Russian sports minister welcomes U.S. Olympics Committee proposal that Russians, Belarusians be allowed to compete in 2024 Summer Olympics

MOSCOW. Dec 14 (Interfax) - The opinion that Russian and Belarusian athletes should be allowed to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris aired by Susanne Lyons, chair of the Board of Directors of the United States National Olympic and Paralympic Committee, is shared in other countries, as well, Russian Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin said.

"This expresses the opinion of not only American athletes, but we've also heard reasonable voices from all continents. Russia is a reliable partner of global sports, which made any events competitive and attractive. Without Russians and Belarusians, international sport has become poorer and less attractive," Matytsin told journalists.

"We hope that this is a step accommodating our athletes. We are continuing our dialogue with the International Olympic Committee and international federations, and I hope and would wish that 2023 should herald good news and our athletes return to international sports," he said.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommended in February 2022 that Russian and Belarusian athletes be suspended from competing internationally, and most of international sports federations have followed the IOC's recommendation.

Lyons has suggested that Russians and Belarusians be allowed to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris as neutral athletes.