Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia celebrates after the women's 5,000m final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Tirunesh Dibab won the gold.
Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia competes during the women's 5,000m final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Tirunesh Dibaba won the title.
Ethiopia's Tirunesh Dibaba won her second gold medal at the Beijing Olympics as she took the women's 5,000 meters gold medal at the Beijing Olympic Games here on Friday.
Dibaba, 23, clocked 15 minutes 41.40 seconds for her second gold medal at the Games, following her win in the 10,000m.
Turkey's Elvan Abeylegesse took the silver in 15:42.74 and another Ethiopian Meseret Defar, the defending champion, won the bronze in 15:44.12.
Source: Xinhua
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Russia wins women's 4X100m relay gold
Russia's Yulia Chermoshanskaya reacts after the women's 4x100m relay final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The Russian team won the title.
Russia's Evgeniya Polyakova sprints out during the women's 4x100m relay final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The Russian team won the title.
Russia's runners react after the women's 4x100m relay final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The Russian team won the title.
Russia scored a surprise win in thewomen's 4x100 meters relay at the Beijing Olympic Games here on Friday.
The Russian quartet, including Evgeniya Polyakova, Aleksandra Fedoriva, Yulia Gushchina and Yuliya Chermoshanskaya, clocked a season best of 42.31 seconds for the gold. Belgium took the silver in 42.54 seconds and Nigeria won the bronze in 43.04.
Pre-race favorite Jamaica did not finish the race.
Source: Xinhua
Russia's Evgeniya Polyakova sprints out during the women's 4x100m relay final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The Russian team won the title.
Russia's runners react after the women's 4x100m relay final at the National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, during Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The Russian team won the title.
Russia scored a surprise win in thewomen's 4x100 meters relay at the Beijing Olympic Games here on Friday.
The Russian quartet, including Evgeniya Polyakova, Aleksandra Fedoriva, Yulia Gushchina and Yuliya Chermoshanskaya, clocked a season best of 42.31 seconds for the gold. Belgium took the silver in 42.54 seconds and Nigeria won the bronze in 43.04.
Pre-race favorite Jamaica did not finish the race.
Source: Xinhua
Netherlands claim gold in Olympic women's hockey
Tang Chunling of China vies for the ball during women's gold medal match between China and the Netherlands at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games hockey event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The Netherlands won the match and grabbed the gold medal.
World champions the Netherlands snatched the Olympic women's hockey gold with a 2-0 win over China on Friday.
It is their first Olympic hockey title since the Los Angeles Games 24 years ago.
Hosts China also picked up their first ever medal at the Olympic Games.
The first half saw a 0-0 tie, in which the Dutch's four penalty corners were all saved by Chinese goalie Zhang Yimeng.
A penalty corner converted by Van As Naomj in the 51st minute broke the tie and gave the Netherlands 1-0 lead. Maartje Goderie added another in the 62nd and sealed their 2-0 win.
World No. 2 Argentina took the bronze with a 3-1 win over defending champions Germany.
Source: Xinhua
World champions the Netherlands snatched the Olympic women's hockey gold with a 2-0 win over China on Friday.
It is their first Olympic hockey title since the Los Angeles Games 24 years ago.
Hosts China also picked up their first ever medal at the Olympic Games.
The first half saw a 0-0 tie, in which the Dutch's four penalty corners were all saved by Chinese goalie Zhang Yimeng.
A penalty corner converted by Van As Naomj in the 51st minute broke the tie and gave the Netherlands 1-0 lead. Maartje Goderie added another in the 62nd and sealed their 2-0 win.
World No. 2 Argentina took the bronze with a 3-1 win over defending champions Germany.
Source: Xinhua
Bolt leads Jamaica to 4x100m relay gold with new world records
Two sprint gold medals winner Usain Bolt led Jamaica to the men's 4x100 meters win with a new world record at the Beijing Olympic Games on Friday.
Bolt, who broke both the 100m and 200m world records en route to the gold medals, ran the third leg and gave the Jamaicans a big lead before handing the baton to Asafa Powell, the former world 100m record holder. Powell easily anchored the race in 37.10 seconds, breaking the previous mark of 37.40 set by the United States in the 1992 Olympic Games.
Trinidad and Tobago took the silver in 38.06 seconds and Japan won the bronze in 38.15.
Source: Xinhua
Bolt, who broke both the 100m and 200m world records en route to the gold medals, ran the third leg and gave the Jamaicans a big lead before handing the baton to Asafa Powell, the former world 100m record holder. Powell easily anchored the race in 37.10 seconds, breaking the previous mark of 37.40 set by the United States in the 1992 Olympic Games.
Trinidad and Tobago took the silver in 38.06 seconds and Japan won the bronze in 38.15.
Source: Xinhua
Argentina wins men's soccer gold at Beijing Olympics
Sergio Aguero of Argentina dribbles during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008.
Olubayo Adefemi of Nigeria vies for the ball with Angel Di Maria of Argentina during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008.
Angel Di Maria of Argentina makes a goal during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008.
Fernando Gago of Argentina vies for the ball with Ebenezer Ajilore of Nigeria during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Argentina won the match and claimed the title of the event.
Olubayo Adefemi of Nigeria vies for the ball with Angel Di Maria of Argentina during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008.
Angel Di Maria of Argentina makes a goal during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008.
Fernando Gago of Argentina vies for the ball with Ebenezer Ajilore of Nigeria during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Argentina won the match and claimed the title of the event.
Angel flies to help Argentina defend Olympic title
Angel Di Maria of Argentina makes a goal during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008.
Defending champion Argentina repeated its victory in the final of men's soccer at Beijing Olympics on Saturday, as striker Angel Di Maria scored the only goal to help the team edge Nigeria to seal the title.
Watched by a crowd of 89,102, Di Maria, already having playing an answer man to matches in group stage, collected a through ball from Lionel Messi and calmly finished the clear shot on the 58th minute, claiming their two consecutive wins at Olympic men's soccer final as they were already crowned four years ago in Athens.
Messi and his Barcelona teammate Sergio Aguero were not given many chances to score as the Nigerian defenders tried hard to manmark the duo, which, however, also left much space for Di Maria to come up and break Nigeria's defense line.
Luciano Monzon of Argentina heads the ball during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Argentina beat Nigeria 1-0 and claimed the title in this event.
Messi earned himself a chance at the 77th minute when he stole the ball from Nigerian defender. Boosting up in speed, Messi struck his trademark left-footed shot which was eventually blocked away by Nigerian central defender Onyekachi Apam.
The Nigerians had quite a number of chances to even the score as Argentina gave up the middlefield after taking the lead. Striker Victor Obinna almost scored on 63rd minute from a right pass, but his shot was blocked by goalkeeper Sergio Romero with his body.
Nigeria's best chance came in a sudden flank attack when midfielder Ever Banega delivered a beautiful pass from the right side, but two of the Nigerian strikers, Peter Odemwingie and Emmanuel Ekpo, both charged into the area, failed to catch.
Ezequiel Garay of Argentina vies for the ball during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Argentina beat Nigeria 1-0 and claimed the title in this event.
Source: Xinhua
Defending champion Argentina repeated its victory in the final of men's soccer at Beijing Olympics on Saturday, as striker Angel Di Maria scored the only goal to help the team edge Nigeria to seal the title.
Watched by a crowd of 89,102, Di Maria, already having playing an answer man to matches in group stage, collected a through ball from Lionel Messi and calmly finished the clear shot on the 58th minute, claiming their two consecutive wins at Olympic men's soccer final as they were already crowned four years ago in Athens.
Messi and his Barcelona teammate Sergio Aguero were not given many chances to score as the Nigerian defenders tried hard to manmark the duo, which, however, also left much space for Di Maria to come up and break Nigeria's defense line.
Luciano Monzon of Argentina heads the ball during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Argentina beat Nigeria 1-0 and claimed the title in this event.
Messi earned himself a chance at the 77th minute when he stole the ball from Nigerian defender. Boosting up in speed, Messi struck his trademark left-footed shot which was eventually blocked away by Nigerian central defender Onyekachi Apam.
The Nigerians had quite a number of chances to even the score as Argentina gave up the middlefield after taking the lead. Striker Victor Obinna almost scored on 63rd minute from a right pass, but his shot was blocked by goalkeeper Sergio Romero with his body.
Nigeria's best chance came in a sudden flank attack when midfielder Ever Banega delivered a beautiful pass from the right side, but two of the Nigerian strikers, Peter Odemwingie and Emmanuel Ekpo, both charged into the area, failed to catch.
Ezequiel Garay of Argentina vies for the ball during the men's gold match of football event between Nigeria and Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Argentina beat Nigeria 1-0 and claimed the title in this event.
Source: Xinhua
Bronze medal restores confidence of China's women volleyballers
Players of China celebrate their victory over Cuba after Women's Bronze Medal Match of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games volleyball event in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. China beat Cuba 3-1 and grabbed the bronze.
Just as their favorite song - "Sunshine Comes after Rainstorm" - goes, a smiling Chinese team rallied to remedy their semifinal loss with a consoling bronze medal at the Olympic women's volleyball on Saturday.
The three-time Olympic champion Cuba finished their Beijing journey with a disappointing fourth place.
Inspired by the deafening cheers of more than 14,000 Chinese fans, the host beat Cuba 25-16, 21-25, 25-13 and 25-20 in the pride-saving match.
Players of China celebrate their victory over Cuba after Women's Bronze Medal Match of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games volleyball event in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. China beat Cuba 3-1 and grabbed the bronze.
"They were so hopeless that I believed they gave up at the third set," said a home fan Yi Sheng, referring to the disappointing performances of the Chinese women in the semifinal against Brazil on Thursday. The defending champion lost surprisingly in straight sets and they only took 14 points in the third set.
"But today, I saw perseverance on them again, the most valuable quality which I think helped them win the Athens gold and will help to overcome the adversities to be stronger in the future, " the 28-year-old sales manager from a Beijing-based oil company told Xinhua after the match.
"In this aspect, the bronze medal means much more than the gold medal," he said.
Due to a slow start, China opened the match with a dismal 2-6, when the ace spikers Wang Yimei and captain Feng Kun scored five points to help the host take over lead 7-6. Though the Cubans followed up closely, the Chinese managed to keep a slight advantage to 14-13.
China launched a stunning 8-2 run to enlarge the gap to 22-15. Wang's service error helped Cuba pull back one point, but her two ace serves helped China take the set 25-16.
The Cuban spikers came back to life in the second set to establish an early led 9-4 with quick spikes of Nancy Carrillo and Yanelis Santos. China strived to catch up before a 17-all, when Carrillo and another high jumper Rosir Calderon broke the tie and crushed China's attempts to bounce back with attacks from the left flank and the middle court, 24-21 in favor of Cuba.
Veteran captain Yumilka Ruiz sealed the set 25-21 with an unanswered spike.
China staged a brilliant attacking wave from the start of the following set with a 8-4 lead and extended the winning momentum to take the set 25-13.
China took an early lead 10-5 and 15-10 in the fourth set, when Cuba surged back 20-21 with the astonishing performance of its wing hitter Calderon. But that was the furthest they could go. China clinched the meaning victory 25-20 with a spike of middle blocker Zhao Ruirui.
Later on Saturday night, Brazil, who sailed into final without losing a single set, will fight for their first-ever Olympic gold against the United States. The latter, led by China-born head coach Lang Ping, made their historic return to the gold medal match in 24 years after toppling Cuba 3-0.
Source: Xinhua
Just as their favorite song - "Sunshine Comes after Rainstorm" - goes, a smiling Chinese team rallied to remedy their semifinal loss with a consoling bronze medal at the Olympic women's volleyball on Saturday.
The three-time Olympic champion Cuba finished their Beijing journey with a disappointing fourth place.
Inspired by the deafening cheers of more than 14,000 Chinese fans, the host beat Cuba 25-16, 21-25, 25-13 and 25-20 in the pride-saving match.
Players of China celebrate their victory over Cuba after Women's Bronze Medal Match of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games volleyball event in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. China beat Cuba 3-1 and grabbed the bronze.
"They were so hopeless that I believed they gave up at the third set," said a home fan Yi Sheng, referring to the disappointing performances of the Chinese women in the semifinal against Brazil on Thursday. The defending champion lost surprisingly in straight sets and they only took 14 points in the third set.
"But today, I saw perseverance on them again, the most valuable quality which I think helped them win the Athens gold and will help to overcome the adversities to be stronger in the future, " the 28-year-old sales manager from a Beijing-based oil company told Xinhua after the match.
"In this aspect, the bronze medal means much more than the gold medal," he said.
Due to a slow start, China opened the match with a dismal 2-6, when the ace spikers Wang Yimei and captain Feng Kun scored five points to help the host take over lead 7-6. Though the Cubans followed up closely, the Chinese managed to keep a slight advantage to 14-13.
China launched a stunning 8-2 run to enlarge the gap to 22-15. Wang's service error helped Cuba pull back one point, but her two ace serves helped China take the set 25-16.
The Cuban spikers came back to life in the second set to establish an early led 9-4 with quick spikes of Nancy Carrillo and Yanelis Santos. China strived to catch up before a 17-all, when Carrillo and another high jumper Rosir Calderon broke the tie and crushed China's attempts to bounce back with attacks from the left flank and the middle court, 24-21 in favor of Cuba.
Veteran captain Yumilka Ruiz sealed the set 25-21 with an unanswered spike.
China staged a brilliant attacking wave from the start of the following set with a 8-4 lead and extended the winning momentum to take the set 25-13.
China took an early lead 10-5 and 15-10 in the fourth set, when Cuba surged back 20-21 with the astonishing performance of its wing hitter Calderon. But that was the furthest they could go. China clinched the meaning victory 25-20 with a spike of middle blocker Zhao Ruirui.
Later on Saturday night, Brazil, who sailed into final without losing a single set, will fight for their first-ever Olympic gold against the United States. The latter, led by China-born head coach Lang Ping, made their historic return to the gold medal match in 24 years after toppling Cuba 3-0.
Source: Xinhua
Russia wins synchronized swimming team gold
The death toll from the May 12 earthquake in Sichuan Province and its neighboring region increased by one from Monday's figure to reach 69,226 as of Thursday noon, according to a statement released by the State Council Information Office.
The number of people listed as missing and injured remained unchanged and stood at 17,923 and 374,643 respectively.
As of Thursday noon, a total of 1,486,405 survivors had been relocated.
Among the 96,544 who had been hospitalized for injuries, 92,686have been discharged, the statement said.
Government spending on relief and reconstruction had exceeded 66.92 billion yuan , including 59.74 billion yuan from the central budget and 7.17 billion yuan from the local budget.
According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, domestic and foreign donations had reached 59.28 billion yuan in cash and goods by Thursday noon. Of this, 24.15 billion yuan had been forwarded to quake-hit areas.
About 1.58 million tents, 4.87 million quilts, 14.1 million garments, 3.16 million tonnes of fuel and 6.76 million tonnes of coal had been sent to the quake-hit areas, it said.
As of Wednesday, relief workers had built 658,400 temporary houses and another 2,600 were being installed.
Between Monday noon and Thursday noon, 611 aftershocks at or below magnitude 3.9 were monitored in the quake zone, while no aftershock at or above 4.0 magnitude were reported, according to the China Earthquake Administration. A total of 25,270 aftershocks had been detected since May 12.
The statement said 392,056 tonnes of grain and 9,435 tonnes of edible oil have been allocated to the quake zones from central reserves as of Wednesday. It also said that 127,937 of the 138,960businesses damaged had reopened.
And 32,398 km of the 37,028 km ruptured telecommunication optical cable had been restored.
As of Thursday noon, 175,858 survivors had found jobs outside of the area, while another 671,774 were employed in their home towns.
Source: Xinhua
The number of people listed as missing and injured remained unchanged and stood at 17,923 and 374,643 respectively.
As of Thursday noon, a total of 1,486,405 survivors had been relocated.
Among the 96,544 who had been hospitalized for injuries, 92,686have been discharged, the statement said.
Government spending on relief and reconstruction had exceeded 66.92 billion yuan , including 59.74 billion yuan from the central budget and 7.17 billion yuan from the local budget.
According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, domestic and foreign donations had reached 59.28 billion yuan in cash and goods by Thursday noon. Of this, 24.15 billion yuan had been forwarded to quake-hit areas.
About 1.58 million tents, 4.87 million quilts, 14.1 million garments, 3.16 million tonnes of fuel and 6.76 million tonnes of coal had been sent to the quake-hit areas, it said.
As of Wednesday, relief workers had built 658,400 temporary houses and another 2,600 were being installed.
