China congratulated on successful Olympics: Foreign leaders have sent telegrams and letters to congratulate China on the complete success of the Beijing Olympics. French President Nicolas Sarkozy said that the Games left a deep impression on him and the opening ceremony showcased the unique Chinese cultural heritage and fully demonstrated the slogan of the 29th Olympic Games, "One World, One Dream."

In every sense this has been China's games. A century ago at the 1908 Games in London, China did not even field a team. In 2008, China topped the gold medal league table (this is the first time in sixteen years that the US hasn't occupied this spot).

Beijing to reduce Olympic projects: The city government is to take on ten of the fifteen proposed projects for the 2008 Olympic Games, but has declined to confirm which five projects have been scrapped. These changes will save over 3 billion RMB ($360 million) and follow Beijing Mayor Wang Qishan's call for a frugal approach to the Olympics - Chinaview.

China's Shoe Output Tops the World - China now tops the world in terms of shoe output. China has 40,000 shoe manufacturing plants with annual output of 6.5 million pairs, accounting for 20% of the world's total. - Crienglish

China Opens Up Press Wholesale Market - China will open its book, newspaper and periodical wholesale market to overseas investors by the end of this year. Overseas investors will be allowed to form book, newspaper and periodical wholesale and retail firms by the end of 2004. China has already opened up these markets and the printing industry to overseas investors, fulfilling commitments made on entry to the World Trade Organisation - Xinhuanet

China & The 2004 Olympics - Chinese Olympic athletes set an impressive stage in their bid to gain 2004 Olympic Summer game glory. China sent more athletes to the Games than any other country and finished in second place overall, behind the USA. Gold: 31; Silver: 17; Bronze: 13; Total Medals: 61