UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has congratulated London on its victory in the Olympic bid, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday.

In a statement issued by the spokesman, Annan said he was delighted by the city's success, and had no doubt that this will be a magnificent international sporting event.

"Good for the world, good for the United Kingdom," Dujarric quoted the Secretary-General as saying.

"Obviously, others are disappointed today as this was a hotly contested decision," Annan said. "And I am sorry for the other cities that did not make it this time around."

However, he stressed "the intensity and drama surrounding the choice is a good omen for friendly international competition on and off the sports field."

Source: Xinhua