"What China has shown to the whole world is marvellous," Zoumaro Gnonfam, president of the Togolese Olympic Committee, told Xinhua in an exclusive interview on Wednesday.

Gnonfam saluted the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, saying he could not "really describe it in the most appropriate way."

"It's wonderful. I cannot describe it. You had to be there to know what China has shown to the world. I am amazed and happy that China has reached such a level in its development," said the Togolese official, who was in Beijing for the opening gala.

The Beijing Olympics has been "impeccable in organization, discipline and security," he said.

"Despite the time difference, the athletes were made comfortable thanks to China's appropriate arrangements."

"During the preparation period, I was among those who were concerned about the pollution," he said. However, the pollution in Beijing has been remarkably reduced. "It's really a great step in the city's construction," Gnonfam said.

He also expressed his satisfaction about the performance of the Togolese athletes in the Beijing Games.

The canoeing bronze won by Benjamen Boukpeti, which is Togo's first Olympic medal, symbolizes the "honor and pride" of his nation, he said.

The Togolese athletes' initial intention was to participate and stand alongside their "Chinese brothers" at the international sports fete, said Gnonfam.

"Now we have gained much more than pure participation, having our flag raised among the Olympians, and we are quite satisfied," he said.

Gnonfam also wished the ongoing games and the closing ceremony every success.

(Xinhua News Agency August 21, 2008)