Between Monday noon and Thursday noon, 611 aftershocks at or below magnitude 3.9 were monitored in the quake zone, while no aftershock at or above 4.0 magnitude were reported, according to the China Earthquake Administration. A total of 25,270 aftershocks had been detected since May 12.
The statement said 392,056 tonnes of grain and 9,435 tonnes of edible oil have been allocated to the quake zones from central reserves as of Wednesday. It also said that 127,937 of the 138,960businesses damaged had reopened.
And 32,398 km of the 37,028 km ruptured telecommunication optical cable had been restored.
As of Thursday noon, 175,858 survivors had found jobs outside of the area, while another 671,774 were employed in their home towns.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Zhang Yining wins Olympic table tennis singles gold
Zhang Yining of China returns the ball during the women's singles gold medal match of Beijing Olympic Games table tennis event against her compatriot Wang Nan in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Zhang Yining won the match and grabbed the gold medal.
Chinese Zhang Yining beat teammate Wang Nan 4-2 to win the women's singles gold medal at the Olympic Games on Friday.
Earlier, Chinese Guo Yue downed Singapore's Li Jia Wei to claim the bronze.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Zhang Yining beat teammate Wang Nan 4-2 to win the women's singles gold medal at the Olympic Games on Friday.
Earlier, Chinese Guo Yue downed Singapore's Li Jia Wei to claim the bronze.
Source: Xinhua
Belarus wins Olympic gold in men's kayak four 1,000m
Kayak paddlers of Belarus compete in the Kayak four 1000m men final of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games Canoe/Kayak Flatwater event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The team of Belarus clinched the gold medal in this event with a time of 2:55.714.
Belarus claimed the Olympic gold medal in the men's kayak four 1,000 meters in the Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park on Friday.
The team finished in two minutes, 55.714 seconds, 0.879 seconds ahead of Athens bronze medalists Slovakia. Germany, silver medalists in Athens, took bronze in 2:56.593.
It was Belarus' second gold on the first day of the canoeing flatwater finals, a dozen minutes after their compatriots came from behind to win the men's canoe double 1,000 meters race.
The Belarus crew were in second place by the 500 meters, but they came through in the third 250 meters and maintain the lead to the finish line.
"Today was a pleasant surprise for all four of us," Belarus' Raman Piatrushenka said.
"We've been away from home for a long time and we even turned our mobile phones off. We wouldn't say the gods or stars were smiling on us, we just did our best to get the medal.
"I feel very bad and very tired. We did the 1,000m very fast and did everything we could," Slovakia's Richard Riszdorfer said. "Most of the time we were leading, but we couldn't see how far Belarus were from us."
Hungary, who won the gold medals in Sydney and Athens, missed out on a medal with a fifth finish. China, silver medalists in a pre-Games World Cup race, came in seventh place.
Kayak paddlers of Belarus celebrate after winning the Kayak four 1000m men final of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games Canoe/Kayak Flatwater event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The team of Belarus clinched the gold medal in this event with a time of 2:55.714.
Source: Xinhua
Belarus claimed the Olympic gold medal in the men's kayak four 1,000 meters in the Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park on Friday.
The team finished in two minutes, 55.714 seconds, 0.879 seconds ahead of Athens bronze medalists Slovakia. Germany, silver medalists in Athens, took bronze in 2:56.593.
It was Belarus' second gold on the first day of the canoeing flatwater finals, a dozen minutes after their compatriots came from behind to win the men's canoe double 1,000 meters race.
The Belarus crew were in second place by the 500 meters, but they came through in the third 250 meters and maintain the lead to the finish line.
"Today was a pleasant surprise for all four of us," Belarus' Raman Piatrushenka said.
"We've been away from home for a long time and we even turned our mobile phones off. We wouldn't say the gods or stars were smiling on us, we just did our best to get the medal.
"I feel very bad and very tired. We did the 1,000m very fast and did everything we could," Slovakia's Richard Riszdorfer said. "Most of the time we were leading, but we couldn't see how far Belarus were from us."
Hungary, who won the gold medals in Sydney and Athens, missed out on a medal with a fifth finish. China, silver medalists in a pre-Games World Cup race, came in seventh place.
Kayak paddlers of Belarus celebrate after winning the Kayak four 1000m men final of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games Canoe/Kayak Flatwater event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. The team of Belarus clinched the gold medal in this event with a time of 2:55.714.
Source: Xinhua
"Olympic Pandas" bear up well in Beijing; likely to stay until year-end
Eight pandas who were flown to Beijing in May to add cheer to the Olympics are doing well and will probably stay in the capital until year-end, which is when their quake-damaged habitat in Sichuan Province is likely to be rebuilt.
"Olympic pandas" play together at the Beijing Zoo in Beijing, capital of China, July 29, 2008. The eight "Olympic pandas", nominated by netizens to add cheers to the Beijing Olympic Games, have witnessed more than one million visitors since their arrival in Beijing from the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve in southwest China's Sichuan Province on June 5.
Thursday's Legal Affairs Evening News quoted Zhang Jinguo, deputy chief of the Beijing Zoo, as saying that the bears, aged one to two, had all put on 1.5 kg to 2 kg during their stay in the zoo.
"They are fully adapted to the climate and life here in Beijing," said Zhang, who added that rebuilding their home at the Wolong base was another reason they had to stay. They were originally supposed to go home in October.
The cubs are in a newly expanded glass enclosure, where wooden "trees," a mural and swimming pools create a homey environment.
The pandas live in three pens held at a constant temperature, similar to their natural habitat. They were expected to attract 6 million domestic and foreign tourists during their six-month stay in the capital.
They were selected from among 16 candidates at the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center in Wolong Town, only 30 km from the epicenter of the devastating May 12 earthquake.
At their newfound home, they usually get out of bed at 7 a.m. and prowl their enclosure until about 6 p.m.
According to Zhang, in their first days in Beijing, the cubs had a poor appetite and could only chow down 2 kg to 3 kg of bamboo a day.
"Now their appetite has become so good that they eat twice as much and they're putting on weight."
The pandas also eat carrots, apples and milk, which is said to produce the fine sheen of their fur. They also got a weekly shampoo ahead of the Olympics.
Except for Fengyi, the youngest of the eight, who suffered from a minor case of worms upon arrival, the animals have been healthy.
The earthquake caused severe damage to the Wolong base. Five staff were killed, as was one captive panda. Two pandas were injured and six went missing, five of which were eventually found.
A donation drive to rebuild the damaged habitat started in early June.
"The cubs won't return before workers complete the rebuilding, which for sure can't be done in October," said Zhang.
Source: Xinhua
"Olympic pandas" play together at the Beijing Zoo in Beijing, capital of China, July 29, 2008. The eight "Olympic pandas", nominated by netizens to add cheers to the Beijing Olympic Games, have witnessed more than one million visitors since their arrival in Beijing from the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve in southwest China's Sichuan Province on June 5.
Thursday's Legal Affairs Evening News quoted Zhang Jinguo, deputy chief of the Beijing Zoo, as saying that the bears, aged one to two, had all put on 1.5 kg to 2 kg during their stay in the zoo.
"They are fully adapted to the climate and life here in Beijing," said Zhang, who added that rebuilding their home at the Wolong base was another reason they had to stay. They were originally supposed to go home in October.
The cubs are in a newly expanded glass enclosure, where wooden "trees," a mural and swimming pools create a homey environment.
The pandas live in three pens held at a constant temperature, similar to their natural habitat. They were expected to attract 6 million domestic and foreign tourists during their six-month stay in the capital.
They were selected from among 16 candidates at the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center in Wolong Town, only 30 km from the epicenter of the devastating May 12 earthquake.
At their newfound home, they usually get out of bed at 7 a.m. and prowl their enclosure until about 6 p.m.
According to Zhang, in their first days in Beijing, the cubs had a poor appetite and could only chow down 2 kg to 3 kg of bamboo a day.
"Now their appetite has become so good that they eat twice as much and they're putting on weight."
The pandas also eat carrots, apples and milk, which is said to produce the fine sheen of their fur. They also got a weekly shampoo ahead of the Olympics.
Except for Fengyi, the youngest of the eight, who suffered from a minor case of worms upon arrival, the animals have been healthy.
The earthquake caused severe damage to the Wolong base. Five staff were killed, as was one captive panda. Two pandas were injured and six went missing, five of which were eventually found.
A donation drive to rebuild the damaged habitat started in early June.
"The cubs won't return before workers complete the rebuilding, which for sure can't be done in October," said Zhang.
Source: Xinhua
Argentina win Olympic women's hockey bronze
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
This was Argentina's third Olympic hokcey medal following a silver in 2000 and a bronze in 2004.
The third-ranked Germany, the surprise winner of Athens Games, failed to make their second appearance on the Olympic podium.
Argentina took a 2-0 lead at halftime with a penalty corner from Rosario Luchetti in the 11th minute and a field goal from Carla Rebecchi in the 22nd.
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
Anke Kuehn narrowed the gap for Germany in the 45th with a field goal which was finally ruled valid by video umpire. However, Noel Barrionuevo once agian widened the margin to 3-1 in the 63rd minute and sealed the win.
Germany got three chances for penalty corner in the second half but they failed to convert any of them.
Argentine coach Gabriel Minadeo said it was a tough game for both sides. "We find spaces to take an early 2-0 lead. Germany played well in the second half, but we hold on the board 3-1."
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
"Hockey is important and popular in Argentina. I hope the medal will encourage more boys and girls to play hockey," Gabriel noted, adding that of course a gold medal was the best way to finish the tournament.
German coach Michael Behrmann was very disappointed about the result. "Australia did better in the first half, and we try to make up for the second, but two goals are hard to catch up," he said.
Both the coaches predicted that the Dutch would win the gold medal over China in the later match. "The Dutch are extremely strong and experienced."
Source: Xinhua
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
This was Argentina's third Olympic hokcey medal following a silver in 2000 and a bronze in 2004.
The third-ranked Germany, the surprise winner of Athens Games, failed to make their second appearance on the Olympic podium.
Argentina took a 2-0 lead at halftime with a penalty corner from Rosario Luchetti in the 11th minute and a field goal from Carla Rebecchi in the 22nd.
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
Anke Kuehn narrowed the gap for Germany in the 45th with a field goal which was finally ruled valid by video umpire. However, Noel Barrionuevo once agian widened the margin to 3-1 in the 63rd minute and sealed the win.
Germany got three chances for penalty corner in the second half but they failed to convert any of them.
Argentine coach Gabriel Minadeo said it was a tough game for both sides. "We find spaces to take an early 2-0 lead. Germany played well in the second half, but we hold on the board 3-1."
World No. 2 Argentina won the bronze medal in the Olympic women's hockey tournament in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating defending champions Germany 3-1.
"Hockey is important and popular in Argentina. I hope the medal will encourage more boys and girls to play hockey," Gabriel noted, adding that of course a gold medal was the best way to finish the tournament.
German coach Michael Behrmann was very disappointed about the result. "Australia did better in the first half, and we try to make up for the second, but two goals are hard to catch up," he said.
Both the coaches predicted that the Dutch would win the gold medal over China in the later match. "The Dutch are extremely strong and experienced."
Source: Xinhua
China's Olympic medal hopeful Zou enters boxing final
China's medal hope and world boxing champion of light flyweight Zou Shiming advanced into the final at the Beijing Olympic Games by beating Paddy Barnes from Ireland 15-0 here on Friday.
Zou Shiming of China poses during Men's light fly semifinal 1 at the Beijing Olympic Games boxing event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Zou Shiming won the match over Paddy Barnes of Ireland.
Zou initiated attacks in the first round and won two points, and then made it at 8-0 in the second round, successfully dodging all the punches by Barnes. Zou performed a perfect defense in the third and fourth rounds, leaving no chance for his rival.
"I am persistent today as I always did," said Zou. "I was close to the Olympic gold four years ago, and this time I will try my best to get it."
Zou Shiming of China fights with Paddy Barnes of Ireland during Men's light fly semifinal 1 at the Beijing Olympic Games boxing event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Zou Shiming won the match.
Zou attributed the overwhelming victory to his strategy on the ring, which Zhang Chuanliang, head coach of the Chinese boxing team, said was defense-attack tactics.
Barnes said after the competition against Zou "he beat me with speed. I thought I was doing well but he's just a great fighter, too fast."
"He tried to get him, tried to hit, tried to block, but he couldn't do anything," said Barners' coach Billy Walsh.
Barnes was in the fifth position in the World Championships last year.
Source: Xinhua
Zou Shiming of China poses during Men's light fly semifinal 1 at the Beijing Olympic Games boxing event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Zou Shiming won the match over Paddy Barnes of Ireland.
Zou initiated attacks in the first round and won two points, and then made it at 8-0 in the second round, successfully dodging all the punches by Barnes. Zou performed a perfect defense in the third and fourth rounds, leaving no chance for his rival.
"I am persistent today as I always did," said Zou. "I was close to the Olympic gold four years ago, and this time I will try my best to get it."
Zou Shiming of China fights with Paddy Barnes of Ireland during Men's light fly semifinal 1 at the Beijing Olympic Games boxing event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Zou Shiming won the match.
Zou attributed the overwhelming victory to his strategy on the ring, which Zhang Chuanliang, head coach of the Chinese boxing team, said was defense-attack tactics.
Barnes said after the competition against Zou "he beat me with speed. I thought I was doing well but he's just a great fighter, too fast."
"He tried to get him, tried to hit, tried to block, but he couldn't do anything," said Barners' coach Billy Walsh.
Barnes was in the fifth position in the World Championships last year.
Source: Xinhua
World champion Guo makes do with Olympic bronze
China's Guo Yue won a bronze medal in the Olympic women's singles table tennis competition in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2.
The color of the medal is a big disappointment for the reigning world champion who has rarely finished lower than second in international singles tournaments in the last two years.
China's Guo Yue won a bronze medal in the Olympic women's singles table tennis competition in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2.
Guo failed to reach the final because of her loss to China's "Big Sister" Wang Nan, who is going to retire and determined to win as much as possible at her last Olympic Games.
But Guo won the bronze medal contest 11-6, 14-12, 9-11, 7-11, 11-3, 11-4, shattering Li's hope of winning a second medal at the Beijing Olympics.
China's Guo Yue won a bronze medal in the Olympic women's singles table tennis competition in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2.
The Beijing-born Li put up a brave fight until her semifinal loss to former schoolmate Zhang Yining, the world's top-ranked player and defending gold medalist.
Li and two other former Chinese won a team silver, which is the first Olympic medal for Singapore in 48 years.
"It's an achievement for me to finish in the top four in the singles event in Beijing, with all the other three being Chinese players," she said.
Li finished fourth in the Athens singles competition and failed to reach the last eight in the doubles.
Source: Xinhua
The color of the medal is a big disappointment for the reigning world champion who has rarely finished lower than second in international singles tournaments in the last two years.
China's Guo Yue won a bronze medal in the Olympic women's singles table tennis competition in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2.
Guo failed to reach the final because of her loss to China's "Big Sister" Wang Nan, who is going to retire and determined to win as much as possible at her last Olympic Games.
But Guo won the bronze medal contest 11-6, 14-12, 9-11, 7-11, 11-3, 11-4, shattering Li's hope of winning a second medal at the Beijing Olympics.
China's Guo Yue won a bronze medal in the Olympic women's singles table tennis competition in Beijing on Aug. 22, beating Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2.
The Beijing-born Li put up a brave fight until her semifinal loss to former schoolmate Zhang Yining, the world's top-ranked player and defending gold medalist.
Li and two other former Chinese won a team silver, which is the first Olympic medal for Singapore in 48 years.
"It's an achievement for me to finish in the top four in the singles event in Beijing, with all the other three being Chinese players," she said.
Li finished fourth in the Athens singles competition and failed to reach the last eight in the doubles.
Source: Xinhua
S Korea's Hwang claims title in women's 67kg class taetwondo
Karine Sergerie of Canada fights with Hwang Kyungseon of South Kroea during the women's 67kg gold medal match at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games taekwondo event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Hwang Kyungseon won the match and gained the gold medal.
South Korea's Hwang Kyung-seon won the women's 67kg class taekwondo event at the Beijing Olympics on Friday, beating Karine Sergerie of Canada 2-1.
It's the third gold South Korean taekwondo players have clinched in Beijing.
Sergerie took the lead in round 1 while Hwang, adopting defensive tactics, scored her first point in round 2. The two became more aggressive in the third round and both made a lot of attacks, but only Hwang managed to score when there were 20 seconds left and locked the gold.
The bronze was shared by Gwladys Patience Epangue of France, and Sandra Saric of Croatia.
Source: Xinhua
South Korea's Hwang Kyung-seon won the women's 67kg class taekwondo event at the Beijing Olympics on Friday, beating Karine Sergerie of Canada 2-1.
