"Today will lead to the opening of the first ever Olympic Games in China, where one fifth of the world's population is longing for them," said Rogge.

"By crossing five continents and visiting 21 cities throughout the world, and more than 100 cities in mainland China, the 2008 Olympic torch relay prepares the way to Beijing. "The messengers will be citizens, young or old, able or disabled, athletes and members of the Olympic Movement, who are all eager to promote what each one of us can contribute to a better world." The Olympic flame will be handed over to BOCOG at 3 PM March 30 at Panathenian Stadium in Athens. In Greece, the sacred flame will pass through 16 prefectures, 43 municipalities, 12 municipal districts and four communities in the hands of 605 torchbearers. En route, a total of 29 ceremonies will be held to celebrate the flame. The torch will be carried over the island for six days, staying overnight in Mesologi, Ioannina, Vera, Thessaloniki, and Lamia, before it reaches Athens. The Olympic flame is to arrive in Beijing on March 31. A welcome ceremony will be held at Tian'anmen Square, the heart of the Olympic host city.     (China.org.cn, Xinhua News Agency, March 24, 2008)