The European Union (EU) on Wednesday wished Britain good luck after London won the right to host the 2012 Olympics, said a statement issued by EU's executive commission.

EU culture commissioner Jan Figel hailed the decision in the statement that less than a year after the achievements of the Athens Games, another European capital has been designated "to deepen the close link between EU nations and the Olympic ideal."

"By enhancing the positive values of solidarity, fair-play and tolerance, sport can contribute to a 'citizen-friendly Europe'", the commissioner said.

London will become the first city to stage the Olympics for a third time after holding them in 1908 and 1948.

Source: Xinhua