It's the third gold South Korean taekwondo players have clinched in Beijing.
Sergerie took the lead in round 1 while Hwang, adopting defensive tactics, scored her first point in round 2. The two became more aggressive in the third round and both made a lot of attacks, but only Hwang managed to score when there were 20 seconds left and locked the gold.
The bronze was shared by Gwladys Patience Epangue of France, and Sandra Saric of Croatia.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Guo wins table tennis bronze
Guo Yue of China celebrates a point during the women's singles bronze medal match of Beijing Olympic Games table tennis event against Li Jia Wei of Singapore in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Guo won the match 4-2 and grabbed the bronze medal.
Chinese Guo Yue beat Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2 to win the women's singles bronze medal at the Olympic table tennis tournament on Friday.
Wang Nan, 2000 Olympic singles champion, will take on defending champion Zhang Yining in the all-Chinese final late Friday night.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Guo Yue beat Singapore's Li Jia Wei 4-2 to win the women's singles bronze medal at the Olympic table tennis tournament on Friday.
Wang Nan, 2000 Olympic singles champion, will take on defending champion Zhang Yining in the all-Chinese final late Friday night.
Source: Xinhua
Iranian veteran Hadi Saei wins men's 80kg class taekwondo event
Mauro Sarmiento of Italy fights with Hadi Saei of Iran during the men's 80kg gold medal match at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games taekwondo event in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Hadi Saei won the match and gained the gold medal.
Iranian taekwondo player Hadi Saei clinched his second Olympic taekwondo gold on Friday, beating Mauro Sarmiento of Italy 6-4 in the men's 80kg category.
Sarmiento dominated the first round with a 4-2 by a series of attacks, inluding an axe kick to Saei's head. However, 32-year-old Saei, who won the 68kg class at Athens Games, remained clear-minded. He just moved and waited.
When the opponent made mistakes during continuous attacks, Saei successfully threw two roundhouse kicks to Sarmiento's left side and drew the match into a 4-4 tie. He attcked first in round 3, scored his fifth and sixth point.
Sarmiento raised Saei's hand to congratulate the veteran.
China's Zhu Guo won the bronze after an intense repechage match with British player Aaron Cook, beating Cook 4-1 to become the first Chinese male taekwondo player to win a medal at Olympics.
Zhu said his South Korean coach helped him a lot.
America's legendary Steven Lopez, two-time Olympic gold medalist and four-time world champion, failed to extend his glory as he lost the quarterfinals to Sarmiento 1-2. He finally got bronze through the repechage.
Source: Xinhua
Iranian taekwondo player Hadi Saei clinched his second Olympic taekwondo gold on Friday, beating Mauro Sarmiento of Italy 6-4 in the men's 80kg category.
Sarmiento dominated the first round with a 4-2 by a series of attacks, inluding an axe kick to Saei's head. However, 32-year-old Saei, who won the 68kg class at Athens Games, remained clear-minded. He just moved and waited.
When the opponent made mistakes during continuous attacks, Saei successfully threw two roundhouse kicks to Sarmiento's left side and drew the match into a 4-4 tie. He attcked first in round 3, scored his fifth and sixth point.
Sarmiento raised Saei's hand to congratulate the veteran.
China's Zhu Guo won the bronze after an intense repechage match with British player Aaron Cook, beating Cook 4-1 to become the first Chinese male taekwondo player to win a medal at Olympics.
Zhu said his South Korean coach helped him a lot.
America's legendary Steven Lopez, two-time Olympic gold medalist and four-time world champion, failed to extend his glory as he lost the quarterfinals to Sarmiento 1-2. He finally got bronze through the repechage.
Source: Xinhua
Beijing Olympics bronze medal priceless to Israel
The state of Israel was galvanized when its windsurfer Shahar Zubari raised his hands triumphantly after being awarded an Olympic bronze medal on Wednesday by Israeli International Olympic Committee member Alex Gilady.
Zubari, who was considered one of the Israeli Olympic delegation's best hopes for a medal, won the bronze medal of the men's RS:X at the Beijing Olympic Sailing Regatta, Israel's first medal at Beijing Olympics.
"We are very happy about Zubari's medal and proud of him," Michal Shahaf, spokesperson of the Olympic Committee of Israel , who is currently in Beijing, told Xinhua Friday in a telephone interview, adding that it is almost certain that this will be the only medal Israeli Olympic delegation wins at Beijing Olympics.
Before Zubari's medal, some prominent Israeli athletes, who had been pinned much hope on getting a medal, failed to make it, which exerted a lot of pressure on the young windsurfer.
"It was very difficult work. I'm very happy with the accomplishment," Zubari told Israel's Channel 1 after winning the medal, adding that there was a lot of support from Israel.
As for the 21-year-old windsurfer, who will turn 22 on Sept. 1, the medal is doubtlessly a priceless birthday present. In addition, it is also a splendid gift to his country, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.
The Jewish state also relished the precious gain. Israeli President Shimon Peres and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert both called Wednesday to congratulate Zubari on his achievement.
"You've made us so happy. I've been following you all of these ten days. I was constantly impressed by your cool demeanor, your level headedness, and your self-confidence - your feeling that you conveyed to us that you will end up bringing a medal," Olmert was quoted by local media as saying.
"You have no idea how exciting it is," the prime minister continued. "I'm looking at you now through the TV and see you holding the flag. There are lots of tears of joy now in the eyes of Israelis. Your future is ahead of you."
Zubari's family was ecstatic at Zubari's victory.
"It's a great joy. Every member of the family except for Zubari was here at home watching the race. He was on a roll when he began and he took it all the way," Zubari's mother told Israel Radio from her home in Eilat, a city in southern Israel.
This is Israel's seventh Olympic medal, and Zubari is the sixth Olympic medalist in Israeli history. In the past, the Jewish state won six Olympic medals, including a gold, a silver and four bronze medals.
Thanks to Zubari's medal, the Israeli Olympic delegation avoided the awkwardness of coming back home empty-handed. However, Shahaf told Xinhua that "we are somewhat disappointed, because we have been expecting better results."
Despite that, Secretary General of OCI Efraim Zinger and the director of Israel's Elite Sport Department, Gili Lostig, told local media Thursday that when looking at the overall picture, the delegation performed as expected at Beijing Olympics.
"The most important fact is that for the fifth consecutive Olympics we have maintained our place in the very prestigious club of medal winning nations," Zinger said.
It may have been much tougher this time due to the improvement of the Asian athletes, and especially China, but Israel once more met this goal, added the secretary general.
Lostig noted that some 23 of the 43 Israeli athletes participating in Beijing Olympics are under 23-years-old, calling it an amazing fact.
"This means we have a young group of sportsmen which is replacing the older generation and this group will blossom in London 2012 ," said Lostig.
Source: Xinhua
Zubari, who was considered one of the Israeli Olympic delegation's best hopes for a medal, won the bronze medal of the men's RS:X at the Beijing Olympic Sailing Regatta, Israel's first medal at Beijing Olympics.
"We are very happy about Zubari's medal and proud of him," Michal Shahaf, spokesperson of the Olympic Committee of Israel , who is currently in Beijing, told Xinhua Friday in a telephone interview, adding that it is almost certain that this will be the only medal Israeli Olympic delegation wins at Beijing Olympics.
Before Zubari's medal, some prominent Israeli athletes, who had been pinned much hope on getting a medal, failed to make it, which exerted a lot of pressure on the young windsurfer.
"It was very difficult work. I'm very happy with the accomplishment," Zubari told Israel's Channel 1 after winning the medal, adding that there was a lot of support from Israel.
As for the 21-year-old windsurfer, who will turn 22 on Sept. 1, the medal is doubtlessly a priceless birthday present. In addition, it is also a splendid gift to his country, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.
The Jewish state also relished the precious gain. Israeli President Shimon Peres and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert both called Wednesday to congratulate Zubari on his achievement.
"You've made us so happy. I've been following you all of these ten days. I was constantly impressed by your cool demeanor, your level headedness, and your self-confidence - your feeling that you conveyed to us that you will end up bringing a medal," Olmert was quoted by local media as saying.
"You have no idea how exciting it is," the prime minister continued. "I'm looking at you now through the TV and see you holding the flag. There are lots of tears of joy now in the eyes of Israelis. Your future is ahead of you."
Zubari's family was ecstatic at Zubari's victory.
"It's a great joy. Every member of the family except for Zubari was here at home watching the race. He was on a roll when he began and he took it all the way," Zubari's mother told Israel Radio from her home in Eilat, a city in southern Israel.
This is Israel's seventh Olympic medal, and Zubari is the sixth Olympic medalist in Israeli history. In the past, the Jewish state won six Olympic medals, including a gold, a silver and four bronze medals.
Thanks to Zubari's medal, the Israeli Olympic delegation avoided the awkwardness of coming back home empty-handed. However, Shahaf told Xinhua that "we are somewhat disappointed, because we have been expecting better results."
Despite that, Secretary General of OCI Efraim Zinger and the director of Israel's Elite Sport Department, Gili Lostig, told local media Thursday that when looking at the overall picture, the delegation performed as expected at Beijing Olympics.
"The most important fact is that for the fifth consecutive Olympics we have maintained our place in the very prestigious club of medal winning nations," Zinger said.
It may have been much tougher this time due to the improvement of the Asian athletes, and especially China, but Israel once more met this goal, added the secretary general.
Lostig noted that some 23 of the 43 Israeli athletes participating in Beijing Olympics are under 23-years-old, calling it an amazing fact.
"This means we have a young group of sportsmen which is replacing the older generation and this group will blossom in London 2012 ," said Lostig.
Source: Xinhua
French newspaper praises Beijing Olympics
The Beijing Olympics presented to the world a charming and fine image of China and a Beijing largely unknown to Westerners through TV coverage of the Games, said the French newspaper "La Tribune" on Friday.
The splendid opening ceremony directed by well-known Chinese movie director Zhang Yimou gave the Games a good start. Live TV coverage of the life in Beijing showed an image unfamiliar to Western audience, with lots of skyscrapers, magnificent sports facilities and well-organized Games, which has won the appreciation of all athletes, the paper said in an article.
The paper noted that the Chinese government's measures to reduce emission and improve air quality worked well. Drizzles from time to time brought humid and cool air, making the weather more comfortable.
Beijing had blue skies for more than half of the days during the Games, and the local residents enjoyed the pleasant ever summer in their memories, the paper added.
Beijing has put huge investment into the construction of sports venues and infrastructure, including subway, light rail transit and express way system. All these investments paid off in easing traffic and providing convenient public transport, the paper said.
The paper hailed the Beijing Olympics as the most expected Games over the last decades, and said that Beijing has happily fulfilled people's expectations.
Source: Xinhua
The splendid opening ceremony directed by well-known Chinese movie director Zhang Yimou gave the Games a good start. Live TV coverage of the life in Beijing showed an image unfamiliar to Western audience, with lots of skyscrapers, magnificent sports facilities and well-organized Games, which has won the appreciation of all athletes, the paper said in an article.
The paper noted that the Chinese government's measures to reduce emission and improve air quality worked well. Drizzles from time to time brought humid and cool air, making the weather more comfortable.
Beijing had blue skies for more than half of the days during the Games, and the local residents enjoyed the pleasant ever summer in their memories, the paper added.
Beijing has put huge investment into the construction of sports venues and infrastructure, including subway, light rail transit and express way system. All these investments paid off in easing traffic and providing convenient public transport, the paper said.
The paper hailed the Beijing Olympics as the most expected Games over the last decades, and said that Beijing has happily fulfilled people's expectations.
Source: Xinhua
Beijing reports improved environmental quality
Two major indicators of pollution, SO2 and COD, fell in the first half of this year in Beijing, marking new progress in the city's emission reduction effort, environmental regulators said on Saturday.
Emissions of sulfur dioxide in the Olympic host city in the first half of this year fell by 12.94 percent compared with the same period last year, the Ministry of Environmental Protection announced.
COD, or chemical oxygen demand, a measure of water pollution, dropped by 3.82 percent, it added.
The Chinese capital had projected to cut pollution levels for the two indicators by 10 percent and 4 percent respectively from last year.
The Beijing environment bureau attributed the achievement to the city's painstaking efforts in industrial restructuring and application of environment protection technologies.
According to the Beijing municipal government, the city has invested more than 140 billion yuan since 1998 to improve its air quality.
Air quality in the city so far this month has also been the best for any summer period over the last 10 years -- and within Olympic standards, the city's environment bureau said Tuesday.
Source: Xinhua
Emissions of sulfur dioxide in the Olympic host city in the first half of this year fell by 12.94 percent compared with the same period last year, the Ministry of Environmental Protection announced.
COD, or chemical oxygen demand, a measure of water pollution, dropped by 3.82 percent, it added.
The Chinese capital had projected to cut pollution levels for the two indicators by 10 percent and 4 percent respectively from last year.
The Beijing environment bureau attributed the achievement to the city's painstaking efforts in industrial restructuring and application of environment protection technologies.
According to the Beijing municipal government, the city has invested more than 140 billion yuan since 1998 to improve its air quality.
Air quality in the city so far this month has also been the best for any summer period over the last 10 years -- and within Olympic standards, the city's environment bureau said Tuesday.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese divers breeze into platform final for historic medal sweep
Olympic champ Huo Liang led a Chinese 1-2 with Zhou Luxin on Saturday to breeze into the men's platform final at Beijing Olympics.
China is just a few dives from a clean sweep of all Olympic golds for the first time since 1952.
Huo, newly-crowned in the synchro platform event, seized the lead after his second dive, an inward three-and-a-half somersault in tuck position, for which he scored the second highest 92.80 points.
He was taken over by teammate Zhou Luxin, silver winner of the 2008 World Cup, after his fourth dive. But the 19-year-old Huo clawed back and finished first at 549.95 points.
"I feel more relaxed today than the preliminary yesterday. I will try to present the best of myself in the final tonight," said Huo, who advanced into the preliminary at eighth place.
Matthew Mitcham of Australia, world No. 3 in the event, took the second place at 532.20 points. Chinese Zhou, as world No. 2, settled for the third with 526.20.
Russian world champion Gleb Galperin qualified for the final at the fourth place.
German top diver Sascha Klein, a pre-competition favorite, was shut out of the final following an embarrassing last place in the semifinals.
Klein had won a surprise title in the World Cup earlier this year,and was considered the strongest threat to the Chinese.
The top 12 finishers in the 18-man field advanced to the platform final scheduled for Saturday evening.
Source: Xinhua
China is just a few dives from a clean sweep of all Olympic golds for the first time since 1952.
Huo, newly-crowned in the synchro platform event, seized the lead after his second dive, an inward three-and-a-half somersault in tuck position, for which he scored the second highest 92.80 points.
He was taken over by teammate Zhou Luxin, silver winner of the 2008 World Cup, after his fourth dive. But the 19-year-old Huo clawed back and finished first at 549.95 points.
"I feel more relaxed today than the preliminary yesterday. I will try to present the best of myself in the final tonight," said Huo, who advanced into the preliminary at eighth place.
Matthew Mitcham of Australia, world No. 3 in the event, took the second place at 532.20 points. Chinese Zhou, as world No. 2, settled for the third with 526.20.
Russian world champion Gleb Galperin qualified for the final at the fourth place.
German top diver Sascha Klein, a pre-competition favorite, was shut out of the final following an embarrassing last place in the semifinals.
Klein had won a surprise title in the World Cup earlier this year,and was considered the strongest threat to the Chinese.
The top 12 finishers in the 18-man field advanced to the platform final scheduled for Saturday evening.
Source: Xinhua
Opalev of Russia wins men's canoe single (C1) 500m gold
Maxim Opalevo of Russia competes in the men's canoe single 500m final at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in the Shunyi Rowing-Canoeing Park in Beijing, China, Aug. 23, 2008. Maxim Opalevo of Russia won the gold medal.
Maxim Opalev of Russia came from behind to win the gold medal in the Olympic canoe flatwater men's single 500 meters in the Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park on Saturday.
Opalev finished in 1 minute 47.140 seconds, 1.257 seconds ahead of David Cal of Spain, silver medalist in Athens. Lurii Cheban of Ukraine took the bronze in 1:48.766.
The 29-year-old Russian made a slow start and was in fifth by the half-way mark. But he moved past then leader Aliaksandr Zhukovski of Belarus with a late charge in the last 100 meters and kept the lead across the finish line. Cal also won silver in the C1 1,000m on Friday.
Zhukovski, who led most of the way, finished in fifth. China's Li Qiang came in sixth in 1:49.287.
Source: Xinhua
Maxim Opalev of Russia came from behind to win the gold medal in the Olympic canoe flatwater men's single 500 meters in the Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park on Saturday.
