China said on Tuesday that no force can obstruct the spirit and ideology of the Olympic Games.

"The Olympic torch, a symbol of the Games, represents peace, friendship and progress. No disruptive activities can obstruct such ideology and spirit," said Jiang Yu, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman at a press conference.

Jiang made the remarks when commenting on protests in the relay of the Games torch.

The relay went through 18 cities on five continents from April 1, and was warmly welcomed by peoples of all nations, Jiang said.

"This demonstrates the aspiration of the peoples around the world to support the Beijing Games," Jiang said.

Ho Chi Minh City is the last leg of the flame's journey outside China. After completing the Ho Chi Minh City relay, the flame will head to 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the Central Government as well as Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions of China.

The spokeswoman said the Chinese government has attached importance to the security of the Olympic Games and taken measures to deal with any possible threats.

She also said China would like to work with the international community to ensure a safe Games.

(Xinhua News Agency April 30, 2008)