Mr. President of the People's Republic of China, Mr. Liu Qi, Members of the organizing Committee, dear Chinese friends, dear athletes:

For a long time, China has dreamed of opening its doors and inviting¹ the world's athletes to Beijing for the Olympic Games. Tonight that dream comes true. Congratulations, Beijing.

You have chosen as the theme of these Games "One World, One Dream". That is what we are tonight.

As one world, we grieved（悲伤） with you over the tragic² earthquake in Sichuan Province. We were moved by the great courage and solidarity³（团结） of the Chinese people. As one dream, may these Olympic Games bring you joy, hope and pride.

Athletes, the Games were created for you by our founder⁴, Pierre de Coubertin. These Games belong to you. Let them be the athletes' Games.

Remember that you are role models（楷模，榜样） for the youths of the world. Reject doping（掺杂志） and cheating. Make us proud of your achievements and your conduct.

As we bring the Olympic dream to life, our warm thanks go to the Beijing organizing Committee for its tireless work. Our special thanks also go to the thousands of gracious（亲切的，高尚的） volunteers, without whom none of this would be possible.

Beijing, you are a host to the present and a gateway⁵ to the future. Thank you.

I now have the honor of asking the President of the People's Republic of China to open the Games of the XXIX Olympiad of the modern era.