Chinese president enters Banquet hall with foreign leaders

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Photo taken on Aug. 8, 2008 shows the welcoming luncheon in honor  of world dignitaries who are here to attend the opening ceremony  of Beijing Olympic Games, hosted by Chinese President Hu Jintao,  in Beijing, China, Aug. 8, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

The Chinese president also said the Olympics is a grand sporting event, which also serves a platform for cultural exchanges. The Olympics help bring together people from different countries, ethnic groups and cultural backgrounds. The Olympic movement also helps enhance mutual understanding and friendship among all peoples

Hu Jintao, Chinese President, said, "The Beijing Olympics is an opportunity not only for China but also for the whole world. We should, through participating in the Olympics, carry forward the Olympic spirit of solidarity, friendship as well as peace, and also facilitate sincere exchanges among people from all countries."

Hu Jintao says it's a century-old dream and a shared aspiration for the Chinese nation to host the Olympics. Since Beijing won the bid in 2001, the Chinese government and people have worked earnestly to honor the country's commitment to the international community, guided by the concept of "green, high-tech and people's Olympics".

Hu Jintao, Chinese President, said, "I am confident that, with the support of the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Family, and together with you, China will deliver a high-quality Olympic Games with distinctive features."

At the end of his speech, President Hu Jintao proposed a toast to the dignitaries at the banquet, wishing the strong growth of the Olympic Movement as well as greater solidarity and friendship among people from all over the world.