The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games will not only enhance understanding and friendship among countries and regions, but also boost confidence and hope for mankind in the face of challenges, according to a statement released by the government of Mali.

"The Republic of Mali is delighted with the designation of the People's Republic of China by the International Olympic Committee to host the Winter Olympic Games for 2022," Abdoulaye Maiga, the transitional government spokesperson, said in a statement.

"These 24th Winter Olympic Games take place in a difficult global health context marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences. Despite this situation, the Games strengthen friendship and fraternity between nations in accordance with the Olympic spirit, which should not leave room for any political instrumentalization."

Mali joins South Africa, which in December said it fully supports the position adopted by the International Olympic Committee that Olympic Games and that the participation of the athletes extend beyond politics.

Barry Hendricks, president of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee, said that delivering Team South Africa to the Olympics remains its core mandate.