(BEIJING, Oct. 15) -- The mayor of Riga, Janis Birks, told Xinhua Monday that he believes in the success of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

Following his visit in September and October to Beijing, Shanghai and Suzhou, Birks noted that he was stunned by the enormous economic and social achievement over the last two decades and also expressed appreciation for the optimistic attitude on life and hospitality of the Chinese people.

He said that he saw beautiful and impressive sports stadiums and facilities in Beijing and felt the Beijingers' passion for the Olympic preparations. He deemed that the International Olympic Committee's choice of China and Beijing for the 2008 Olympic Games is a very wise decision because China is an important, large country and plays an increasingly important role in the world's political and economic arena. As the capital of China, Beijing's Olympic preparations have won the support of the government and the people.