Opalev finished in 1 minute 47.140 seconds, 1.257 seconds ahead of David Cal of Spain, silver medalist in Athens. Lurii Cheban of Ukraine took the bronze in 1:48.766.
The 29-year-old Russian made a slow start and was in fifth by the half-way mark. But he moved past then leader Aliaksandr Zhukovski of Belarus with a late charge in the last 100 meters and kept the lead across the finish line. Cal also won silver in the C1 1,000m on Friday.
Zhukovski, who led most of the way, finished in fifth. China's Li Qiang came in sixth in 1:49.287.
Source: Xinhua
Beijing Olympic village mayor welcomes Pele's presence
Former Brazilian football player Pele talks to Deng Yaping, deputy director of the BOCOG Olympic Village Department, in the Olympic Village in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Pele paid a visit to the Olympic Village on Friday.
Journalists interview former Brazilian football player Pele in the Olympic Village in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Pele paid a visit to the Olympic Village on Friday.
Chen Zhili, mayor of the Beijing Olympic Village, met with Brazilian Pele on Friday and extended her welcome and gratitude to his presence at the Beijing Games.
She said China and Brazil are developing countries, and Brazilian people have made great contribution to the world, hoping that Brazil can help China develop its soccer performance. Pele expressed consent.
The soccer legend offered Chen a football bearing his autograph, and the Olympic village mayor gave the guest a model of the Great Wall.
Born on Oct. 23, 1940, Pele had his original name as Edison Arantes do Nascimento, and has been rated as a great footballer.
Source: Xinhua
Journalists interview former Brazilian football player Pele in the Olympic Village in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. Pele paid a visit to the Olympic Village on Friday.
Chen Zhili, mayor of the Beijing Olympic Village, met with Brazilian Pele on Friday and extended her welcome and gratitude to his presence at the Beijing Games.
She said China and Brazil are developing countries, and Brazilian people have made great contribution to the world, hoping that Brazil can help China develop its soccer performance. Pele expressed consent.
The soccer legend offered Chen a football bearing his autograph, and the Olympic village mayor gave the guest a model of the Great Wall.
Born on Oct. 23, 1940, Pele had his original name as Edison Arantes do Nascimento, and has been rated as a great footballer.
Source: Xinhua
Preview: China to face heavy siege in platform diving
The Chinese "dream team" is cautious than ever for challenges from men's platform rivals on its way to bag the last diving gold at Beijing Olympics.
Chinese favorites Zhou Luxin and Huo Liang are out to stage a one-two finish for China. As world No.2 in the event, Zhou had grabbed silver medals both at the 2007 World Championships in Melbourne and the World Cup in Beijing earlier this year.
Huo had replaced another Olympic champion Lin Yue to compete in the individual event, simply because he has better form than his synchro partner Lin.
The duo snatched gold in men's 10m synchro event on Aug. 11.
German top diver Sascha Klein, Russian world champion Gleb Galperin, world No.3 Mathew Mitcham of Australia and his teammate Mathew Helm, silver medalist at the Athens Olympics, are among the strong rivals aiming to end China's gold spree.
Klein, current world No. 1 in platform diving, had won a surprise title in the World Cup earlier this year by fending off strong Chinese divers.
Galperin had been sidelined since 2007 summer due to spinal injury, however he recovered to claim a stunning victory in this discipline at the Grand Prix in Russia last April.
The 27-year-old Helm hopes to end his diving career with a medal in his third Olympic trip.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese favorites Zhou Luxin and Huo Liang are out to stage a one-two finish for China. As world No.2 in the event, Zhou had grabbed silver medals both at the 2007 World Championships in Melbourne and the World Cup in Beijing earlier this year.
Huo had replaced another Olympic champion Lin Yue to compete in the individual event, simply because he has better form than his synchro partner Lin.
The duo snatched gold in men's 10m synchro event on Aug. 11.
German top diver Sascha Klein, Russian world champion Gleb Galperin, world No.3 Mathew Mitcham of Australia and his teammate Mathew Helm, silver medalist at the Athens Olympics, are among the strong rivals aiming to end China's gold spree.
Klein, current world No. 1 in platform diving, had won a surprise title in the World Cup earlier this year by fending off strong Chinese divers.
Galperin had been sidelined since 2007 summer due to spinal injury, however he recovered to claim a stunning victory in this discipline at the Grand Prix in Russia last April.
The 27-year-old Helm hopes to end his diving career with a medal in his third Olympic trip.
Source: Xinhua
Brazil beats Belgium 3-0 to win Olympic football bronze
Brazil won bronze medal of Beijing Olympic men's football tournament here on Friday by beating Belgium 3-0.
The match began with stalemate, in which Belgium offensive performed slightly better. Brazilian big names seemed unlucky, with Ronaldinho yellow carded for faking a fall in the 26th minute, followed by an offside bicycle kick in minute 7.
Diego scored the first goal at Rafinha's cross in the 27th minute. And in the 45th minute Jo scored the second with a nice header, altering the halftime score into 2-0.
However, the consecutive goals didn't drive Brazil toward a more Brazilian way, making the rest of the match unattractive.
The Selecao, though shining with Ronaldinho and Ramires' superb passing capabilities to move past a chain of Belgium defenders, were a little bit conservative. From time to time, rounds of dull exchanges among their own defenders aroused catcalls from the disappointed Brazil fans.
The less lively Selecao left a series of opportunities to Belgium near the net. However, Belgium forwards, more active but less experienced, failed to grasp the chances.
Obviously they were determined for continuous attacks, but neither their individual skills nor team organization was capable of filling the gap. By the end of the match, Jo took a last-gasp goal to seal their victory at 3-0.
Brazil beat Belgium 1-0 in their first group game. Before Beijing Games, the two teams have met only once in a major international tournament, with Brazil defeating Belgium 2-0 in the elimination round of the 2002 World Cup, a tournament that Brazil eventually won.
Despite being five-times world champion, Brazil's best Olympic effort had been two silver medals in 1984 and 1988, plus a bronze in 1996. As Brazil's fourth Olympic medal, the bronze is the only consolation Brazil can be happy with.
Source: Xinhua
The match began with stalemate, in which Belgium offensive performed slightly better. Brazilian big names seemed unlucky, with Ronaldinho yellow carded for faking a fall in the 26th minute, followed by an offside bicycle kick in minute 7.
Diego scored the first goal at Rafinha's cross in the 27th minute. And in the 45th minute Jo scored the second with a nice header, altering the halftime score into 2-0.
However, the consecutive goals didn't drive Brazil toward a more Brazilian way, making the rest of the match unattractive.
The Selecao, though shining with Ronaldinho and Ramires' superb passing capabilities to move past a chain of Belgium defenders, were a little bit conservative. From time to time, rounds of dull exchanges among their own defenders aroused catcalls from the disappointed Brazil fans.
The less lively Selecao left a series of opportunities to Belgium near the net. However, Belgium forwards, more active but less experienced, failed to grasp the chances.
Obviously they were determined for continuous attacks, but neither their individual skills nor team organization was capable of filling the gap. By the end of the match, Jo took a last-gasp goal to seal their victory at 3-0.
Brazil beat Belgium 1-0 in their first group game. Before Beijing Games, the two teams have met only once in a major international tournament, with Brazil defeating Belgium 2-0 in the elimination round of the 2002 World Cup, a tournament that Brazil eventually won.
Despite being five-times world champion, Brazil's best Olympic effort had been two silver medals in 1984 and 1988, plus a bronze in 1996. As Brazil's fourth Olympic medal, the bronze is the only consolation Brazil can be happy with.
Source: Xinhua
Beijing Olympics no pressure on 2012 Games, London Olympics organizers say
Organizers of the 2012 London Olympics said on Friday the success of the Beijing Olympic Games did not put pressure on the British capital, but rather great inspiration and responsibility.
Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012, told a press conference here that Sunday's official handover ceremony would mark the start of Britain's four-year "cultural Olympiad". It would also provide the opportunity to present Britain's appeal to a global audience.
Sebastian Coe, chairman of London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games , speaks during a press conference held at the Beijing International Media Center in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. LOCOG representatives introduced the organization works of the London Olympic Games and commented on the Beijing Olympics here on Friday.
Coe believed the Beijing Games were very successful and had a detailed plan leading to the success from the very beginning, something which his team had learned much from.
He cited the track and field events at the Games as an example, saying it was "handled extremely well" as the system for transporting participants from the Olympic Village to the stadium was very efficient.
Coe was quite satisfied with the performance of British athletes in Beijing as they inspired London organizers to stage a successful Games.
Christopher Rodrigues, the Visit Britain chairman, said it would remind the world the United Kingdom was the birthplace of the modern Olympic and Paralympic Games as well as sports such as rugby, cricket and tennis. The city held the 1948 Summer Olympics after a 12-year interruption caused by the outbreak of World War II.
Representatives from the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games attend a press conference at the Beijing International Media Center in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008.
London will take over as host city of the Olympics at the end of the Beijing Olympics' closing ceremony on Sunday. Guitarist Jimmy Page, footballer David Beckham and singer Leona Lewis are to appear in the eight minute handover performance of the event.
Paul Deighton, the London committee chief executive, said the volunteers at the Beijing Games had done a brilliant job. He clearly remembered "the smiles of their faces trying to help us with everything we want to do". There are going to be 70,000 volunteers working at the London Games, roughly the same as the Beijing Games.
He said about 9 million tickets would be with the London Games but "how they would be allocated has yet to be decided." "Our objective is to ensure there is the broadest possible participation from many countries as we can."
Two people talk beside a poster of the London Olympics after a press conference held by the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games at the Beijing International Media Center in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008.
Similar to the Beijing Games' transportation plan, the London Games would ensure all ticketed spectators arrive at venues by public transport and there would be no private car parking.
Deighton said there were going to be 10 separate train lines coming to the Olympic Park from different parts of London, which involved a significant transport investment.
He said the budget for the infrastructure in the London Games was 9.3 billion pounds . The infrastructure construction was "really a regeneration project, stimulated by the Games," he said.
"The government budget is funded mostly by general taxpayers, partly by lottery players and partly by London taxpayers."
Source: Xinhua
Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012, told a press conference here that Sunday's official handover ceremony would mark the start of Britain's four-year "cultural Olympiad". It would also provide the opportunity to present Britain's appeal to a global audience.
Sebastian Coe, chairman of London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games , speaks during a press conference held at the Beijing International Media Center in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008. LOCOG representatives introduced the organization works of the London Olympic Games and commented on the Beijing Olympics here on Friday.
Coe believed the Beijing Games were very successful and had a detailed plan leading to the success from the very beginning, something which his team had learned much from.
He cited the track and field events at the Games as an example, saying it was "handled extremely well" as the system for transporting participants from the Olympic Village to the stadium was very efficient.
Coe was quite satisfied with the performance of British athletes in Beijing as they inspired London organizers to stage a successful Games.
Christopher Rodrigues, the Visit Britain chairman, said it would remind the world the United Kingdom was the birthplace of the modern Olympic and Paralympic Games as well as sports such as rugby, cricket and tennis. The city held the 1948 Summer Olympics after a 12-year interruption caused by the outbreak of World War II.
Representatives from the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games attend a press conference at the Beijing International Media Center in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008.
London will take over as host city of the Olympics at the end of the Beijing Olympics' closing ceremony on Sunday. Guitarist Jimmy Page, footballer David Beckham and singer Leona Lewis are to appear in the eight minute handover performance of the event.
Paul Deighton, the London committee chief executive, said the volunteers at the Beijing Games had done a brilliant job. He clearly remembered "the smiles of their faces trying to help us with everything we want to do". There are going to be 70,000 volunteers working at the London Games, roughly the same as the Beijing Games.
He said about 9 million tickets would be with the London Games but "how they would be allocated has yet to be decided." "Our objective is to ensure there is the broadest possible participation from many countries as we can."
Two people talk beside a poster of the London Olympics after a press conference held by the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games at the Beijing International Media Center in Beijing, China, Aug. 22, 2008.
Similar to the Beijing Games' transportation plan, the London Games would ensure all ticketed spectators arrive at venues by public transport and there would be no private car parking.
Deighton said there were going to be 10 separate train lines coming to the Olympic Park from different parts of London, which involved a significant transport investment.
He said the budget for the infrastructure in the London Games was 9.3 billion pounds . The infrastructure construction was "really a regeneration project, stimulated by the Games," he said.
"The government budget is funded mostly by general taxpayers, partly by lottery players and partly by London taxpayers."
Source: Xinhua
Dalhausser named men's beach volleyball Most Outstanding Player at Beijing Olympics
U.S. beach volleyballer Phil Dalhausser was named the Most Outstanding Player for the men's beach volleyball competition at the Beijing Olympics on Saturday.
He teamed with Todd Rogers to win the gold medals on Friday, defeating Marcio Araujo and Fabio Luiz Magalhaes of Brazil in the final.
"I'm on cloud nine, I guess," said the 2.06-meter Dalhausser after the gold medal match. "It's the best feeling I've ever had in my life. "I got in a zone. I was on a roll. I saw the ball and put my hand on it, and that's it."
Rogers, who was named the Most Outstanding Player when he and Dalhausser captured the 2007 SWATCH-FIVB World Championships, called his partner "a freak of nature. He can do everything the sport demands."
Brazil's Emanuel Rego, who won the Athens 2004 Olympic gold medal and captured the Beijing bronze with Ricardo Santos, called Dalhausser "a wall". "He is changing the way people see the sport. Before, it was about defense. Now, it is about blocking."
Dalhausser was named the SWATCH FIVB World Tour best blocker in 2006 and 2007, the best hitter in 2007 and the most improved player in 2006.
Misty May-Treanor of the United States, who was paired up with Kerri Walsh to win the women's title, was named the women's Most Outstanding Player in the beach volleyball competition. They defeated China's Tian Jia and Wang Jie in the final.
Source: Xinhua
He teamed with Todd Rogers to win the gold medals on Friday, defeating Marcio Araujo and Fabio Luiz Magalhaes of Brazil in the final.
"I'm on cloud nine, I guess," said the 2.06-meter Dalhausser after the gold medal match. "It's the best feeling I've ever had in my life. "I got in a zone. I was on a roll. I saw the ball and put my hand on it, and that's it."
Rogers, who was named the Most Outstanding Player when he and Dalhausser captured the 2007 SWATCH-FIVB World Championships, called his partner "a freak of nature. He can do everything the sport demands."
Brazil's Emanuel Rego, who won the Athens 2004 Olympic gold medal and captured the Beijing bronze with Ricardo Santos, called Dalhausser "a wall". "He is changing the way people see the sport. Before, it was about defense. Now, it is about blocking."
Dalhausser was named the SWATCH FIVB World Tour best blocker in 2006 and 2007, the best hitter in 2007 and the most improved player in 2006.
Misty May-Treanor of the United States, who was paired up with Kerri Walsh to win the women's title, was named the women's Most Outstanding Player in the beach volleyball competition. They defeated China's Tian Jia and Wang Jie in the final.
Source: Xinhua
Romania takes seventh place at Beijing Olympics women's handball
Romania edged Sweden 34-30 to take the seventh place in the Beijing Olympics women's handball on Saturday.
Swedish coach Ulf Schefvert told reporters after the match, "The debut in the Olympics is a new experience for us. We have matches in the morning during the Games, which is also quite fresh experience. The matches after the quarterfinals have turned into psychological fights as all players are tired."
Romanian coach Gheorghe Tadici said, "Although it was not planned before the match, we decided to remain patient in attacking according to the situation. In the new Olympic circle every team will undergo new changes. Swedish players are young and have plenty of chances to alter themselves."
Romania showed great patience in launching attacks before the halftime. Facing with the defense organized by stronger Swedish rivals, Romanian players transferred the ball before the net frequently and mounted sudden assaults. The trick worked very well in the first 19 minutes and helped Romania extend the lead to seven goals. The first half ended 17-15 with Romania leading.
Debutant Sweden made a strong comeback after the interval. Romania's right wing Ramona Maier and left wing Neli Elisei, however, strengthened the lead of their team by scoring three and four points respectively, leaving no chance to the rival again.
Sweden was edged by host China 20-19 in a 5th-8th playoff while France downed Romania 36-34 in a pulsating two-overtime thriller of the placement.
Source: Xinhua
Swedish coach Ulf Schefvert told reporters after the match, "The debut in the Olympics is a new experience for us. We have matches in the morning during the Games, which is also quite fresh experience. The matches after the quarterfinals have turned into psychological fights as all players are tired."
Romanian coach Gheorghe Tadici said, "Although it was not planned before the match, we decided to remain patient in attacking according to the situation. In the new Olympic circle every team will undergo new changes. Swedish players are young and have plenty of chances to alter themselves."
