Source: CCTV.com

09-14-2008 10:52

Special Report:   Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games

The Foreign Ministry hosted a ceremony for representatives from disabled groups on Saturday morning. Among them was Sichuan earthquake survivor Li Yue, who became known around the country following her performance at the Paralympic opening ceremony.

The Foreign Ministry hosted a ceremony for representatives from disabled groups on Saturday morning.

Saturday morning's ceremony at the Foreign Ministry was scheduled to coincide with the Paralympic Games.

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said he's very moved by the spirit of the disabled, especially when they compete in sports. Yang said disabled athletes challenge themselves and emphasize the true value of life.

11-year-old Li Yue lost a leg in the Sichuan earthquake earlier this year, and was featured in one of the Paralympic opening ceremony's most memorable moments. Her ballet dancing in a wheelchair using her hands impressed viewers worldwide. The foreign minister said he was also impressed deeply by this unforgettable scene.

After the ceremony, the guests were taken to the Paralympic village. For young Li Yue, her first visit to the athletes' village was a dream. She couldn't stop looking around.

Things got even better when the group met some of the Beijing Paralympics gold medalists. South African swimmer Natalie du Toit was there, and she heaped praise upon Li Yue.

The Foreign Ministry hosted a ceremony for representatives from disabled groups on Saturday morning.

Surrounded by so many champions, the little girl felt great.

Li Yue, Sichuan earthquake survivor, said, "The athletes compete in the Paralympics, no matter if they don't have arms or legs. They're all very brave. I should learn from them."

The foreign minister emphasized the implementation of the UN "Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities" in China.

Yang Jiechi, Chinese FM, said, "It's our pleasure to invite the children from disaster areas such as Li Yue to our ministry. Our main task is to provide service for more and more disabled people in China and throughout the whole world. We're involved in communicating and cooperating with other countries."

The Paralympic Movement inspires people with and without disabilities to join together in one big global family.

 

Editor:Liu Fang