Kenneth Hammond, a history professor at New Mexico State University in the United States, said the Olympic Games have a long tradition of bringing people from many countries together to compete and to share in the enjoyment of sports and in the spirit of friendly encounters.

"In the past, and sadly in the present, some forces in the world have indulged in political manipulations of the Olympics, but this should not detract from the admiration and respect due to the participants in these games and to the Chinese people for hosting them," Hammond said in an article published by People's Daily.

"The Olympics can and should be an inspiration to us all, athletes or otherwise, to join in seeking ways to cooperate and collaborate in making the world a better place, and in turning away from fear, hostility and greed in our relationships with one another," he said.