China to grant full access to 2008 Beijing Olympics journalists
By Yusof Sulaiman l eTN Asia
The Chinese government has reiterated its promise and commitment to consider the needs of the media and to follow norms of past Games during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Beijing Organizing Committee for the XXIX Games (BOCOG ) president Liu Qi said detailed new regulations of the operation of foreign media will be ready by early next year.
Journalists covering the games will be able to get temporary entry permits for overseas vehicles, and will be able to apply for temporary driving permits. However, employment of Chinese citizens during the Games will be regulated.
“Internet service provided to news services at the Games will be uncensored,” added Li Jingbo, head of media services.
To ensure a sound working environment, foreign journalists with Olympic identity and accreditation will be exempted from applying for a visa, and allowed multiple entries into China during the Games.
Foreign media personnel will also be able to rent apartments and offices through local real estate agents.
The foreign media will be allowed to install their own radio equipment, and bring in recording equipment tax-free. BOCOG will help the media obtain permission from the relevant authorities for aerial filming during the Games.
The Press Commission of the Chinese Olympic Committee will help the foreign media access, and set up interviews with Chinese athletes following a ‘three weeks’ advance request, including filming of Chinese cultural relics, which would normally require permission from the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.
“We have no restrictions on travel for foreign journalists in China,” Sun Weijia, head of media operations for BOCOG told the Olympic World Press Briefing ceremony. “They can travel anywhere in China.”
September 29, 2006
Posted in: China