A day after describing 2008 Olympic Games as "truly exceptional", the IOC on Monday honoured Beijing Games chief organiser Liu Qi with the Olympic Order in Gold.

The President of the Beijing 2008 Organising Committee (BOCOG), Liu, received the Olympic Order in Gold from International Olympic Committee's (IOC) President Jacques Rogge in recognition of all the hard work that went into hosting a memorable 16-day event in the Chinese capital.

"This was China's last gold medal of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games but perhaps the most important one because after seven years of intense preparations, BOCOG and China has offered to the world 16 days of exciting Olympic sports competitions.

"They were supported by smooth operations - a success which has permitted the athletes to achieve their best in optimal conditions," the IOC said in a press release.

In addition to the Olympic Order in Gold that was presented to Liu, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China, 14 members of the Beijing Organising Committee's senior leadership were also presented with the Olympic Order in Silver and a further 90 members of BOCOG received the Olympic rings.

"My colleagues and I are extremely honoured to be awarded the Olympic Order," said Liu. "It's not only a honour for the entire team of BOCOG, but also a recognition of the hard work that the Chinese people have done to host a successful games."

At the closing ceremony of the Beijing Games, Rogge thanked the people of China, BOCOG and the "wonderful"

volunteers for their hard work and support for the Games. From the athletes to the International Sports Federations via the media and Games sponsors, everyone has praised the high standard of the Beijing Games and the hospitality of the Chinese people.