Olympic China Ignites Me

Being a Chinese in France, I have always welcomed news from the motherland. When I read an issue of the Chinese edition of China Today by chance during a visit back to China, I was over elated and excited, particularly with the column addressing the Olympics in China.

It's hard to believe that just a few years ago many foreigners thought China was still what it was a century ago. Though indignant, I felt helpless to change this misconception by myself.

This began to change since China's bid for the 2008 Olympic Games, when it illustrated to the world its splendid culture and long history, and the changes it has been undergoing. My foreign friends have since become interested in China, and many are eager to see the country. As an overseas Chinese I feel so proud of my home country.

The Olympic Games is not only a gala of sports but also an exhibition of state power. With this understanding overseas Chinese have been looking forward to seeing one hosted by China over the past decade. Now the dream is soon to be realized.

I am interested in and concerned with everything related to the 2008 Olympic Games. As your article says, when watching the event, one watches the growth and changes in China.

May I suggest that you include some articles on overseas Chinese's response to the event in the Olympic China column? If you would co-sponsor a campaign with Chinese-language media abroad to solicit contributions on what overseas Chinese think about the 2008 Olympics, I believe many people would happily participate.

Liu Qing

France