The Anxiety of a Fearful "Olympic Host" -- ‘Anti-China’ groups threaten Olympics

‘Anti-China’ groups threaten Olympics

By Mure Dickie in Beijing

Published: July 4 2008 22:13 | Last updated: July 4 2008 22:13

A top Chinese security official has warned that “anti-China” forces and other hostile groups are
intensifying efforts to sabotage next month’s Beijing Olympics.

The warning from Yang Huanning, executive vice-minister for public security, reflects concern among
Chinese leaders about the possible disruption of an event in which they have invested enormous
political capital.

It is also likely to further spur sweeping security measures in Beijing and other Olympic cities
that some observers say could cast a chill over Games events.

Tougher implementation of visa rules in recent months has already sent the number of tourists
arriving in the Chinese capital plummeting.

Some western critics have already dubbed the Olympics the “no-fun” Games, although local public
enthusiasm for the event still appears to be strong.

In comments posted on the public security ministry’s website on Friday, Mr Yang said: “As the
Beijing Olympics draw daily closer, all kinds of anti-China and hostile forces are further
intensifying their activities to create disturbances and carry out sabotage by any means.”