Romania showed great patience in launching attacks before the halftime. Facing with the defense organized by stronger Swedish rivals, Romanian players transferred the ball before the net frequently and mounted sudden assaults. The trick worked very well in the first 19 minutes and helped Romania extend the lead to seven goals. The first half ended 17-15 with Romania leading.
Debutant Sweden made a strong comeback after the interval. Romania's right wing Ramona Maier and left wing Neli Elisei, however, strengthened the lead of their team by scoring three and four points respectively, leaving no chance to the rival again.
Sweden was edged by host China 20-19 in a 5th-8th playoff while France downed Romania 36-34 in a pulsating two-overtime thriller of the placement.
Source: Xinhua
Persson fails to hold back all-Chinese final in table tennis semifinal
Swedish veteran Jorgen Persson failed to prevent an all-Chinese final but staged a spirited challenge to world No. 1 Wang Hao in the singles table tennis semifinal of the Beijing Olympic Games on Satursday.
The two sides fought a tense, tight five-set game which featured many long rallies and blistering topspin before the Chinese triumphed 4-1.
Wang Hao, 25, got off a flying start to take the first two sets 11-9, 11-9.
But the clash turned in Persson's favor as the 1991 word champion took a 4-0 lead in the third set and won 11-9.
Wang managed to control his serves and came back to dominate the rest of the game 11-7, 11-9.
"It is unfortunate that I lost the close set today, I have been winning a lot, but today Wang Hao is a little stronger," Persson said.
The 42-year-old snatched down 5th-ranked Vladimir Samsonov of Belarus and Croatia's Zoran Primorac to storm into semifinals, the second-best result he achieved after finishing fourth at the Sydney 2000 Games.
"I am not satisfied with this and I'll go back to prepare for the bronze match," he said.
After days of intensive battles on the court, Persson is the only non-Chinese paddler who reached the top four.
The Swede has vowed to break the Chinese wall which he described as "the Great Wall".
"I can't make it now, but I' ll try to make it tonight, and It's a hard wall to break," the sixth-time Olympian said a laugh. Two Chinese, two South Koreans and one Swede have claimed the men's singles title in Olympic history.
Wang Hao and coach Liu Guoliang hugged each other, both bursting into tears.
"The match reminded me of the time when Kong Linghui and I fought on the table tennis court eight years ago," said Liu.
In the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Liu captured the singles bronze medal after losing to Swede Jan-Ove Waldner. Kong battled hard against Waldner to be crowned.
Persson will play 4th-ranked Wang Liqin, who was defeated by Ma Lin 4-2, for the bronze medal Saturday evening.
Source: Xinhua
The two sides fought a tense, tight five-set game which featured many long rallies and blistering topspin before the Chinese triumphed 4-1.
Wang Hao, 25, got off a flying start to take the first two sets 11-9, 11-9.
But the clash turned in Persson's favor as the 1991 word champion took a 4-0 lead in the third set and won 11-9.
Wang managed to control his serves and came back to dominate the rest of the game 11-7, 11-9.
"It is unfortunate that I lost the close set today, I have been winning a lot, but today Wang Hao is a little stronger," Persson said.
The 42-year-old snatched down 5th-ranked Vladimir Samsonov of Belarus and Croatia's Zoran Primorac to storm into semifinals, the second-best result he achieved after finishing fourth at the Sydney 2000 Games.
"I am not satisfied with this and I'll go back to prepare for the bronze match," he said.
After days of intensive battles on the court, Persson is the only non-Chinese paddler who reached the top four.
The Swede has vowed to break the Chinese wall which he described as "the Great Wall".
"I can't make it now, but I' ll try to make it tonight, and It's a hard wall to break," the sixth-time Olympian said a laugh. Two Chinese, two South Koreans and one Swede have claimed the men's singles title in Olympic history.
Wang Hao and coach Liu Guoliang hugged each other, both bursting into tears.
"The match reminded me of the time when Kong Linghui and I fought on the table tennis court eight years ago," said Liu.
In the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Liu captured the singles bronze medal after losing to Swede Jan-Ove Waldner. Kong battled hard against Waldner to be crowned.
Persson will play 4th-ranked Wang Liqin, who was defeated by Ma Lin 4-2, for the bronze medal Saturday evening.
Source: Xinhua
Colombia awards weightlifter silver medalist
Colombian government on Friday gave a check for 50,000 U.S. dollars to the weightlifter Diego Salazar, who won a silver medal at the Olympic Games of Beijing.
Salazar received the check from the director of the Colombian Institute of Sports Everth Bustamante.
Salazar said that he will use the money to buy a house for his family. Salazar was welcomed as a hero by multitude in the airport, after he come back from China where he won the silver medal in 62kg weightlifting.
Salazar had won gold at the world Cups of Paris 2003, Helsinki 2005 and Osaka 2007.
Colombia won two medals in the Olympic Games of Beijing, one silver from Salazar and the other a bronze from Jacqueline Renteria at wrestling 55kg class.
Source: Xinhua
Salazar received the check from the director of the Colombian Institute of Sports Everth Bustamante.
Salazar said that he will use the money to buy a house for his family. Salazar was welcomed as a hero by multitude in the airport, after he come back from China where he won the silver medal in 62kg weightlifting.
Salazar had won gold at the world Cups of Paris 2003, Helsinki 2005 and Osaka 2007.
Colombia won two medals in the Olympic Games of Beijing, one silver from Salazar and the other a bronze from Jacqueline Renteria at wrestling 55kg class.
Source: Xinhua
Official: Beijing air pollution index down more than 20 percentage points during Olympics
The Air Pollution Index in the Olympic host city has dropped by more than 20 percentage points compared with the same period last year, said an official on Saturday.
The API declined from around 80 points last year to about 56 during the Olympic Games in August, said Du Shaozhong, deputy director of the Beijing Municipal Environmental Bureau at a press conference.
Major air pollutants on average dropped 40 percent, with nitrogen oxide emission directly related to vehicles down by 61 percent, and inhalable particulate matters falling 40 percent, said Du.
According to the Beijing municipal government, the city has invested more than 140 billion yuan since 1998 to improve its air quality.
Source: Xinhua
The API declined from around 80 points last year to about 56 during the Olympic Games in August, said Du Shaozhong, deputy director of the Beijing Municipal Environmental Bureau at a press conference.
Major air pollutants on average dropped 40 percent, with nitrogen oxide emission directly related to vehicles down by 61 percent, and inhalable particulate matters falling 40 percent, said Du.
According to the Beijing municipal government, the city has invested more than 140 billion yuan since 1998 to improve its air quality.
Source: Xinhua
Commentary: Beijing Olympic Games to shine in history
In less than two days, the sacred flame of the 29th summer Olympic Games in Beijing, which has been burning atop the National Stadium in north Beijing since Aug. 8, is going to be extinguished.
The Chinese people now can proudly announce to the world: we have lived up to the trust of the international community and the International Olympic Committee .
Meanwhile, the world can also say with gratification: we have made a correct decision by selecting Beijing and China as the Olympic host.
At the Beijing Olympic Games, miracles were produced and dreams fulfilled. To date, 38 world records have been refreshed at these Games.
American swimmer Michael Phelps grabbed eight gold medals in the Beijing pool with seven fresh world records, while Jamaican Usain Bolt was double crowned in men's 100m and 200m sprint with record speeds. Their superb performance has excited the whole world.
The Chinese delegation has so far topped the gold medal table, while other delegations, such as Mongolia, Togo, Afghanistan and Tajikistan, have made historic breakthroughs by winning their first Olympic medals or gold medals.
The Beijing Olympic Games are also full of touching moments: Russian Natalia Paderina and Georgian Nino Salukvadze hugged each other for celebration after taking silver and bronze respectively in women's 10m air pistol, fully demonstrating mankind's love for peace and friendship.
33-year-old Oksana Chusovitina, a former Uzbek gymnast who prolonged her career and moved to Germany to raise funds for her leukemia-afflicted son, won a silver in women's vault and moved the world with her great maternal love.
When German weightlifter Matthias Steiner held high both his gold medal and a photo of his beloved wife, who was killed in a car accident one year ago, on the award podium, spectators and TV audience were all deeply touched by his endless love.
When South African Natalie du Toit finished 16th in the grueling women's 10-kilometer open water race and told the press "I don't even think about not having a leg," people marveled at her triumph over adversity.
The Beijing Olympic Games are a milestone in the course of the great reinvigoration of the Chinese nation. And this generation of the Chinese people are lucky to witness a century-old dream of the nation finally come true.
The success of the Beijing Olympic Games has also reflected the great achievements China has scored after three decades of reform and opening-up.
Without the material and spiritual progress achieved over the past 30 years, it would have been impossible for the Chinese to attain their goal of "hosting a high-standard and unique Olympic Games."
Over the past seven years, China has tried its best to fulfill its commitments to the international community, earnestly performed its international duties, and prepared for the Games with an open mind and in a down-to-earth manner. It is not just Beijing, but the whole country that has given everything to guarantee the success of the Olympic Games.
The Beijing Olympic Games are an opportunity for China. The hosting of these Games has boosted the Chinese people's self-esteem, enhanced national cohesion, and reinforced the country's faith in pursuing a peaceful development.
The Beijing Olympic Games have helped the world to better understand China's social system and development mode, and have added impetus to China's opening-up to the outside world.
Through the Beijing Olympic Games, the world has had a better knowledge of what China is like -- a country that makes constant progress, emphasizes friendship and harmony, keeps its promises, and respects all international rules.
As the main host city, Beijing has benefited directly from the Olympic Games, which have left such modern, iconic architecture as the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, and also greatly promoted the local infrastructure construction.
More importantly, these Games have infused the public with the concept of "green Olympics, high-tech Olympics and people's Olympics," which will play a significant role in promoting China's environmental protection, scientific innovation and public participation in social affairs.
The Chinese people have also impressed the world with their immense enthusiasm for the Games and their warm support for all competing athletes, regardless of their nationality, race or sport. The world has seen the hospitality, kindness and tolerance of the Chinese people through the performance of millions of volunteers, cheerleaders and spectators.
The Beijing Olympic Games also mark the integration of the Western civilization with the Chinese civilization. The Olympic spirit, which underlines respect for the rules, encouragement of participation and fair play, has left a precious spiritual legacy for the Chinese people. Just as the IOC predicted seven years ago, the Beijing Olympic Games would "leave a unique legacy for both China and sport as a whole."
The Beijing Olympic Games have also greatly promoted the development of the Olympic Movement. The Olympic Games have become a symbol of modern civilization since their revival 112 years ago. However, such a symbol would have been incomplete if the Games had not come to the origin of the oriental civilization and the home of one fifth of world population.
Thanks to the joint efforts by the Chinese people, the IOC and the international community, the Olympic flame was finally brought to Beijing, lighting up the Chinese people's dream of a harmonious world that features solidarity, friendship and peace.
A successful Olympic Games in Beijing -- it is indeed the most precious gift the Chinese nation has presented to the world.
Source: Xinhua
The Chinese people now can proudly announce to the world: we have lived up to the trust of the international community and the International Olympic Committee .
Meanwhile, the world can also say with gratification: we have made a correct decision by selecting Beijing and China as the Olympic host.
At the Beijing Olympic Games, miracles were produced and dreams fulfilled. To date, 38 world records have been refreshed at these Games.
American swimmer Michael Phelps grabbed eight gold medals in the Beijing pool with seven fresh world records, while Jamaican Usain Bolt was double crowned in men's 100m and 200m sprint with record speeds. Their superb performance has excited the whole world.
The Chinese delegation has so far topped the gold medal table, while other delegations, such as Mongolia, Togo, Afghanistan and Tajikistan, have made historic breakthroughs by winning their first Olympic medals or gold medals.
The Beijing Olympic Games are also full of touching moments: Russian Natalia Paderina and Georgian Nino Salukvadze hugged each other for celebration after taking silver and bronze respectively in women's 10m air pistol, fully demonstrating mankind's love for peace and friendship.
33-year-old Oksana Chusovitina, a former Uzbek gymnast who prolonged her career and moved to Germany to raise funds for her leukemia-afflicted son, won a silver in women's vault and moved the world with her great maternal love.
When German weightlifter Matthias Steiner held high both his gold medal and a photo of his beloved wife, who was killed in a car accident one year ago, on the award podium, spectators and TV audience were all deeply touched by his endless love.
When South African Natalie du Toit finished 16th in the grueling women's 10-kilometer open water race and told the press "I don't even think about not having a leg," people marveled at her triumph over adversity.
The Beijing Olympic Games are a milestone in the course of the great reinvigoration of the Chinese nation. And this generation of the Chinese people are lucky to witness a century-old dream of the nation finally come true.
The success of the Beijing Olympic Games has also reflected the great achievements China has scored after three decades of reform and opening-up.
Without the material and spiritual progress achieved over the past 30 years, it would have been impossible for the Chinese to attain their goal of "hosting a high-standard and unique Olympic Games."
Over the past seven years, China has tried its best to fulfill its commitments to the international community, earnestly performed its international duties, and prepared for the Games with an open mind and in a down-to-earth manner. It is not just Beijing, but the whole country that has given everything to guarantee the success of the Olympic Games.
The Beijing Olympic Games are an opportunity for China. The hosting of these Games has boosted the Chinese people's self-esteem, enhanced national cohesion, and reinforced the country's faith in pursuing a peaceful development.
The Beijing Olympic Games have helped the world to better understand China's social system and development mode, and have added impetus to China's opening-up to the outside world.
Through the Beijing Olympic Games, the world has had a better knowledge of what China is like -- a country that makes constant progress, emphasizes friendship and harmony, keeps its promises, and respects all international rules.
As the main host city, Beijing has benefited directly from the Olympic Games, which have left such modern, iconic architecture as the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, and also greatly promoted the local infrastructure construction.
More importantly, these Games have infused the public with the concept of "green Olympics, high-tech Olympics and people's Olympics," which will play a significant role in promoting China's environmental protection, scientific innovation and public participation in social affairs.
The Chinese people have also impressed the world with their immense enthusiasm for the Games and their warm support for all competing athletes, regardless of their nationality, race or sport. The world has seen the hospitality, kindness and tolerance of the Chinese people through the performance of millions of volunteers, cheerleaders and spectators.
The Beijing Olympic Games also mark the integration of the Western civilization with the Chinese civilization. The Olympic spirit, which underlines respect for the rules, encouragement of participation and fair play, has left a precious spiritual legacy for the Chinese people. Just as the IOC predicted seven years ago, the Beijing Olympic Games would "leave a unique legacy for both China and sport as a whole."
The Beijing Olympic Games have also greatly promoted the development of the Olympic Movement. The Olympic Games have become a symbol of modern civilization since their revival 112 years ago. However, such a symbol would have been incomplete if the Games had not come to the origin of the oriental civilization and the home of one fifth of world population.
Thanks to the joint efforts by the Chinese people, the IOC and the international community, the Olympic flame was finally brought to Beijing, lighting up the Chinese people's dream of a harmonious world that features solidarity, friendship and peace.
A successful Olympic Games in Beijing -- it is indeed the most precious gift the Chinese nation has presented to the world.
Source: Xinhua
Breakthroughs are more important than gold medals
In the Olympics, the gold medal is the highest tribute to an athlete. To appear on the medal list is the dream of every participant. But the theme song of the Olympics is not the one at medal presentation. The Olympic Games is honored as the highest palace of sports, not only because it yields a number of gold medal winners every four years, but also because it fully displays the charm and the true meaning of sports. Through the games and the gold medals, people are moved, enlightened and inspired.
For the first half of the Beijing Olympics, people eyed on Michael Phelps: if he could fulfill his quest for 8 golds, it will be an unprecedented breakthrough. For the track and field, Usain Bolt won more applauses than other gold winners as the record he created represents a breakthrough in human's challenging the physical limit. Similarly, when Xian Dongmei and Chen Yanqing made a comeback and once again won the gold medal, they also represent the spirit of breaking through. The theme song of the Olympics plays for the wonderful performances of these people.
This theme song reverberates over the podium, but the climax part is played during the competitions. At the men's 400-meter free style, Zhang Lin is a real surprise. Though he just wins the second place, it is still a real zinger,: it is the first medal of Chinese men's swimming team ever won in the Olympics and it is probably more impressive than the possibility of the Chinese table tennis team winning all the gold medals.
The theme song of breaking through not only reverberates in the games, but also resonances far away round the world. When an athlete wins the first gold medal for his or her country or makes a historical breakthrough, the news turns the whole country into a sea of joy. 24 years ago, we used to be just as happy with tears when Xu Haifeng fired his winning shots.
