Muscat-The only Middle Eastern capital to host the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay

Middle East, 02 April, 2008- Muscat was chosen to be on the 2008 Olympic Torch relay map, making it the only Middle Eastern capital amongst international cities to host the relay. The Olympic Torch will embark on a journey, crossing five continents passing through 21 countries and traveling a total distance of 97,000 km.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. as a Presenting Partner of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games selected four torchbearers, Omani singer Salah Zadjali, Syrian actress Sulaf Fawakherji, Qatari football player Saad Al Shemmari and Saudi sports reporter Batal Al Qaws to participate in Oman's Torch Relay on April 14th, 2008.

Mr. Ranjan Mazmudar, Vice President of Samsung Gulf Electronics commented: "Samsung is thrilled to take part in a global event of such great importance. The 2008 Olympic Torch relay will mark Muscat as a historical spot on an international sports arena. We are extremely proud of our torchbearers as their achievements reflect values of peace and unity that are perfectly aligned with our corporate philosophy and the purpose of the Beijing 2008 Olympics Torch Relay."  

Salah Zadjali is known for his fervent support of sports by composing songs dedicated to the sporting teams in Oman. He has also received acknowledgement from UNICEF for compiling songs talking about children's rights in the areas of education, health and care. Just recently, Salah organized and performed an operetta celebrating Oman's strength in facing the catastrophic tornado "Ghono" which hit Muscat and nearby cities in June 2007.

Salah Zadjali expressed his feelings of excitement and joy to be part of such a global event to be held on his home land. "To be part of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay as a torchbearer is of great significance. However, this once in a lifetime experience triggers greater feelings of joy and gratitude as it is going to be hosted on my home land, Muscat. I would like to thank Samsung Electronics for this great opportunity to participate in such a global sporting event."

Sulaf Fawakherji has participated in many Arab countries to support those with special needs. This year she participated in a volunteer commercial in collaboration with the United Nations aimed at encouraging the future generations to engage in reading, arts and sports activities.

On her part, Sulaf Fawakherji commented: "It is a special occasion for the Omani capital Muscat to be part of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay. And it is gives me great pleasure to be Samsung Electronics' torchbearer in Oman's Torch Relay, an event I am really proud to be part of on both personally and professionally. On this note, I would like to extend my appreciation to Samsung Electronics for having such a sincere approach and giving us all the opportunity to be part of this."

Captain Saad Al Shemmari achieved several prestigious titles.  He accomplished champion of the Qatari league 3 times, champion of Sheikh Jasem Cup in 2004 and 2007, and champion of the Gulf Cup 15 and 16; to name a few. He aspires to reach the finals of the World Cup 2010 for the

"Hosting the torch relay in Muscat this year is a remarkable moment for everyone. Being an Arab athlete, it gives me great pleasure to be in Muscat to participate in such a global sporting event. said Saad Al Shemmari. "This historical event reflects Samsung's mission to support youth programs and global sporting events which display commitment to humanity" added Al Shemmari.

As a prominent media figure, Batal Al Qaws covered several prestigious sporting events, including the Asian and Gulf Championships, Summer Olympics held in Athens in 2004 as well as numerous league championships. "I am proud to be one of Samsung Electronics' torch bearers participating in the relay. It is with no doubt we feel honored to be part of the torch relay in Muscat as it is the only Middle Eastern capital to be part of the route this year. The Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay will be a memorable experience to all of us."

Samsung Electronics has been a Worldwide Olympic Partner in the wireless communications category since 1997 and first sponsored the Olympic Torch Relay in 2004 prior to the Summer Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. Through the years Samsung has consistently sponsored and supported a broad range of sporting events that echo its corporate philosophy, elevate Samsung's brand recognition and demonstrate the company's commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and global friendship.

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About Samsung Electronics
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in telecommunication and digital convergence technologies with 2007 consolidated sales of US$103.4 billion. Employing approximately 150,000 people in 134 offices in 62 countries, the company is recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of mobile phones. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

© Press Release 2008