"Community Reception" program launched for Special Olympics

Source: CCTV.com | 09-29-2007 15:43

The "Community Reception" program of this year's Special Olympic World Summer Games has begun in Shanghai just a few days before the opening ceremony. Athletes have been exploring the city's communities to talk with residents and learn a bit about local culture.

Early in the morning, the Azerbaijan and Tajikistan delegations were warmly welcomed by a community in Xujiahui district, in southwest Shanghai. They were shown Beijing Opera, pottery, flower arrangements and a Chinese abacus.

"It's very interesting." said a Azerbaijan delegation member.

And the delegation was treated to a surprise. The community prepared a birthday cake and gifts for an athlete celebrating her 20th birthday.

A Tajikistan delegation member"It is a big surprise. Many thanks indeed."

This year's "Community Reception" program ranks first in scale, scope and number. More than 1800 families from 12 cities in China including Shanghai and Beijing, will receive nearly 9000 delegation members from 163 countries and regions in the next two to three days.

Editor:Zhang Ning