Bach made the comments in an Instagram chat with German javelin thrower Johannes Vetter.

He also suggested all athletes would be able to compete at Tokyo 2020, even if they come from a country with a high number of COVID-19 cases. 

"Athletes do not bear responsibility for the virus," Bach said. 

"If they test negative and follow the safety regulations, they should have the opportunity to participate. 

"I also do not expect countries to opt out. 

"All 206 National Olympic Committees affiliated with the IOC are determined and full of anticipation."

The Olympics have been postponed to July 23 to August 8, set to be followed by the Paralympics from August 24 to September 5, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Organisers have to plan for the Games against the backdrop of the global health crisis, with many countries now reintroducing lockdown measures to combat a second wave of the virus.   

A coronavirus countermeasures taskforce, formed of officials from the Japanese Government, Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo 2020, is assessing possible scenarios and measures that could allow the Games to run as scheduled in 2021. 

Discussion points during the latest meeting included whether International Federations will seek to establish rules on testing methods or whether uniform regulations will be implemented.

Policies, which are expected to be announced before the end of the year, are likely to include a mechanism for lifting the entry ban on foreign tourists, which is currently in place for 159 countries and regions.

Measures may include a health-checking app, mandatory testing and health insurance and exclusive health centres for tourists.

Organisers are now also considering an independent coronavirus testing and treatment facility within the Athletes' Village, Kyodo News reported.

Bach, who has remained confident Tokyo 2020 will take place next year, is expected to visit Japan next month to meet Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

Japan has reported more than 94,500 coronavirus cases and 1,685 deaths, but is deemed to have kept the virus under control compared with other countries.