He Zhenliang

Excitement! That's the way to describe the feelings of He Zhengliang during the past two weeks.

Chinese athletes have scored impressive achievements at the Beijing Olympics. And the whole nation is immersing itself in the exuberance and joy of the grand sporting event.

What's more, IOC members say it was the right decision to choose Beijing as the host city of 2008 Olympics.

He says there is no higher praise than that.

He Zhenliang, Chairman of Culture & Education Council of IOC, said, "Former IOC Chairman Juan Antonio Samaranch likes to say 'the best Olympics in history'. Rogge says he's not going to use that. And he's pondering on what words can be used to describe the Beijing Olympics."

Athletes from around the world have shattered 38 world records and 77 Olympic records in Beijing. He Zhenliang says that's related to the excellent environment and hospitality the host nation has offered.

Chairman He said, "What do record-breaking performances reveal? Athletes feel happy and relaxed in the hospitable atmosphere. The condition for their training and contests are also good."

The eyes of the world have been upon the Beijing Olympics, offering the Chinese capital an enormous opportunity to present the city in a new light.

He Zhenliang says visitors feel the passion, development and constant changes of a dynamic Beijing.

He said, "What has impressed me most is that the world is changing its perception towards China. And China is embracing the world in a more open way."

He says this interaction is a key element in achieving global peace and progress into the future.

(CCTV August 25, 2008)