"Beijing is a city of the 21st century, it shows the future," said Quinterno."I had a very strong impression of how it changes month by month."

He hoped more and more cities could join Buenos Aires in throwing weight behind Beijing, one of the five candidates for the 2008 Olympics, added Quinterno.

"We made the first step and the idea is that the other cities follow," said Quinterno.

Quinterno, who visited Beijing almost once a month, did not shy away from the problems Beijing is confronted with.

"Of course Beijing has some problems with pollution and traffic, but we feel the struggle of people day by day, that is very important.

"We feel Beijing is working very hard. The enthusiasm of the Beijing people should be made known to the world," he said.

(People's Daily 12/19/2000)