With a history of over 100 years, the symbols and images of modern Olympic Games have become particularly valuable assets. The emblem of the Olympic Games, in particular, is not only an important representation of the Olympic Movement and the Olympic brand, but also a demonstration of the charm of the host city’s unique culture and its national character and spirit. It is one of the most valuable assets of the Olympic Movement.//

The 2008 Olympic Games will be held in Beijing, capital of China and a city known to the world for its history and culture. It is the IOC and international community’s expectation that we create an Olympic image that reflects oriental wisdom and characteristics of both Beijing and China, as well as China’s long history, splendid culture and the fascination of the Beijing Games. The image is also expected to be a manifestation of the concepts of Green Olympics, High-tech Olympics and People’s Olympics -- thus leaving a unique legacy to the Olympic Movement.//

In order to create a unique, meaningful, symbolic and animated emblem for Beijing Olympic Games, BOCOG solicited emblem designs worldwide. Many domestic and international professional designing institutions and experts were invited to participate in the competition. In total we received 1,985 entries, of which 222 were from overseas. All the designs fully embodied the Chinese culture and an in-depth understanding of the Olympic ideals and spirit.//

After prudent assessment from 11 Chinese and international experts and comments from 30 community representatives, the original emblem design was selected. On March 28th 2003, the International Olympic Committee commended and officially approved of the emblem of the Beijing Olympic Games. It is the result of the combined wisdom of Chinese and international experts. The emblem embodies a spirit of holding the Games in an open and transparent manner and indicates the commitment of BOCOG to deliver first class work. //

We are proud to say that the emblem, carrying rich cultural meaning, represents the theme of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. The emblem of the 2008 Games has combined the 5,000-year history of the Chinese seal and the art of calligraphy with sporting imagery and shows a human figure running forward and embracing victory. The design embodies the essence of Chinese culture and tradition. //

The vivid red color conveys the festival atmosphere within Chinese culture and the figure resembles the Chinese character “Jing” which stands for the name of the host city. The figure not only depicts an athlete crossing the finish line, reflecting the Olympic spirit, it can also be interpreted as a dancing figure, conveying the anticipation of 1.3 billion Chinese people for the Olympic Games as well as their enthusiasm for receiving guests from all over the world. //

Based on the concept of “People’s Olympics” expressed by the emblem, we will speed up the development of culture and sport, promote social progress, unfold the charm of Beijing as a historical and cultural city and show the good spirit of its citizens. We hope to achieve the integration of the charm of oriental culture with modern Olympic philosophy. //

Through the 2008 Olympic Games we will strengthen communication and cooperation with other countries, enhance exchange and integration of Chinese and foreign cultures and improve the understanding, trust and friendship among people from different countries. Our goal for the 2008 Olympic Games is to provide a broad stage for advancement of world peace, friendship and progress. //

The emblem of the Olympic Games is an important component of Olympic intellectual property. The protection of the emblem will ensure the successful implementation of the marketing plan and the fulfillment of our commitment to host the best Olympic Games ever. The Chinese Central Government and Beijing Municipal Government have introduced regulations to ensure the protection of Olympic intellectual property. //

Enforcing these regulations is essential to those who wish to participate in and support the preparations for the Games. In unveiling the emblem, we call on people from around the world who care about and support the Beijing Games to contribute to the protection of Olympic Intellectual property and the value of the emblem, and to the construction of a sound legal environment. //

(Excerpts from Liu Qi’s Speech for Beijing 2008 Emblem Unveiling, August 3rd, 2003)