Beijing Olympics opening ceremony stuns the world

Echo of mortal combat in South Ossetia could be felt in Beijing where the 2008 Summer Olympic Games have started on Friday.

The Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, who was attending the Olympics’ opening ceremony, says the timing of the Georgian actions is deliberate as the eyes of the world are drawn to China and the spectacular Olympic ceremonies.

And starting with a bang, the Olympic opening ceremony is both explosive and captivating. And despite the fact that it's hard for politics and sport to stay separated – for even one night – the Olympic spirit prevailed.