The theme song of the Olympics is the song of breaking through, just because breakthroughs are more important than gold medals. Gold medals are won through competing with others. They only represent personal achievements. But to make a breakthrough, is to ceaselessly challenge oneself. Breakthroughs mesh better with the Olympic slogan “faster, higher, and stronger” than winning gold medals.
By People's Daily Online
For the first half of the Beijing Olympics, people eyed on Michael Phelps: if he could fulfill his quest for 8 golds, it will be an unprecedented breakthrough. For the track and field, Usain Bolt won more applauses than other gold winners as the record he created represents a breakthrough in human's challenging the physical limit. Similarly, when Xian Dongmei and Chen Yanqing made a comeback and once again won the gold medal, they also represent the spirit of breaking through. The theme song of the Olympics plays for the wonderful performances of these people.
This theme song reverberates over the podium, but the climax part is played during the competitions. At the men's 400-meter free style, Zhang Lin is a real surprise. Though he just wins the second place, it is still a real zinger,: it is the first medal of Chinese men's swimming team ever won in the Olympics and it is probably more impressive than the possibility of the Chinese table tennis team winning all the gold medals.
The theme song of breaking through not only reverberates in the games, but also resonances far away round the world. When an athlete wins the first gold medal for his or her country or makes a historical breakthrough, the news turns the whole country into a sea of joy. 24 years ago, we used to be just as happy with tears when Xu Haifeng fired his winning shots.
The theme song of the Olympics is the song of breaking through, just because breakthroughs are more important than gold medals. Gold medals are won through competing with others. They only represent personal achievements. But to make a breakthrough, is to ceaselessly challenge oneself. Breakthroughs mesh better with the Olympic slogan “faster, higher, and stronger” than winning gold medals.
By People's Daily Online
Nepali 3rd largest CA party not to take oath Friday
Ministers from the third largest party in the Constituent Assembly , the Communist Party of Nepal will not take the oath of office and secrecy on Friday.
Due to dispute with the Communist Party of Nepal , over who should be the senior-most minister after Prime Minister and CPN-M Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal Puspa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" in the to-be-formed cabinet, the CPN-UML will not be sworn in on Friday, Krishna Bahadur Mahara, senior leader of the CPN-M told reporters on Friday afternoon.
However, Mahara believed the CPN-UML will join the cabinet and the dispute will be solved "after Prachanda comes back from China鈥�to participate in the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics.
On Friday, a cabinet with four ministers from the CPN-M and another four from the Madhesi People's Rights Forum will take the oath, Mahara informed.
On last Friday, the CPN-UML and the fourth largest CA party MPRF jointly voted Prachanda for the post of prime minister, together with most of the other minor CA parties.
On Friday morning, the CPN-UML has just nominated its ministers for the first Nepali republican cabinet to be formed. The team is to be led by its Standing Committee Member Bamdev Gautam as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
The party has also decided to send Bishnu Paudel for Ministry of Water Resources portfolio, Kiran Gurung for Forest and Soil Conservation, Gopal Shakya in Youth and Sports and Ram Chandra Jhain Local Development and Astalaxmi Shakya in Industry and Commerce.
An agreement has been reached between the major partners of power that the CPN-UML will get the home ministry, local development, forest, water resources, youth and sports, and industry and commerce in the new cabinet of the republican Nepal led by Prime Minister and Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal Puspa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda".
Source: Xinhua
Due to dispute with the Communist Party of Nepal , over who should be the senior-most minister after Prime Minister and CPN-M Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal Puspa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" in the to-be-formed cabinet, the CPN-UML will not be sworn in on Friday, Krishna Bahadur Mahara, senior leader of the CPN-M told reporters on Friday afternoon.
However, Mahara believed the CPN-UML will join the cabinet and the dispute will be solved "after Prachanda comes back from China鈥�to participate in the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics.
On Friday, a cabinet with four ministers from the CPN-M and another four from the Madhesi People's Rights Forum will take the oath, Mahara informed.
On last Friday, the CPN-UML and the fourth largest CA party MPRF jointly voted Prachanda for the post of prime minister, together with most of the other minor CA parties.
On Friday morning, the CPN-UML has just nominated its ministers for the first Nepali republican cabinet to be formed. The team is to be led by its Standing Committee Member Bamdev Gautam as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
The party has also decided to send Bishnu Paudel for Ministry of Water Resources portfolio, Kiran Gurung for Forest and Soil Conservation, Gopal Shakya in Youth and Sports and Ram Chandra Jhain Local Development and Astalaxmi Shakya in Industry and Commerce.
An agreement has been reached between the major partners of power that the CPN-UML will get the home ministry, local development, forest, water resources, youth and sports, and industry and commerce in the new cabinet of the republican Nepal led by Prime Minister and Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal Puspa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda".
Source: Xinhua
Merkel watches Olympic events over TV
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has so far watched various events of Beijing Olympics over television, German government spokesman Thomas Steg said on Friday.
Speaking to a press confernce, Steg said the Olympiad always boasts of special charm and fascination, adding that "it is the biggest sporting spectacle of the world."
According to the spokesman, Merkel herself had watched various events of the Beijing Games over television whenever she got the chances, noting that Merkel was particularly pleased with the two gold medals won by German canoeists.
The German government hoped that the Olympic Games could become an "impetus" for the modernization process in China, said Steg.
German has sent a big delegation to the Beijing Olympiad which consist of some 440 athletes, the biggest one from Western Europe.
By Friday, the German delegation has won 14 golds, 9 silvers and 13 bronzes, ranking the fifth at the gold medal standings.
With just two days to go for the closing of the Games, Steg said the German government was "satisfied" with the result although there were "surprises" and "disappointments."
Source: Xinhua
Speaking to a press confernce, Steg said the Olympiad always boasts of special charm and fascination, adding that "it is the biggest sporting spectacle of the world."
According to the spokesman, Merkel herself had watched various events of the Beijing Games over television whenever she got the chances, noting that Merkel was particularly pleased with the two gold medals won by German canoeists.
The German government hoped that the Olympic Games could become an "impetus" for the modernization process in China, said Steg.
German has sent a big delegation to the Beijing Olympiad which consist of some 440 athletes, the biggest one from Western Europe.
By Friday, the German delegation has won 14 golds, 9 silvers and 13 bronzes, ranking the fifth at the gold medal standings.
With just two days to go for the closing of the Games, Steg said the German government was "satisfied" with the result although there were "surprises" and "disappointments."
Source: Xinhua
70 pct Chinese plan trips after Olympics: survey
Seventy percent of Chinese plan to travel around the country or abroad after the Olympic Games, an on-line survey has found.
The latest survey, by China's leading on-line travel agent Ctrip, was conducted among 1,000 respondents nationwide.
August has been the traditional peak season for China's tourism industry. However, this August many people have chosen to stay at home to watch the Olympic Games and postponed their travel plans. Ctrip said that accounted for the high percentage of people intending to travel after the Games.
The survey said that among the respondents, more than 50 percent chose long-distance domestic destinations, more than 30 percent favored short-distance tours and over 10 percent said they would go abroad.
Among the domestic destinations, Olympic co-host cites are people's favorites, with nearly 60 percent choosing Beijing, followed by Hong Kong, Qingdao, Shanghai, Qinhuangdao, Shenyang and Tianjin.
The Beijing Olympic Games run from Aug. 8 through 24.
Source: Xinhua
The latest survey, by China's leading on-line travel agent Ctrip, was conducted among 1,000 respondents nationwide.
August has been the traditional peak season for China's tourism industry. However, this August many people have chosen to stay at home to watch the Olympic Games and postponed their travel plans. Ctrip said that accounted for the high percentage of people intending to travel after the Games.
The survey said that among the respondents, more than 50 percent chose long-distance domestic destinations, more than 30 percent favored short-distance tours and over 10 percent said they would go abroad.
Among the domestic destinations, Olympic co-host cites are people's favorites, with nearly 60 percent choosing Beijing, followed by Hong Kong, Qingdao, Shanghai, Qinhuangdao, Shenyang and Tianjin.
The Beijing Olympic Games run from Aug. 8 through 24.
Source: Xinhua
Beckham, Jimmy Page in Beijing Olympic handover to 2012 Games
Footballer David Beckham, British singer Leona Lewis and guitarist Jimmy Page will appear in an eight-minute segment in the Olympic handover to London 2012 at the closing ceremony of the Beijing Games, said the London Olympics organizer on Friday.
Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012, told a press conference here that the segment in the closing ceremony on Sunday would be "young and vibrant."
It will "show the cultural diversity, the great city of London, modern and contemporary dances and elements of Olympics and Paralympics."
The eight-minute contribution to the finale was said to cost 2 million pounds . Beckham will arrive on a red double-decker bus, according to earlier media reports.
Source: Xinhua
Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012, told a press conference here that the segment in the closing ceremony on Sunday would be "young and vibrant."
It will "show the cultural diversity, the great city of London, modern and contemporary dances and elements of Olympics and Paralympics."
The eight-minute contribution to the finale was said to cost 2 million pounds . Beckham will arrive on a red double-decker bus, according to earlier media reports.
Source: Xinhua
Survey: Two-thirds Asia Pacific people awaiting Olympics closing ceremony
About two-thirds of people across Asia Pacific are eagerly awaiting the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, almost the same high anticipation as for the opening ceremony, according to a Visa survey released on Friday.
Of the 4,315 people from the region who said they would watch the Games, 63 percent said they would be watching the closing ceremony, said the survey conducted between March and April with 4,556 people from nine Asia Pacific countries and regions.
The opening ceremony was a resounding success, with an estimated four billion people tuning in to watch. The survey found the closing ceremony holds the same appeal.
People from countries and territories across the region are looking forward to the fanfare of the closing ceremony. It is the second most popular event at the Games for 87 percent of Malaysians and 78 percent of Indians, ranking even higher in popularity than other events and sports at the competition.
The final event of the Games is among the top three Olympic Games events for Australians , and Hong Kongers , and the fourth most popular event for Koreans , New Zealanders , and Singaporeans , showed the survey.
Source: Xinhua
Of the 4,315 people from the region who said they would watch the Games, 63 percent said they would be watching the closing ceremony, said the survey conducted between March and April with 4,556 people from nine Asia Pacific countries and regions.
The opening ceremony was a resounding success, with an estimated four billion people tuning in to watch. The survey found the closing ceremony holds the same appeal.
People from countries and territories across the region are looking forward to the fanfare of the closing ceremony. It is the second most popular event at the Games for 87 percent of Malaysians and 78 percent of Indians, ranking even higher in popularity than other events and sports at the competition.
The final event of the Games is among the top three Olympic Games events for Australians , and Hong Kongers , and the fourth most popular event for Koreans , New Zealanders , and Singaporeans , showed the survey.
Source: Xinhua
Preview: Canada's kayaker van Koeverden eyes title defence
Adam van Koeverden of Canada is looking forward to retaining his title in the men's kayak single 500 meters on Saturday, the second and final day of canoeing flatwater competitions at the Beijing Games.
Van Koeverden is a strong favorite for the K1 500 meters race. He has been unbeaten so far this season and beat his own world best to set a new one in the heat. Tim Brabants of Britain, who won the K1 1,000m gold on Friday, and Eirik Larsen of Norway will be his main rivals.
In the men's canoe single 500m, Attila Sandor Vajda of Hungary will seek his second gold medal at Beijing Games after claiming the C1 1,000m title on Friday. He will be pushed hard by Athens silver medalist David Cal of Spain. Cal failed to retain his title in the C1 1,000m with a second finish.
In the women's kayak single 500m, Katalin Kovas of Hungary will be out to claim the only major gold medal not already in her trophy cabinet. Her major rivals will be Katrin Wanger-Augustin of Germany and Josefa Iden of Italy. China's Zhong Hongyan could also stand on the podium
In men's kayak double 500m, Germany's Ronald Rauhe and Tim Wieskotter is the strong favorite. Belarus, Spain, France, and Italy are the main opponents after staging good performances in the heats.
In the men's C2 500m, Chinese crew Yang Wenjun and Meng Guanliang was the main gold medal contender. They finished first in two heats and got their title defence to a strong start on Tuesday. Russia, Germany, and Belarus could have a podium finish.
In the women's K2 500m, Katalin Kovas and Natasa Janic will be aiming at the title, but they will be challenged by world champions Fanny Fischer and Nicole Reinhardt. Poland or France could win a medal.
Source: Xinhua
Van Koeverden is a strong favorite for the K1 500 meters race. He has been unbeaten so far this season and beat his own world best to set a new one in the heat. Tim Brabants of Britain, who won the K1 1,000m gold on Friday, and Eirik Larsen of Norway will be his main rivals.
In the men's canoe single 500m, Attila Sandor Vajda of Hungary will seek his second gold medal at Beijing Games after claiming the C1 1,000m title on Friday. He will be pushed hard by Athens silver medalist David Cal of Spain. Cal failed to retain his title in the C1 1,000m with a second finish.
In the women's kayak single 500m, Katalin Kovas of Hungary will be out to claim the only major gold medal not already in her trophy cabinet. Her major rivals will be Katrin Wanger-Augustin of Germany and Josefa Iden of Italy. China's Zhong Hongyan could also stand on the podium
In men's kayak double 500m, Germany's Ronald Rauhe and Tim Wieskotter is the strong favorite. Belarus, Spain, France, and Italy are the main opponents after staging good performances in the heats.
In the men's C2 500m, Chinese crew Yang Wenjun and Meng Guanliang was the main gold medal contender. They finished first in two heats and got their title defence to a strong start on Tuesday. Russia, Germany, and Belarus could have a podium finish.
In the women's K2 500m, Katalin Kovas and Natasa Janic will be aiming at the title, but they will be challenged by world champions Fanny Fischer and Nicole Reinhardt. Poland or France could win a medal.
Source: Xinhua
Brazil leads Belgium 2-0 at halftime
Brazil led Belgium 2-0 in the first half of their Olympic men's football bronze medal match on Friday.
The match began with 20 minutes' stalemate, in which Belgium offensive performed slightly better. Brazilian big names seemed unlucky, with Ronaldinho yellow carded for faking a fall in minute 26, followed by an offside bicycle kick in minute 7.
Diego scored the first goal at Rafinha's cross in the 28th minute. Surprising enough, the goal didn't drive Brazil toward a more Brazilian way. During the rest of the first half, they kept less lively, leaving a series of opportunities to Belgium near the net.
However, Belgium forwards, more active but less experienced, failed to grasp the chances.
In the 44th minute, after several rounds of dull passings among Brazil defenders, Jo scored their second goal with a nice header.
Brazil beat Belgium 1-0 in their first group game. Before Beijing Games, the two teams have met only once in a major international tournament, with Brazil defeating Belgium 2-0 in the first-stage elimination round of the 2002 World Cup, a tournament that Brazil eventually won.
Source: Xinhua
The match began with 20 minutes' stalemate, in which Belgium offensive performed slightly better. Brazilian big names seemed unlucky, with Ronaldinho yellow carded for faking a fall in minute 26, followed by an offside bicycle kick in minute 7.
Diego scored the first goal at Rafinha's cross in the 28th minute. Surprising enough, the goal didn't drive Brazil toward a more Brazilian way. During the rest of the first half, they kept less lively, leaving a series of opportunities to Belgium near the net.
However, Belgium forwards, more active but less experienced, failed to grasp the chances.
In the 44th minute, after several rounds of dull passings among Brazil defenders, Jo scored their second goal with a nice header.
Brazil beat Belgium 1-0 in their first group game. Before Beijing Games, the two teams have met only once in a major international tournament, with Brazil defeating Belgium 2-0 in the first-stage elimination round of the 2002 World Cup, a tournament that Brazil eventually won.
Source: Xinhua
Defending champion Croatia shut out of the final at men's handball
Highly favored reigning champion Croatia was dethroned after conceding 23-25 to France in the semifinals of Beijing Olympic men's handball tournament on Friday.
French right back Cedric Burdet ignited the team with five goals from five shots in the first half, giving the fifth placer at Athens a 12-11 lead by the break. And center back Daniel Narcisse netted in six points in the second half, including two in the final minutes to seal the final berth for France.
Talking about his last goal, Narcisse appeared excited. "It was a flying jump shot. We had trouble getting past the Croatian defence, but we had guys who could jump over them."
"We knew the game would be tough. Defence is the key to our victory. We could have enjoyed an easier win but for the nerves from the semifinals and some slapdash shots during the match,"said French coach Claude Onesta in a post-match conference.
The tight match witnessed seventeen draws from the two sides and came to a deadlock with six minutes on the clock, when France led 24-22 and no team managed a goal in the following five minutes.
Narcisse's diving shot broke the deadlock and widened the gap to three goals, while left wing Goran Sprem's last minute goal was too late to save the Croats.
