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Boris Johnson flies to China as sporting spotlight shifts to our capital
Pippa Crerar, City Hall Editor20.08.08
Boris Johnson will fly out to Beijing today on his first foreign trip as Mayor to represent London at the Olympics.
The Mayor's formal duties will include accepting the Olympic torch from his Beijing counterpart at the elaborate closing ceremony this Sunday. He will also pick up useful tips from the Chinese on hosting the Games in London in 2012.
A certain highlight will be meeting Team GB athletes in the Olympic Village.
Mr Johnson, who has a packed itinerary for his five-day trip, will also be attempting to attract investment to London and strengthen trade links.
However, human rights protesters are likely to try to disrupt some events in a bid to attract attention to their cause.
"I am honoured to be representing London and the UK as we accept the baton and start the sprint towards the finish line of London 2012," he said. "This trip marks the point when the eyes of the world start turning towards London and I want to ensure that many of those eyes belong to businesses and investors who will see what great potential our capital offers."
The visit will be the first test of Mr Johnson's diplomatic skills and he will be under pressure to prove he can be a successful international ambassador, putting to rest his reputation for gaffes.
He will arrive hours ahead of Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who will also be in Beijing for the closing ceremony. However, their paths will barely cross as Mr Brown will spend time at sporting venues watching events while the Mayor tours the city.
The pair are expected to meet on the party circuit, including a bash at the British Embassy. The eyes of the world - at least
3.5 billion television viewers - will be on Mr Johnson as he stands alongside Beijing Mayor Guo Jinlong at the Bird's Nest stadium to accept the Olympic torch and then the flag, which he will bring back to Britain.
Mr Johnson will host a series of events set up to showcase London to the world. He will also hold a private meeting with Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee, and senior Olympics officials. During his visit, he will make an announcement about plans for the legacy of the Olympic Park and meet representatives of the Bank of China.
Reader views (2)
Here's a sample of the latest views published.
A good thing to do - diplomatically!
- Peter Seekings-Foster, Muildenhall, Suffolk
A sad dearth of details on the bed/shower arrangements like in your coverage of Ken's visit!
Let's just all hope and pray Bozza doesn't inflict international humiliation on London is some ghastly faux pas....
- Dr Susan Porter, London
