English Competition to Support Beijing's BidTo stir up enthusiasm and support for Beijing's bid for 2008 Olympic Games and popularize English among Chinese people, the "21st Century Ericsson Cup" National English Speaking and Writing Competition, will be held on March 30 in Beijing.Twenty-five students from China's key universities have been shortlisted as finalists after preliminary contests conducted by 60 universities around China. The speakers will express their views on "Beijing 2008: the Meaning of the Bid." Two winners will be selected during the competition to represent China in the International Public Speaking Competition to be held in London in May 2001. The speaking contest also marks the beginning of the "21st Century Ericsson Cup" national writing competition on the same topic. Chinese English learners may compete by writing about their views on the bidding activities. Zhang Yijun, general secretary of China Daily, one of the sponsors, said Friday at a press conference that they are delighted to do something to support Beijing's bid for the 2008 Olympics and advance communications between China and the rest of the world. Known for its strict procedures, authoritative judges and outstanding participants, the speaking competition is now recognized as the most prestigious event of its kind in China. |
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