Li Lanqing's Olympic Bid Speech

Li Lanqing’s Olympic Bid Speech Ladies and gentlemen, many people in the world have a dream, that one day they could come to China and visit Beijing. My countrymen have a very strong desire to stage an excellent Olympic Games in Beijing, which is a great contribution to the Olympic movement and its history. I therefore hope from the bottom of my heart that you, distinguished IOC members, will help them realize their long-cherished aspirations. The Chinese sage Confucius says, "Isn’t it a delight after all to have friends come from afar?" Indeed, it is our delight to welcome all guests with open arms in Beijing in the year 2008. I’m sure you will have a great game in Beijing! Thank you! 【参考译文】 女士们，先生们，全世界很多人都有这样一个梦想，他们希望有朝一日能来到中国并访问北京。我的同胞也有在中国举办一次出色奥运会的强烈渴望，并将其看作是对奥林匹克及其历史的一个重大贡献，因此我衷心地希望尊敬的奥委会委员们能帮助他们实现这一期待已久的愿望。我国先圣孔子说过，“有朋自远方来，不亦乐乎？”2008年如能在北京热烈欢迎各位客人，这将是我们最喜悦的盛事。我相信，届时你们将会在北京看到一次伟大的奥运会，谢谢！