Welcome to Beijing Olympic countdown. I'm Zhengyun. There are now just 38 days to go before the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Torch Relay in Yingchuan Kicks Off

The Beijing Olympic torch continued its relay in Yinchuan, the last leg of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region today (July 1) in north-central China. Yinchuan, known also as the "Phoenix City," is the capital and political, economic and cultural center of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Tomorrow, the sacred flame will head for the next stop in its journey, Yan'an city of Shanxi province in northwest China.

(Photos from beijing2008.cn)

China Says Visa Policy Changes to Ensure Safe Olympics 

A senior Chinese Foreign Ministry official yesterday(Jun 30) defended changes to the country's visa policy, saying they were aimed at ensuring security for the Olympic Games and in line with international practice. Wei Wei, director of the Foreign Ministry Consular Department, said:

"Although there are some changes in visa application procedures, the new policy is not as strict as might be imagined. Those who apply to come to China for justifiable reasons will be given every convenience."

Beijing Prepares Emergency Medicine Supply for Olympics

According to a leading pharmaceutical executive yesterday (Jun 30) Beijing has invested 29 million yuan (4.1 million US dollars) in an emergency reserve of drugs and medical equipment for the Olympic Games. Chairman of Beijing Pharmaceutical said the stockpile would be kept for public health emergencies. Beijing has set up 200 medical stations covering all Olympic venues, and more than 190 ambulances will be on standby. In addition, 22 hospitals have been designated to serve athletes, volunteers and Games staff.