In an extensive interview, Rogge stressed that he is involved in private dialogue with Chinese leaders and insisted the human rights situation has improved since Beijing was awarded the Games seven years ago.
"The IOC is engaged in what I call a 'silent diplomacy' with Chinese authorities since day one of the preparations of the games," Rogge said. "We are discussing on a daily basis with Chinese authorities, including discussing these issues, while strictly respecting the sovereignty of China in its affairs."
In a separate announcement, the IOC said it expects the Torch Relay for the Beijing Games to go through Tibet as planned.
"The Olympic Torch is a powerful symbol which inspires people from all over the world to overcome their differences and come together in mutual understanding in anticipation of the games which it heralds," the IOC said Monday in a statement. "The IOC's expectation is that the 2008 Torch Relay will go ahead as planned."
Beijing organisers plan for the Torch to be carried to the top of Mount Everest, and closed its side of the mountain to climbers in a bid to prevent activists from disrupting the relay.
