Jacques ROGGE - IOC President
"Mr. President of the People's Republic of China, Mr. LIU Qi,
Members of the Organising Committee, dear Chinese friends, dear
athletes:
"For a long time, China has dreamed of opening its doors and
inviting the world's athletes to Beijing for the Olympic Games.
Tonight that dream comes true. Congratulations, Beijing."
"You have chosen as the theme of these Games 'One World,
One Dream'. That is what we are tonight."
"As one world, we grieved with you over the tragic earthquake
in Sichuan Province. We were moved by the great courage and
solidarity of the Chinese people. As one dream, may these Olympic
Games bring you joy, hope and pride."
"Athletes, the Games were created for you by our founder,
Pierre de Coubertin. These Games belong to you. Let them be the
athletes' Games."
"Remember that they are about much more than performance
alone. They are about the peaceful gathering of 204 National
Olympic Committees - regardless of ethnic origin, gender, religion
or political system. Please compete in the spirit of the Olympic
values: excellence, friendship and respect."
"Dear athletes, remember that you are role models for the
youth of the world. Reject doping and cheating. Make us proud
of your achievements and your conduct."
"As we bring the Olympic dream to life, our warm thanks go
to the Beijing Organising Committee for its tireless work. Our
special thanks also go to the thousands of gracious volunteers,
without whom none of this would be possible."
"Beijing, you are a host to the present and a gateway to the
future. Thank you."
"I now have the honour of asking the President of the
People's Republic of China to open the Games of the XXIX
Olympiad of the modern era."