BEIJING -- The Beijing 2022 organizing committee (BOCOG) on Sunday officially delivered its International Broadcast Center (IBC) project, as part of the Main Media Center (MMC), to the Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), marking a key milestone in Beijing 2022's preparations for Games-time broadcasting services.

According to Xu Jicheng, Director General of BOCOG's Media Operations Department, an estimated 15,000 registered journalists and 12,000 broadcasting staff will attend the Games, and more than four billion viewers will watch events on TV.

OBS CEO Yiannis Exarchos praised the project, describing the quality and design of the National Convention Center as "splendid", and adding that its completion marked the beginning of OBS's operations in Beijing.

Being the last project to break ground in the Beijing Competition Zone and the biggest in scale, the MMC was completed on time despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sitting in the southern part of China National Convention Center Phase II, the MMC is an integration of the traditional Main Press Center (MPC) and the IBC. BOCOG Deputy Secretary General Xu Zhijun said that this integration is an excellent example of Beijing 2022's adherence to the Olympic New Norm, adding that it would help cut costs, save space and improve efficiency.

"Following the guiding principles of 'simple, safe and splendid', we will spare no effort in the Games' final delivery. I believe with supports from all parties, we will witness, record and share the highlights and historical moments of an unparalleled Beijing 2022," said Xu.