Published: August 1st, 2008 08:31 EST
Hu Jintao wants politic-free Olympic Games
By SOP newswire
Chinese President Hu Jintao says the upcoming Beijing Olympics should not be turned into a political forum to express grievances over his country`s human rights record.
Speaking during a rare press conference with foreign reporters Friday, Mr. Hu says it is inevitable that people from different nations do not see eye-to-eye on issues. But the Chinese leader says inserting politics runs counter to the Olympic spirit.
Mr. Hu also says the Games will leave an economic and spiritual legacy in China for years to come.
He says China has utilized scientific and technological innovations, including solar power, in building the many Olympic venues and facilities.
But Mr. Hu says the most important legacy is that athletes from all over the world will have an arena to fulfill their dreams, enhance mutual understanding and mutual friendships.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP.
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