Russian President Vladimir Putin has insisted gay and lesbian athletes have nothing to fear at next year’s Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
Mr Putin told Thomas Bach, the head of the International Olympic Committee, that gay athletes – and supporters – would feel at ease.
Russia has been criticised over a new law banning “homosexual propaganda” towards people under 18.
But a proposed boycott of the Games has gained little momentum.
There was some suggestion that gay visitors might face prosecution in Russia, but Moscow says this will not happen.
“We will do everything to make sure that athletes, fans and guests feel comfortable at the Olympic Games regardless of their ethnicity, race or sexual orientation. I would like to underline that,” Mr Putin told Mr Bach.
But gay rights groups have accused the IOC of not putting enough pressure on Russia, which has invested more in its Games than any previous Olympic host.
During his visit, Mr Bach made no public mention of the new law, focusing instead on Russia’s preparations for the Olympics.
