Cina - Inglese

China starts torch relay under tight security

[Guardian unlimited World]

China launched one of the most ambitious and controversial torch relays in the history of the Olympics today with a tightly restricted ceremony in Beijing.After anti-government protests this month in Tibet, three other provinces and at least four countries, security was so tight at the venue that the vast concrete expanse of Tiananmen Square aEuro" which once staged rallies of more than 1 million people aEuro" was empty of all but 5,000 carefully vetted guests.Paramilitary police were stationed on every overpass and slip road along the route of the parade. Security personnel were placed on nearby buildings, two stations were shut and Tiananmen Square closed down since last night, causing long traffic tailbacks.The hosts have spent billions of dollars preparing Beijing for the Olympic games. Liu Qi, the president of the Beijing Olympic Organising Committee, said: "The burning Olympic flame will spread the message of peace and friendship and unite all people under one...