© dpa
Shortly before the decision on Germany’s bid for the Olympics, numerous representatives of Berlin’s civil society spoke out in favour of the capital city.
132 companies, institutions, associations, clubs, social organisations, retailers and initiatives signed a declaration to this effect, according to the organisers of Berlin’s bid for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This shows just how deeply the idea has now taken root in the city, said Kaweh Niroomand, the Olympic Commissioner. “Whether it’s a large company, a sports club, a social organisation or a small Berlin business: they all stand for this city and help shape it every day.” The statement reads: “We see the bid as a project for the future of our city and our region. It is intended to be far more than simply an opportunity to host an international sporting event. It is intended to make a lasting contribution to Berlin’s development and to benefit people in the long term.” This is underpinned by seven guiding principles.
Berlin, together with Brandenburg, Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, is competing alongside Munich and the Ruhr region – which includes Cologne – to be selected to host the 2036, 2040 or 2044 Games. The German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) will announce its decision at its general meeting in Baden-Baden on 26 September.