Vice president Xi Jinping has stressed the importance of security, during his inspection tour of the Olympic co-host cities of Qing-huang-dao and Tianjin. He also encouraged organizers in the cities to provide first-class service during the Olympics.

Xi Jinping (front R), member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese vice president, inspects the Qinhuangdao Olympic Centre Stadium in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei province, July 15, 2008. Xi inspected the preparation for football games in Qinhuangdao on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

With football matches being among the most popular of Olympic events, Xi Jinping paid close attention to security during his tour in Qin-huang-dao.

At the city's Olympic security command headquarters, the vice president studied the efficiency of security measures and stressed the key role security plays in the success of the Games.

Visiting the stadium where 12 Olympic football matches will be held, Xi jinping was impressed with the advanced lighting system and grass field. He encouraged the staff and volunteers to provide the best service to overseas and domestic visitors. He offered similar encouragement at an Olympic designated hotel.

The vice president met with the Chinese Women's Football team at the Football training center in Qin-huang-dao. Rising to fame in 1990s, the team is dubbed the Steel Rose for their toughness and tenaciousness. Xi Jinping encourage the girls to pass on their traditions and bring glory to China next month.

Xi jinping also inspected preparations in the co-host city of Tianjin. While praising the city's first-class facilities, particularly the new Olympic stadium, Xi urged the organizers to raise service to the highest level. And, he called on the local people to put forward their best image to the world.

(CCTV July 16, 2008)