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Beijing 'first among equals': official
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BEIJING is more than the frontrunner in the battle to get the 2008 Olympics, according to Asia's top sports official.
Sheikh Ahmad al Sabah, president of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), said the Chinese capital is now “first among equals” following the release of evaluation reports of the candidates this week by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The comments from one of the most powerful men in the Olympic movement, were another strong signal that Beijing is considered the best venue.
He said the IOC report on the five bidding cities was “carefully but definitely weighted in favour of Beijing”.
Beijing, Paris and Toronto are now considered the three leaders ahead of the July vote for the 2008 Games. Osaka in Japan and Istanbul are the other candidates.
“Beijing is now positioned within the Olympic movement as first among equals,” said Sheikh Ahmad.
The IOC report said Beijing, Paris and Toronto were all excellent candidates capable of staging a great Olympics.
Long Xinmin, vice-chairman of Beijing's bid committee, said the capital has planned to spend US$30 billion roads, sports facilities and environment if its race succeeds. (SD-Agencies)
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