In Lausanne, Switzerland, Chinese contemporary artist Han Meilin has been AWARDED the Coubertin Prize, commending his efforts toward the development of the Olympics. Qi Jie has more.

Han Meilin has become the first Chinese in the field of art to receive a Coubertin Prize. The president of the International Olympic Committee said the reward honors the artist's dedication to promoting the Olympic spirit. 

Born in 1936, Han graduated from the China Academy of Fine Arts, the country's highest institution of Chinese fine arts. Tasked with creating a logo design for the Olympic bid, Han recreated the five Olympic rings using Chinese ink painting. He also incorporated Chinese knots. And the Mascot Fuwa also came from his hand. During the ceremony, Han dedicated his Olympic manuscripts -- hundreds of pages -- to the committee. 

HAN MEILIN ARTIST "The Olympics is not only about sports, it is also about politics and economics worldwide. The Olympics strike a nerve throughout the whole world, especially in cultural development. The Olympic spirit is about the dignity and capability of mankind. And it is important for driving the world forward."

Established in 1964, the Coubertin Prize is presented to those who have made great contributions to the Olympic games. They include athletes and people from other walks of life who have shown devotion in promoting the spirit of the Olympics. QIJIE, CGTN.