Chinese torchbearer receives Sarkozy's sympathy note
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French Senate President Christian Poncelet made a special trip to meet Chinese torch bearer Jin Jing after arriving in Shanghai on Monday. Poncelet gave President Nicolas Sarkozy's sympathy note to Jin Jing, a wheelchair-bound fencer who was attacked during the Olympics torch relay in Paris.
French Senate President Christian Poncelet (front L) hands over President Nicolas Sarkozy's sympathy note to Chinese torchbearer Jin Jing (R) in Shanghai, east China, April 21, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)
In the letter Sarkozy says he would like to express deep regret towards the way Jin Jing was shoved in Paris when she held the Olympic torch two weeks ago. He says Jin Jing showed outstanding courage which honors herself and China.
Sarkozy says he understands the Chinese people's feelings were hurt with what went on that day especially the intolerable attack Jin Jing suffered which he strongly condemns.
Jin Jing was attacked during the Olympics torch relay in Paris.(Xinhua Photo)
The letter says the incidents that were brought about by a few people don't reflect the feelings of the French people towards the Chinese people. Sarkozy also invited Jin Jing to France in the near future as his guest.
After hearing what the letter had to say, Jin Jing stressed that protecting the torch is what every Chinese and every athlete is ready to do. She hopes the flame can also pass Chinese people's friendship to the people around the world.
Poncelet said the French people were also hurt by the attack Jin Jing suffered in Paris. He said France will make effort to strengthen friendship between the two sides and believes the Beijing Olympics will be very successful.