"It's unbelievable. We're in the final and we're sure to get a medal. We knew we played good, especially today, we played good defence on the ball. And we were fast on the breaks. It was just so beautiful," said French star left back Karabatic, newly elected IHF World Handball Player of the Year in 2007.
Participating in Olympic Games twice and winning two gold medals in 1996 and 2004, Croatia is the most efficient team in Olympic history. However, their legend ended in Beijing and they have to fight for the bronze against the winner of the match between Iceland and Spain.
Source: Xinhua
French right back Cedric Burdet ignited the team with five goals from five shots in the first half, giving the fifth placer at Athens a 12-11 lead by the break. And center back Daniel Narcisse netted in six points in the second half, including two in the final minutes to seal the final berth for France.
Talking about his last goal, Narcisse appeared excited. "It was a flying jump shot. We had trouble getting past the Croatian defence, but we had guys who could jump over them."
"We knew the game would be tough. Defence is the key to our victory. We could have enjoyed an easier win but for the nerves from the semifinals and some slapdash shots during the match,"said French coach Claude Onesta in a post-match conference.
The tight match witnessed seventeen draws from the two sides and came to a deadlock with six minutes on the clock, when France led 24-22 and no team managed a goal in the following five minutes.
Narcisse's diving shot broke the deadlock and widened the gap to three goals, while left wing Goran Sprem's last minute goal was too late to save the Croats.
"It's unbelievable. We're in the final and we're sure to get a medal. We knew we played good, especially today, we played good defence on the ball. And we were fast on the breaks. It was just so beautiful," said French star left back Karabatic, newly elected IHF World Handball Player of the Year in 2007.
Participating in Olympic Games twice and winning two gold medals in 1996 and 2004, Croatia is the most efficient team in Olympic history. However, their legend ended in Beijing and they have to fight for the bronze against the winner of the match between Iceland and Spain.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Premier meets Lithuanian prime minister
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Saturday hailed the role of sports in promoting international friendship in a meeting with Prime Minister of Lithuania Gediminas Kirkilas.
"The Chinese men's basketball team is led by a Lithuanian coach, and also many coaches from China are working in other countries. This shows that sports can go beyond borders and promote the friendship between peoples of different countries," Wen told Kirkilas who is here to watch the Beijing Olympic Games and attend the closing ceremony.
He said the Chinese men's basketball team's performance at the games is approved by the Chinese people, and he is also interested in the matches of the Lithuanian basketball team.
He welcomed Kirkilas to watch the Beijing Olympic Games and to attend the closing ceremony, saying he believes the Beijing Games has indeed shown the Olympic aim of friendship, unity and peace.
Hailing the smooth development of China-Lithuania relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties, Wen said China appreciated Lithuania's adherence to the one-China policy.
He said China will strengthen high-level exchanges with Lithuania to jointly promote bilateral ties based on the principle of mutual respect, mutual benefits and win-win results.
Kirkilas congratulated Wen and China for hosting a "very successful" Olympic Games, and praised the "very successful performance" of the Chinese athletes.
He said the organization of Beijing Olympic Games is excellent, the Chinese people are very friendly and Beijing is filled with the Olympic spirit.
"China has set a very high standard for the Olympic Games," he said.
He said Lithuania is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields and coordination in international affairs, and he hoped both sides would take the 2009 Europe-Asia transportation ministers meeting in Lithuania as an opportunity to further promote bilateral cooperation.
Source: Xinhua
"The Chinese men's basketball team is led by a Lithuanian coach, and also many coaches from China are working in other countries. This shows that sports can go beyond borders and promote the friendship between peoples of different countries," Wen told Kirkilas who is here to watch the Beijing Olympic Games and attend the closing ceremony.
He said the Chinese men's basketball team's performance at the games is approved by the Chinese people, and he is also interested in the matches of the Lithuanian basketball team.
He welcomed Kirkilas to watch the Beijing Olympic Games and to attend the closing ceremony, saying he believes the Beijing Games has indeed shown the Olympic aim of friendship, unity and peace.
Hailing the smooth development of China-Lithuania relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties, Wen said China appreciated Lithuania's adherence to the one-China policy.
He said China will strengthen high-level exchanges with Lithuania to jointly promote bilateral ties based on the principle of mutual respect, mutual benefits and win-win results.
Kirkilas congratulated Wen and China for hosting a "very successful" Olympic Games, and praised the "very successful performance" of the Chinese athletes.
He said the organization of Beijing Olympic Games is excellent, the Chinese people are very friendly and Beijing is filled with the Olympic spirit.
"China has set a very high standard for the Olympic Games," he said.
He said Lithuania is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields and coordination in international affairs, and he hoped both sides would take the 2009 Europe-Asia transportation ministers meeting in Lithuania as an opportunity to further promote bilateral cooperation.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Premier meets Belgian Prime Minister
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met here Saturday morning with Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme, who is here to attend the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games and other relevant activities.
Wen congratulated the Belgian delegation to the Beijing Games for winning a silver medal in Friday's women's 4x100m relay, saying this medal was won with hard efforts.
Leterme said the Belgian delegation has met difficulties to win medals and this medal is a breakthrough, adding he hoped the Belgian delegation would continue to win medals.
Wen said one of the important principles of the Olympiad is that participation is the most important thing, adding China is glad the the successful Beijing Olympic Games has provided a platform for friendly exchanges between the world people.
Leterme said the Beijing Olympic Games is perfect and has impressed him a lot, adding the excellent organization of the games reflects China's great ability to organize international grand events like the Olympics.
Source: Xinhua
Wen congratulated the Belgian delegation to the Beijing Games for winning a silver medal in Friday's women's 4x100m relay, saying this medal was won with hard efforts.
Leterme said the Belgian delegation has met difficulties to win medals and this medal is a breakthrough, adding he hoped the Belgian delegation would continue to win medals.
Wen said one of the important principles of the Olympiad is that participation is the most important thing, adding China is glad the the successful Beijing Olympic Games has provided a platform for friendly exchanges between the world people.
Leterme said the Beijing Olympic Games is perfect and has impressed him a lot, adding the excellent organization of the games reflects China's great ability to organize international grand events like the Olympics.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Premier meets U.S. Secretary of Labor
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met here Saturday morning with a U.S. government delegation to the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games, headed by Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.
Wen expressed his welcome to the delegation's visit, saying it has shown the importance attached by the United States as the U.S. President George W. Bush and his family attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics and the U.S. government also sent officials to attend the closing ceremony.
"It is also an embodiment of China-U.S. friendly cooperation," he added.
He congratulated the U.S. athletes' good performance at the Olympic Games, saying the total number of U.S. delegation's medals is till ranked in the first place.
Chao conveyed Bush's greetings to Wen, and expressed sympathy to the victims and families in the May 12 earthquake in China's Sichuan Province, saying "our heart is still with them,"
Source: Xinhua
Wen expressed his welcome to the delegation's visit, saying it has shown the importance attached by the United States as the U.S. President George W. Bush and his family attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics and the U.S. government also sent officials to attend the closing ceremony.
"It is also an embodiment of China-U.S. friendly cooperation," he added.
He congratulated the U.S. athletes' good performance at the Olympic Games, saying the total number of U.S. delegation's medals is till ranked in the first place.
Chao conveyed Bush's greetings to Wen, and expressed sympathy to the victims and families in the May 12 earthquake in China's Sichuan Province, saying "our heart is still with them,"
Source: Xinhua
Typhoon Nuri forces 160,000 to evacuate
Nearly 160,000 people in 13 coastal cities in Guangdong were evacuated Friday after Typhoon Nuri, the strongest this year, hit the southern province.
The provincial observatory issued a Class-I warning - the highest level - before the tropical cyclone landed in Hong Kong at 5 pm Friday, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. But it inflicted little damage.
Sources with the Guangdong provincial flood control center said more than 45,000 vessels working at sea had been recalled before Nuri hit.
Nuri, which packed gale force 12 at its center, weakened into a tropical storm after its landfall and was moving northwest around 14 km an hour, the Hong Kong Observatory said.
The Guangdong provincial weather bureau said Nuri will bring torrential rains in the coming days to Hong Kong, Guangdong, Hainan and the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.
In Shenzhen, which neighbors Hong Kong, more than 40,000 trees were toppled by strong gales. As of 6 pm Friday, more than 20 injuries had been reported in the city, but there were no reports of any casualties, Shenzhen Emergency Center said.
Train services in Shenzhen were not affected but passenger bus services were all suspended. The Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport suspended almost all flights.
In Guangzhou, construction of the 499-m Guangzhou TV Tower, the tallest building in the city, was suspended. Subway services on the Huangge-Jinzhou section of Line 4 were also closed.
In Hong Kong, the observatory issued its second-highest tropical cyclone warning. Eight people suffered light injuries, the government said. There were also reports of toppled trees, collapsed walls and scaffolding.
Flights, bus and ferry services were canceled, and offices, schools and financial markets were closed. As of 2 pm Friday, at least 308 passenger flights had been canceled or delayed while nine flights were diverted, according to the Hong Kong Airport Authority.
The Home Affairs Department has opened 26 temporary shelters in various districts.
Source: China Daily
The provincial observatory issued a Class-I warning - the highest level - before the tropical cyclone landed in Hong Kong at 5 pm Friday, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. But it inflicted little damage.
Sources with the Guangdong provincial flood control center said more than 45,000 vessels working at sea had been recalled before Nuri hit.
Nuri, which packed gale force 12 at its center, weakened into a tropical storm after its landfall and was moving northwest around 14 km an hour, the Hong Kong Observatory said.
The Guangdong provincial weather bureau said Nuri will bring torrential rains in the coming days to Hong Kong, Guangdong, Hainan and the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.
In Shenzhen, which neighbors Hong Kong, more than 40,000 trees were toppled by strong gales. As of 6 pm Friday, more than 20 injuries had been reported in the city, but there were no reports of any casualties, Shenzhen Emergency Center said.
Train services in Shenzhen were not affected but passenger bus services were all suspended. The Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport suspended almost all flights.
In Guangzhou, construction of the 499-m Guangzhou TV Tower, the tallest building in the city, was suspended. Subway services on the Huangge-Jinzhou section of Line 4 were also closed.
In Hong Kong, the observatory issued its second-highest tropical cyclone warning. Eight people suffered light injuries, the government said. There were also reports of toppled trees, collapsed walls and scaffolding.
Flights, bus and ferry services were canceled, and offices, schools and financial markets were closed. As of 2 pm Friday, at least 308 passenger flights had been canceled or delayed while nine flights were diverted, according to the Hong Kong Airport Authority.
The Home Affairs Department has opened 26 temporary shelters in various districts.
Source: China Daily
Drowsy driver under detention for bus crash killing two Russian tourists in NE China
Drowsy driving was found to have caused the bus crash, in which two Russian tourists were killed and several others injured in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province early on Friday, according to the police's interrogation of the bus driver.
The bus driver, who was under police detention, admitted that he was sleepy while driving.
The bus carrying 22 Russian tourists veered and overturned at across road of Tielinghe Town of Mudanjiang City at about 4:40 a.m., five hours after the driver drove in dark from Hunchun City in Jilin Province to the border city of Suifenhe in Heilongjiang, where the tourists would finish their China tour and go back to Russia.
The long-distance trip was supposed to have two drivers drive in rotations. However, there was only one driver on the tourist bus, said the police.
The injured were taken to hospital immediately.
The accident is still under investigation.
Source: Xinhua
The bus driver, who was under police detention, admitted that he was sleepy while driving.
The bus carrying 22 Russian tourists veered and overturned at across road of Tielinghe Town of Mudanjiang City at about 4:40 a.m., five hours after the driver drove in dark from Hunchun City in Jilin Province to the border city of Suifenhe in Heilongjiang, where the tourists would finish their China tour and go back to Russia.
The long-distance trip was supposed to have two drivers drive in rotations. However, there was only one driver on the tourist bus, said the police.
The injured were taken to hospital immediately.
The accident is still under investigation.
Source: Xinhua
Macao's traffic resumes after Typhoon Nuri sweeps away
The Macao Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau lowered all strong wind signals at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, as Typhoon Nuri moved further away from the island city.
According to the SMG, Nuri has edged further northwest toward Guangzhou, capital of China's southern Guangdong province, at a velocity of 12 km per hour, and was over 100 km away from Macao this morning.
As the weather conditions enhanced, local land, air and sea traffic was back in operations. The three bridges connecting the Macao Peninsula and the Taipa Island were open to local vehicles again after their temporary shutdown Friday when the SMG hoisted the strong wind signal No. 8.
Local bus service and ferry service linking Macao to Hong Kong resumed operations this morning as well, while flights at the Macao International Airport started boarding this morning following Friday's cancellation or delay, according the information posted on the Airport's website.
During Friday's storm, some 62 minor accidents were reported, most of which involved falling objects, such as advertising signs, iron sheets and aluminum windows, from a height, and three civilians were injured in these accidents, according to the city's Civil Defense Center.
In addition, 14 civilians took shelter in the refuge center provided by the Special Administration Region government Friday.
Source: Xinhua
According to the SMG, Nuri has edged further northwest toward Guangzhou, capital of China's southern Guangdong province, at a velocity of 12 km per hour, and was over 100 km away from Macao this morning.
As the weather conditions enhanced, local land, air and sea traffic was back in operations. The three bridges connecting the Macao Peninsula and the Taipa Island were open to local vehicles again after their temporary shutdown Friday when the SMG hoisted the strong wind signal No. 8.
Local bus service and ferry service linking Macao to Hong Kong resumed operations this morning as well, while flights at the Macao International Airport started boarding this morning following Friday's cancellation or delay, according the information posted on the Airport's website.
During Friday's storm, some 62 minor accidents were reported, most of which involved falling objects, such as advertising signs, iron sheets and aluminum windows, from a height, and three civilians were injured in these accidents, according to the city's Civil Defense Center.
In addition, 14 civilians took shelter in the refuge center provided by the Special Administration Region government Friday.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese Premier meets U.S. presidential delegation
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met here Saturday morning with a U.S. presidential delegation to the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games, headed by Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao and Secretary of Health Michael O. Leavitt.
Wen expressed his welcome to the delegation's visit, saying it has shown the importance attached by the United States as the U.S. President George W. Bush and his family attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics and the U.S. government also sent officials to attend the closing ceremony.
"It is also an embodiment of China-U.S. friendly cooperation," he added.
He congratulated the U.S. athletes' good performance at the Olympic Games, saying the total number of U.S. delegation's medals is till ranked in the first place.
Chao and Leavitt conveyed Bush's greetings to Wen, and expressed sympathy to the victims and families in the May 12 earthquake in China's Sichuan Province, saying "our heart is still with them,"
They said the Beijing Olympic Games has given the U.S. people a new understanding of China.
Wen called on the two sides to firmly adhere to the general direction of constructive cooperation in bilateral ties, and steadfastly pursue common interests to continuously strengthen mutual trust and cooperation and properly handle differences and sensitive issues.
He said exchanges and cooperation in social security, medicine and health, and inspection and quarantine are important aspects of China-U.S. ties. The two sides should learn from each other in these fields to better protect people's health and promote social welfare.
Chao and Leavitt said that the U.S. and China should further strengthen cooperation and exchanges, expressing hope that the two countries can gain more fruits in the cooperation on labor, social security, health and food safety.
Source: Xinhua
Wen expressed his welcome to the delegation's visit, saying it has shown the importance attached by the United States as the U.S. President George W. Bush and his family attended the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics and the U.S. government also sent officials to attend the closing ceremony.
"It is also an embodiment of China-U.S. friendly cooperation," he added.
He congratulated the U.S. athletes' good performance at the Olympic Games, saying the total number of U.S. delegation's medals is till ranked in the first place.
Chao and Leavitt conveyed Bush's greetings to Wen, and expressed sympathy to the victims and families in the May 12 earthquake in China's Sichuan Province, saying "our heart is still with them,"
They said the Beijing Olympic Games has given the U.S. people a new understanding of China.
Wen called on the two sides to firmly adhere to the general direction of constructive cooperation in bilateral ties, and steadfastly pursue common interests to continuously strengthen mutual trust and cooperation and properly handle differences and sensitive issues.
He said exchanges and cooperation in social security, medicine and health, and inspection and quarantine are important aspects of China-U.S. ties. The two sides should learn from each other in these fields to better protect people's health and promote social welfare.
Chao and Leavitt said that the U.S. and China should further strengthen cooperation and exchanges, expressing hope that the two countries can gain more fruits in the cooperation on labor, social security, health and food safety.
