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The world reacts to Beijing 2008

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- International Olympic Committee President Juan Samarach's announcement that Beijing will host the 2008 Summer Games spurred a wave of reaction worldwide.

Some reacted angrily to the success of the Chinese city's controversial bid. Others were more diplomatic. And the strongest reactions occurred in Beijing itself, where thousands celebrated the announcement in the streets.

What people are saying:

Committee

Tu Mintge, Secretary-General of the Chinese Olympic Committee:
"We really succeeded in communicating the strength of the Beijing bid. (This decision) will really serve the best interests of the Olympic movement."




Chinoy

CNN's Mike Chinoy, reporting from Beijing:
"For the people behind me, this is not about Jiang Zemin. It's about China ... The decision will have an enormous impact on how the Chinese see themselves and how the rest of the world sees them." (Audio 159 K/15 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)




Wu

Chinese dissident Harry Wu:
"I feel deep regret. (The decision) will prop up the corrupt regime -- it will reward and encourage it." (Audio 159 K/15 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)




Corchran

Chris Corchran, supporter of Toronto's Olympic bid:
"I really think it came down to who has the best bid. I don't think it was a political decision."




Yam

Siva Yam, U.S.-Chinese Chamber of Commerce:
"If we open up the society, it will be easier for us to improve human rights. To award Beijing the Olympics 2008 will be beneficial to China and to the people." (Audio 159 K/15 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)




Rice

Condoleezza Rice, U.S. National Security Adviser:
"We understand that this was a decision for the IOC to take. American athletes are going to go there and compete, hopefully very well."




Rice

Lu Chen, Chinese figure skater:
"Our government, our people, will do anything to make successful Olympic Games in Bejing ... I'm sure everybody's so happy to hear this great news." (Audio 389 K/37 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)




Korbut

Olga Korbut, a former Olympic gymnast:
"For me it doesn't matter where the Olympic games are held -- I mean to teach to prepare them. I'm glad this city has won." (Audio 389 K/37 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)







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• Beijing 2008
• International Olympic Committee

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