Putin tells reporters he hopes they stop mixing sport and politics
- 10 years ago
A Swiss welcome for Russian president Vladimir Putin as he stops by the House of Switzerland in the Olympic Park in Sochi.
Putin has staked his reputation on the 51-billion dollar Games, which have at times been overshadowed by international outcry over a contentious "anti-gay propaganda" law and what human rights groups see as an overall crackdown on political dissent.
Putin says he hopes sports can be removed from politics.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN PRESIDENT, VLADIMIR PUTIN, SAYING:
"Is there a hope you will not tie sports with politics? Is there that hope? I think there is."
Meanwhile in Moscow dozens of activists gather in Gorky Park protesting against political repression and homophobia.
Putin has staked his reputation on the 51-billion dollar Games, which have at times been overshadowed by international outcry over a contentious "anti-gay propaganda" law and what human rights groups see as an overall crackdown on political dissent.
Putin says he hopes sports can be removed from politics.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) RUSSIAN PRESIDENT, VLADIMIR PUTIN, SAYING:
"Is there a hope you will not tie sports with politics? Is there that hope? I think there is."
Meanwhile in Moscow dozens of activists gather in Gorky Park protesting against political repression and homophobia.