Chinese Ambassador to Run with the Torch in the 2006 Doha Torch Relay

Doha, 5 July 2006 - The Chinese Ambassador to Qatar, His Excellency Mr Li Jianying, announced at the Chinese Embassy in Doha today, his excitement at joining the list of Torchbearers to carry the Flame in the 15^th Asian Games Doha 2006 Torch Relay when it returns to Qatar on November 25 to December 1.

'Follow the Flame' is the theme of the Doha 2006 Torch Relay that travels to 15 countries and regions worldwide over the course of 55 days, the largest Torch Relay in the history of the Asian Games. 

His Excellency, Mr Li Jianying will join more than 3,000 Torchbearers who will carry the Flame throughout Asia.  "I am proud to be a part of the Doha 2006 Torch Relay and to carry the Flame in Qatar, the host country of the 15^th Asian Games", he said.  The Doha 2006 Torch Relay will be traveling through China from October 22 to 27 and will make a visit to the next Asian Games host city Guangzhou on October 25.

"This is a once-in-lifetime opportunity, and a chance to unite people from every country who have made Qatar home. I encourage all residents to apply for your chance to carry the Flame and join us in this unique event", he concluded.

DAGOC is offering all Qatar residents who are 10 years or older as at 24 November 2006, the opportunity to take part in this historic event.  The Relay in Qatar will travel through Al Shamal area, Dukhan, Al Wakra, Al Khor, finishing at the 15^th Asian Games Opening Ceremony in Doha on the 1^st of December.

Applications can be made online at www.doha-2006.com or by filling out application forms found in all Asian Games outlets including competition venues, clubs etc.  Forms can be submitted via mail (PO Box 25444) or deposited in official collection boxes located at DAGOC 1 and 3 and QPost.  Applications close on the 30^th of August, with the draw occurring on 3^rd September.

The aim of the Torch Relay is to touch the lives of everyone who is part of it: the Torchbearers and their families, the spectators, the National Olympic Committees and Federations, Asian National Olympic Committees, media, volunteers and the people of Qatar.

-Ends-

For more information about the 15^th Asian Games Doha 2006, please contact:
Wael M. Barghouti,
Head of Media Relations
Office: +974 448 2492,
Mobile: +974 554 6518 or
email: wbarghouti@dagoc2006.org
 
For more information about the Doha 2006 Torch Relay, please contact:
Katrina de Jersey,
Head of Torch Media and PR
Office: +974 448 1417,
Mobile: +974 513 7150 or
email: kdejersey@dagoc2006.org

© Press Release 2006