Kuwait pledges autonomy for its Olympic committee

KUWAIT CITY (AP) - Kuwait has promised the IOC it will rid its sports institutions of political interference.

The Gulf country wants the two-year ban on its Olympic committee lifted, allowing its athletes to compete under the nation's flag at the London Games.

The International Olympic Committee suspended Kuwait in 2010. The IOC said in May Kuwaiti athletes could participate at the games, but would compete and march in the opening ceremony under the Olympic flag.

IOC spokeswoman Sandrine Tonge said Monday the suspension was "conditionally lifted'' after Kuwait ruler Sheik Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah pledged autonomy for the country's Olympic committee and promised new legislation for institutions governing sports.

Kuwait is sending 11 athletes to the Olympics, which start July 27.