bidding committee told the vice-premier about its work, and she visited various departments - including those involved in publicity, project planning and sports.

She also spoke by video conference with the operating center based in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, praising the progress and results already achieved - and she extended Lunar New Year wishes to all the staff members.

Vice-Premier Liu said the bid will boost China’s soft power and international influence, drive the development of sectors such as recreation, culture and tourism - and those involved in building sports facilities.

Additionally, it will also advance the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, facilitate efforts to tackle air pollution in northern China and improve the environment.

She said all commitments involving the international community should be fully honored, and the construction of facilities should reflect the country’s efforts to rein in extravagance, and fully use existing facilities and resources.