Although we live in the information age, this does not necessarily mean that the mutual understanding between different countries is easy. When the Olympics were approaching, China was under attack from some people and organizations, but after the opening ceremony on August 8, negative reports fell sharply, replaced by various positive reports. Media praised the opening ceremony for its striking Chinese characteristics, grand atmosphere and its reflection of a fast developing China. The quality of sports facilities that China built for the Games also received favorable comments along with Chinese hospitality, good behavior and the great improvement of the air quality in Beijing. To some extent, it's because the world got the opportunity to know more about China. Advanced information technology can't replace people's personal experience. Misunderstanding and prejudice will be broken by truth.

On August 8, President Hu Jintao held a luncheon for heads of state and government and royal family members from around the world. The distinguished guests came to China for the Olympics and also to share in China's joy. The deeper understanding between China and the rest of the world will surely help to promote deeper future cooperation. This cooperation will cover various areas, including the economy.

The Beijing Olympics were held at a time when the world economy is threatened by severe challenges. The U.S. economy is on the decline, and European and Japanese economies are also seeing a slowdown in growth. The world is plagued by oil, grain, financial and climate crises. However, despite various difficulties, the Asia-Pacific region still maintains a strong momentum of development. In the first half of 2008, China's economic growth rate was 10.4 percent, no mean feat. If the world economy wants to extract itself from the valley it is currently in, it can't do so without cooperation with East Asia and China-the most economically vigorous region in the world.

This year has proved to be harsh on a number of export-oriented Chinese enterprises. The depreciation of the U.S. dollar and appreciation of the Chinese currency has resulted in a shrinking export market and also the increasing pressure from inflation. But every coin has two sides. Severe conditions will force Chinese enterprises to seek ways of survival, development and upgrading. Confidence matters greatly in economic development. The Beijing Olympics further strengthen China's confidence and this will be transformed into tangible gains. Predictably, after the Olympics, China's economy will maintain its stable growth.

Although the Olympics are just a grand global sports event, it carries extensive influence, materially and spiritually. This influence will continue to push forward world progress as well as China's scientific and technological development.