Former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke said here Wednesday that he will firmly and warmly support Beijing's Olympic bid and he is personally sure that Beijing will win the opportunity to host the 2008 Olympic Games.

Australian-Chinese and other Chinese living in Australia have formed a committee to support Beijing's bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games, said Hawke at a press briefing.

As the honorary chairman of the committee, Hawke affirmed that he will try his best to help Beijing gain success in the bid contest.

Hawke said that Chinese athletes performed outstandingly at the Sydney Olympic Games, which won the Australian people's ardent applause. He said that he believes that the Australian government will also support Beijing's bid.

If Beijing succeeds, it will offer a rare opportunity for the whole world to get to know China, Hawke added.

Hawke stressed that Beijing certainly has the capability, willingness and passion to host the Olympic Games if it wins the bid contest.

(People's Daily 04/12)