After stating that he was “very pleased” with the fact that the IOC’s Evaluation Commission Report depicted the Salzburg bid as “an excellent concept,” Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer today reaffirmed the strength of the Federal Government’s commitment to all guarantees required by the IOC.

“The Olympic Empowerment Law ratified by our Parliament last November,” Gusenbauer said, “provided the authority to deliver on each and every guarantee the IOC required.  Having delivered the full package of written guarantees, I want to reaffirm that our Federal Government has unconditionally guaranteed every dollar needed for the OCOG and Non-OCOG budgets.”

“On the issue of security,” Gusenbauer said, “the Federal Government has guaranteed to cover any and all costs, whatever they may be to ensure a safe and secure Winter Games in 2014.” 

“Austria has been recognized for years as one of the three safest nations in the world,” the Chancellor added. “We are uncompromising in our commitment to security at all the events we host.” 

“As a matter of policy, the details of Austrian security planning are never disclosed publicly, but no one should doubt our absolute commitment to providing the support needed from our police, security and military forces.”

Chancellor Gusenbauer also drew attention to the level of public support for the Winter Games in Austria.  He said, “Don’t let anyone tell you there will ever be a single empty seat at an Olympic winter event in Salzburg.  The passion for winter sports in this country is unrivaled—it is part of our DNA.  Whether it be attending events, volunteering or watching on TV, the Austrian people demonstrate their passion.”

“I know the true level of support there is for the Salzburg bid in this country,” he said. “Not just from the polls I’ve seen but from the enthusiasm I have experienced as I travel across the country.”