The head of the Chinese Olympic delegation, Liu Peng, has praised the London Olympics as a great platform for sports, culture and friendship, at a closing news conference in the final hours of the London Games.

Liu Peng, head of Chinese Olympic Delegation, said, "The London Olympic Games is not only a successful sports event, it’s also a great platform of exchange for sport, culture and friendship. This is an excellent learning opportunity for the Chinese delegation."

With just a handful of events remaining, China is second on the medal table with 38 gold, 27 silver and 22 bronze. Liu commented on the case of the two Chinese badminton players disqualified for not using their best efforts, adding they had now been disciplined.

Liu expressed his support for young Chinese swimmer Ye Shiwen, who faced down media speculation of doping after two gold medal performances. Liu briefed the media on the condition of Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang, who’s undergone surgery on his Achilles tendon in London after crashing out in a heat of the 110-metre hurdles.

After the news conference, Liu disclosed that the flag bearer for China in the closing ceremony will be Xu Lijia, who won gold in the women’s laser radial sailing event on August 6th.