JOHANNESBURG - The so-called "diplomatic boycott" of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics was motivated by politics, according to Anil Sooklal, deputy director-general for Asia and Middle East at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa.

"It's unfortunate that some countries are speaking of diplomatic boycott of the games in China. It has nothing to do with sports. It has all (things) to do with politics," Sooklal has told Xinhua.

Sooklal expressed his disappointment over certain countries' decision to politicize international sports events.

However, Sooklal said, it's encouraging that over 15,000 athletes have committed to taking part in the event next year. He added he is confident that China will present a spectacular event next year.