Source: Xinhua
China sees tax revenue up 13.8% in July, but corporate income tax down
China's revenue on corporate income declined 4.2 percent in July from the same month of last year, with total tax revenue up 13.8 percent year-on-year, the Ministry of Finance said on Friday.
Last month, China collected 149.635 billion yuan in corporate income tax, down 4.2 percent from a year earlier. The decline was attributed partly to a drastic slowdown in growth of corporate earnings.
Earlier data showed that between January and May, major industrial enterprises nationwide saw their profits up 20.9 percent year on year, 21.2 percentage points lower than the year-earlier level. Of them, petrochemical, power, nonferrous metal and oil companies suffered profit declines of 79.65 percent, 79.01 percent, 17.95 percent and 16.26 percent respectively.
According to the ministry, tax revenue totaled 532.325 billion yuan nationwide in July, up 13.8 percent over the same month of last year. The growth rate was 19.3 percentage points lower than the year-earlier level, due partly to efforts to cool down the economy and curb inflation.
Source: Xinhua
Last month, China collected 149.635 billion yuan in corporate income tax, down 4.2 percent from a year earlier. The decline was attributed partly to a drastic slowdown in growth of corporate earnings.
Earlier data showed that between January and May, major industrial enterprises nationwide saw their profits up 20.9 percent year on year, 21.2 percentage points lower than the year-earlier level. Of them, petrochemical, power, nonferrous metal and oil companies suffered profit declines of 79.65 percent, 79.01 percent, 17.95 percent and 16.26 percent respectively.
According to the ministry, tax revenue totaled 532.325 billion yuan nationwide in July, up 13.8 percent over the same month of last year. The growth rate was 19.3 percentage points lower than the year-earlier level, due partly to efforts to cool down the economy and curb inflation.
Source: Xinhua
China's first commercial nuclear power plant installed steam generator for expansion
Workers on Friday hoisted a 335-tonne steam generator into place over the underground workshop of the Qinshan nuclear power complex, the first commercial nuclear power facility in China.
The steam generator is a heat exchanger used to convert water into steam from heat produced in a nuclear reactor core, and is used in pressurized water reactors between the primary and secondary coolant loops, said Yang Lanhe, General Manager of the China Nuclear Power Qinshan Joint Venture Co.Ltd., the investor of the second phase of the Qinshan complex.
This step cleared the way for installation of two 650,000 kw pressurized water reactors at the nuclear complex, which is in Haiyan, on the northern coast of Hangzhou Bay, in the country's eastern Zhejiang Province.
Yang said that the Qinshan complex has three phases, each featuring different types of reactor. The second phase involves the plant where work was done on Friday.
The phase two now has two functioning 650,000-kw units that began generating power in 2002 and 2004, respectively. And the expansion of phase two will involve the installation of other two 650,000-kw pressurized reactors, which kicked off in April 2006.
"When all four units are in operation, the second phase will be able to produce 18-20 billion kwh of electricity a year," said Yang adding that it will be fully completed and start power generation in late 2011.
The first phase of the Qinshan facility was also the first nuclear power plant on the mainland built independently by home engineers.
The facility started construction in 1985. The first phase featured a 300,000 kilowatt prototype reactor with a lifespan of 30 years, which went online in 1991. The first phase has so far generated 31 billion kwh of electricity and produced 9.6 billion yuan in revenue and paid 1.8 billion yuan in tax.
According to the country's long and mid-term development plan of nuclear power plants, China's nuclear power installed capacity will reach 40 million kw by 2020, and will generate 260-280 billion kwh electricity each year, accounting for four percent and six percent of the country's total, respectively.
China has Qinshan, Daya Bay, Lingao and Lianyungang Tianwan - four nuclear power stations with 11 generating sets and an installed capacity of nine million KW.
Source: Xinhua
The steam generator is a heat exchanger used to convert water into steam from heat produced in a nuclear reactor core, and is used in pressurized water reactors between the primary and secondary coolant loops, said Yang Lanhe, General Manager of the China Nuclear Power Qinshan Joint Venture Co.Ltd., the investor of the second phase of the Qinshan complex.
This step cleared the way for installation of two 650,000 kw pressurized water reactors at the nuclear complex, which is in Haiyan, on the northern coast of Hangzhou Bay, in the country's eastern Zhejiang Province.
Yang said that the Qinshan complex has three phases, each featuring different types of reactor. The second phase involves the plant where work was done on Friday.
The phase two now has two functioning 650,000-kw units that began generating power in 2002 and 2004, respectively. And the expansion of phase two will involve the installation of other two 650,000-kw pressurized reactors, which kicked off in April 2006.
"When all four units are in operation, the second phase will be able to produce 18-20 billion kwh of electricity a year," said Yang adding that it will be fully completed and start power generation in late 2011.
The first phase of the Qinshan facility was also the first nuclear power plant on the mainland built independently by home engineers.
The facility started construction in 1985. The first phase featured a 300,000 kilowatt prototype reactor with a lifespan of 30 years, which went online in 1991. The first phase has so far generated 31 billion kwh of electricity and produced 9.6 billion yuan in revenue and paid 1.8 billion yuan in tax.
According to the country's long and mid-term development plan of nuclear power plants, China's nuclear power installed capacity will reach 40 million kw by 2020, and will generate 260-280 billion kwh electricity each year, accounting for four percent and six percent of the country's total, respectively.
China has Qinshan, Daya Bay, Lingao and Lianyungang Tianwan - four nuclear power stations with 11 generating sets and an installed capacity of nine million KW.
Source: Xinhua
China securities watchdog raises refinancing threshold, dividend
China's securities watchdog on Friday announced to raise the refinancing threshold for listed companies. The move was to foster the long term investment environment and facilitate the sustainable and healthy development of the capital market.
"For those listed companies scheduled to refinance on the market, the dividend they pay to shareholders in the recent three years should be no less than 30 percent of its distributed profits," said the China Securities Regulatory Commission in a new administrative rule.
The dividend could be either in cash or stock. The previous setline was 20 percent.
The market watchdog also asked listed firms to reveal its cash dividend policies and previous cash dividend data to investors in their annual reports in a bid to improve transparency.
"The listed company should give reasons why it failed to pay cash dividends if it is able to and where the money goes," according to the rule.
Amid the broad decline of the A-share stock market, excess supply was a problem because "the unlocking of non-tradable shares and listed companies' insatiable demand for equity refinancing" meant there was a need for fresh capital. But "wary investors are broadly cashing in their shares," said Cao Honghui, a Chinese Academy of Social Sciences senior researcher.
The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index has shed more than 60 percent from its peak in mid October.
Zhai Peng, a Guotai Junan Securities analyst, said this new move would help to boost sluggish investors confidence.
However, some experts held the key concern of investors in the near future was still the unlocking of large amounts of non-tradable shares.
The CSRC also would seek public opinion on this new rule through Aug. 29. The public can voice their comments on the rules through email to csrcflb@csrc.gov.cn.
Source: Xinhua
"For those listed companies scheduled to refinance on the market, the dividend they pay to shareholders in the recent three years should be no less than 30 percent of its distributed profits," said the China Securities Regulatory Commission in a new administrative rule.
The dividend could be either in cash or stock. The previous setline was 20 percent.
The market watchdog also asked listed firms to reveal its cash dividend policies and previous cash dividend data to investors in their annual reports in a bid to improve transparency.
"The listed company should give reasons why it failed to pay cash dividends if it is able to and where the money goes," according to the rule.
Amid the broad decline of the A-share stock market, excess supply was a problem because "the unlocking of non-tradable shares and listed companies' insatiable demand for equity refinancing" meant there was a need for fresh capital. But "wary investors are broadly cashing in their shares," said Cao Honghui, a Chinese Academy of Social Sciences senior researcher.
The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index has shed more than 60 percent from its peak in mid October.
Zhai Peng, a Guotai Junan Securities analyst, said this new move would help to boost sluggish investors confidence.
However, some experts held the key concern of investors in the near future was still the unlocking of large amounts of non-tradable shares.
The CSRC also would seek public opinion on this new rule through Aug. 29. The public can voice their comments on the rules through email to csrcflb@csrc.gov.cn.
Source: Xinhua
26 miners confirmed dead in China colliery gas explosion
Chinese rescuers on Friday recovered the last four bodies of miners killed in a gas blast at a coal mine in northeast China, bringing the death toll to 26.
Eighty-one miners were working underground when the accident happened at about 8:50 a.m. on Monday in Baijiagou colliery in Liaoning Province, said Sun Shikui, head of the general hospital affiliated to the Tiefa coal industry group.
Eleven miners were injured in the accident, four of them were severely injured.
Family members of the 20 dead miners, whose bodies were already cremated, signed their named on the compensation agreements with the coal mine. The mine promised that each family will receive a minimum of 200,000 yuan as compensation.
The mine was opened in 1976. It was fully-licensed and has 450 employees. The mine produces 100,000 tons of coal a year.
Source: Xinhua
Eighty-one miners were working underground when the accident happened at about 8:50 a.m. on Monday in Baijiagou colliery in Liaoning Province, said Sun Shikui, head of the general hospital affiliated to the Tiefa coal industry group.
Eleven miners were injured in the accident, four of them were severely injured.
Family members of the 20 dead miners, whose bodies were already cremated, signed their named on the compensation agreements with the coal mine. The mine promised that each family will receive a minimum of 200,000 yuan as compensation.
The mine was opened in 1976. It was fully-licensed and has 450 employees. The mine produces 100,000 tons of coal a year.
Source: Xinhua
China provides $50,000 flood relief to Nepal
Chinese ambassador to Nepal Zheng Xianglin handed over 50,000 U.S. dollars of flood emergency relief to Nepal on Friday.
On behalf of the Red Cross Society of China, Ambassador Zheng Xianglin handed over the amount to the Red Cross Society of Nepal in Kathmandu.
Dev Ratna Dhakwa, Secretary General of the Red Cross Society of Nepal appreciated the aid provided by the Red Cross Society of China, and introduced the situation of the flood occurring in southern Nepal.
Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" said China giving a hand when Nepal is in need fully reflects the traditional friendship between the two countries.
Prime Minister Prachanda, on behalf of the government, on Thursday called on all the friendly countries and other international community to provide necessary cooperation in flood relief.
In the public appeal, the Prime Minister said the Nepali government was quite aggrieved from the misfortune and the painful situation created by full inundation of three Village Development Committees including Sripur, Haripur and Kusaha and four other VDCs partially submerged in Sunsari district, some 220 km southeast of Kathmandu, after the embankment of Saptakoshi River suddenly broke down, affecting more than 50,000 people while displacing thousands.
The appeal states that the terrific flood after the breaking of the embankment has swept away about 1,000 houses and crops in vast range of land, and thousands of houses have been affected besides the damage of many bridges and three km of the East-West highway, and at the same time drinking water supply and telephone lines were disrupted.
Source: Xinhua
On behalf of the Red Cross Society of China, Ambassador Zheng Xianglin handed over the amount to the Red Cross Society of Nepal in Kathmandu.
Dev Ratna Dhakwa, Secretary General of the Red Cross Society of Nepal appreciated the aid provided by the Red Cross Society of China, and introduced the situation of the flood occurring in southern Nepal.
Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" said China giving a hand when Nepal is in need fully reflects the traditional friendship between the two countries.
Prime Minister Prachanda, on behalf of the government, on Thursday called on all the friendly countries and other international community to provide necessary cooperation in flood relief.
In the public appeal, the Prime Minister said the Nepali government was quite aggrieved from the misfortune and the painful situation created by full inundation of three Village Development Committees including Sripur, Haripur and Kusaha and four other VDCs partially submerged in Sunsari district, some 220 km southeast of Kathmandu, after the embankment of Saptakoshi River suddenly broke down, affecting more than 50,000 people while displacing thousands.
The appeal states that the terrific flood after the breaking of the embankment has swept away about 1,000 houses and crops in vast range of land, and thousands of houses have been affected besides the damage of many bridges and three km of the East-West highway, and at the same time drinking water supply and telephone lines were disrupted.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese premier meets British prime minister
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao thanked Britain's support to the Beijing Olympic Games Friday afternoon in a meeting with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Wen said that to hold a successful Olympic Games needs both the efforts of the hosting country and the support from other countries in the world, and he should thank for the support of the British government.
He also expressed his wish that the next Olympic Games in London in 2012 would be a successful games of high standard, saying the Chinese government would also give its full support to the London Games.
He said China and Britain should strengthen cooperation on hosting the Olympic Games and take such cooperation as an opportunity to promote the cooperation in other fields.
Congratulating British athletes' remarkable performance at the Beijing Olympic Games, Wen said he would watch the British culture show at the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games.
Brown congratulated Wen for the "wonderful success" of the Beijing Olympic Games, saying the Games was excellent and billions of people around the world have witnessed both the growth of the Olympic movement and China's rapid development
He also congratulated the Chinese athletes for their success in "winning so many medals."
Source: Xinhua
Wen said that to hold a successful Olympic Games needs both the efforts of the hosting country and the support from other countries in the world, and he should thank for the support of the British government.
He also expressed his wish that the next Olympic Games in London in 2012 would be a successful games of high standard, saying the Chinese government would also give its full support to the London Games.
He said China and Britain should strengthen cooperation on hosting the Olympic Games and take such cooperation as an opportunity to promote the cooperation in other fields.
Congratulating British athletes' remarkable performance at the Beijing Olympic Games, Wen said he would watch the British culture show at the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games.
Brown congratulated Wen for the "wonderful success" of the Beijing Olympic Games, saying the Games was excellent and billions of people around the world have witnessed both the growth of the Olympic movement and China's rapid development
He also congratulated the Chinese athletes for their success in "winning so many medals."
Source: Xinhua
Top Chinese legislator meets Australian governor-general
China will work with Australia to increase cooperation and advance the bilateral relations, said top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo on Friday.
Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress , made the remarks in a meeting with Australian Governor-General Michael Jeffery, who was here on a visit to China for the upcoming closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games.
Wu welcomed Jeffery to the Games, and congratulated Jeffery on Australian athletes' outstanding performances at the Games.
Hailing the China-Australia relations, Wu said the two nations enjoy comprehensive and important common interests, and the present bilateral ties are in the best period of history.
China treats the relations with Australia from strategic height and long-term perspective, he said, noting that China is ready to work with Australia to enhance exchanges and cooperation in various fields.
Jeffery congratulated China on the great success of the Games and on Chinese athletes for their remarkable performances.
Australia values the relations with China, and adheres to the one-China policy, he said, hoping that the two nations would increase cooperation in economy, trade, energy, environment, education and culture, so as to jointly cope with the challenges faced by humankind.
Source: Xinhua
Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress , made the remarks in a meeting with Australian Governor-General Michael Jeffery, who was here on a visit to China for the upcoming closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games.
Wu welcomed Jeffery to the Games, and congratulated Jeffery on Australian athletes' outstanding performances at the Games.
Hailing the China-Australia relations, Wu said the two nations enjoy comprehensive and important common interests, and the present bilateral ties are in the best period of history.
China treats the relations with Australia from strategic height and long-term perspective, he said, noting that China is ready to work with Australia to enhance exchanges and cooperation in various fields.
Jeffery congratulated China on the great success of the Games and on Chinese athletes for their remarkable performances.
Australia values the relations with China, and adheres to the one-China policy, he said, hoping that the two nations would increase cooperation in economy, trade, energy, environment, education and culture, so as to jointly cope with the challenges faced by humankind.
Source: Xinhua
Chinese FM offers condolences to Pakistan over deadly terrorist bombings
Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Friday sent a message of condolence to his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi over Thursday's terrorist bombings in Pakistan, which caused a large number of deaths and injuries.
China condemns all forms of terrorism, Yang said in his message.
China will, as always, continue to support the efforts of the Pakistani government as well as its people in maintaining stability in the country, he added.
Yang also expressed deep condolences and sympathies to the victims of the deadly bombings and their families, as well as to those injured in the attacks.
As many as 76 people died and 110 others were injured in two suicide blasts Thursday in an arms factory in Pakistan's northeastern state of Punjab, state-run PTV reported.
The blasts occurred at two gates of the Pakistan Ordnance Factory in Wah Cantonment during a shift change, the report said.
Source: Xinhua
China condemns all forms of terrorism, Yang said in his message.
China will, as always, continue to support the efforts of the Pakistani government as well as its people in maintaining stability in the country, he added.
Yang also expressed deep condolences and sympathies to the victims of the deadly bombings and their families, as well as to those injured in the attacks.
As many as 76 people died and 110 others were injured in two suicide blasts Thursday in an arms factory in Pakistan's northeastern state of Punjab, state-run PTV reported.
The blasts occurred at two gates of the Pakistan Ordnance Factory in Wah Cantonment during a shift change, the report said.
Source: Xinhua
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