.The Iraqi government has told Sky News Online that it hopes to host the Olympic Games one day.
"Without doubt, as Iraq emerges from the ashes of the past, it will very soon be able to compete for Summer Games," Iraq's National Security Advisor Mowaffak al Rubaie said.
His optimistic words came as two of the four Iraqi Olympians in Beijing prepare for their last event.
Haidar Nozad and Hamzah Hussein Jebur row in the men's double sculls later today.
Dr Rubaie said his whole country backed the athletes.
"The Iraqi people and government are extremely proud of you. You have our blessings and best wishes for success in your competition," he said.
"Let the whole world know that Iraq is back as a functioning democracy and member of the international community."
The two Iraqi rowers have been joined by Haidir Nasir and Dana Hussein Abdulrazak - all lucky to be in Beijing.
Until a couple of months ago they were banned from the Games over alleged government interference in Iraq's national committee.
"The Iraqi government is very pleased that the Olympic Committee agreed to allow our athletes compete with their challengers from the rest of the world" Dr Rubaie said.
"This new democratic Iraqi government will give top priority and support to competitive sports without any bias or favouritism.
"In the new Iraq, all capable athletes will be given a chance and supported in their competitions in Iraq, the region, and the world."
To have sent a team at all is a success for Iraq. But this year they've managed to field just four athletes.
In Athens in 2004 they fielded 25. Since then though, their Olympians have faced death threats.
Two years ago the entire Iraqi taekwondo team disappeared en-route to an Olympic training camp in Jordan. Last summer their bodies were found. They had been murdered.
Their deaths followed those of the cycling and wrestling coaches.
There is little doubt that sport in Iraq has come a long way. The Olympic team was once led by Saddam Hussein's son Uday. He tortured those who didn't perform to his standard.
Dr Rubaie hopes many more athletes will compete in London 2012.
"Keep your eyes open, and you will see a rebirth of Iraqi sports with a much more robust team in 2012," he said.
"This year's team endured sacrifice and difficulties. The 2012 team will have much more time and support to develop their skills and be in the running for medals in all their sports."
Sky News
You think there is any fear of Russia in that statement?
These people have not been too optimistic, or to colorful in the democratic rhetoric. Why now? Is it the smooth running Chinese Olympics, or fear of being left outside the sphere of western protection. I know we did not send any troops to protect Georgia, but you cant have missed the France President going in and laying down the law in Moscow. I mean, that's has to count for something.
His optimistic words came as two of the four Iraqi Olympians in Beijing prepare for their last event.
Haidar Nozad and Hamzah Hussein Jebur row in the men's double sculls later today.
Dr Rubaie said his whole country backed the athletes.
"The Iraqi people and government are extremely proud of you. You have our blessings and best wishes for success in your competition," he said.
"Let the whole world know that Iraq is back as a functioning democracy and member of the international community."
The two Iraqi rowers have been joined by Haidir Nasir and Dana Hussein Abdulrazak - all lucky to be in Beijing.
Until a couple of months ago they were banned from the Games over alleged government interference in Iraq's national committee.
"The Iraqi government is very pleased that the Olympic Committee agreed to allow our athletes compete with their challengers from the rest of the world" Dr Rubaie said.
"This new democratic Iraqi government will give top priority and support to competitive sports without any bias or favouritism.
"In the new Iraq, all capable athletes will be given a chance and supported in their competitions in Iraq, the region, and the world."
To have sent a team at all is a success for Iraq. But this year they've managed to field just four athletes.
In Athens in 2004 they fielded 25. Since then though, their Olympians have faced death threats.
Two years ago the entire Iraqi taekwondo team disappeared en-route to an Olympic training camp in Jordan. Last summer their bodies were found. They had been murdered.
Their deaths followed those of the cycling and wrestling coaches.
There is little doubt that sport in Iraq has come a long way. The Olympic team was once led by Saddam Hussein's son Uday. He tortured those who didn't perform to his standard.
Dr Rubaie hopes many more athletes will compete in London 2012.
"Keep your eyes open, and you will see a rebirth of Iraqi sports with a much more robust team in 2012," he said.
"This year's team endured sacrifice and difficulties. The 2012 team will have much more time and support to develop their skills and be in the running for medals in all their sports."
Sky News
You think there is any fear of Russia in that statement?
These people have not been too optimistic, or to colorful in the democratic rhetoric. Why now? Is it the smooth running Chinese Olympics, or fear of being left outside the sphere of western protection. I know we did not send any troops to protect Georgia, but you cant have missed the France President going in and laying down the law in Moscow. I mean, that's has to count for something.
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