The CPC leader in charge of security has called on Olympic organizers to make life as convenient as possible for the public, while ensuring the implementation of special security measures. Zhou Yangkang made the appeal while inspecting preparations 17 days ahead of the opening.

Zhou Yongkang (2nd R Front), member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, inspects a police station in the Nanchizi Community of Donghuamen Street in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2008. Zhou inspected public security posts for Olympics security work in Beijing on Tuesday.(Xinhua Photo)

Zhou Yongkang's first stop was a community near Tiananmen Square, China's political center. He asked local authorities to get residents involved in ensuring a smooth Olympics.

He then went to the Dongzhimen Subway Station, a major interchange, and also the starting point of the airport express. He checked security operations in the main control room and then boarded a train to the Capital International Airport.

During the ride, Zhou Yongkang described Olympic security as the current top priority for law enforcement. He asked local leaders to be at the frontline and cooperate with the police, armed police, and the army.

He also required strict, intensive management of the security forces and a well-functioning command system.

Zhou Yongkang called Beijing's 2-month traffic controls, which started on Sunday, a "necessary procedure." And he asked municipal authorities to improve public transport to meet public demand and reduce congestion.

At the airport's Terminal 3, Zhou Yongkang asked the management to optimize security checks to process passengers quickly, and to also take into account their needs.

(CCTV July 23, 2008)