Chinese athlete Zhang Hongwei (left) hands the torch to power lifter Zhang Haidong in the National Stadium at the opening ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games in Beijing. China once again dazzled the world with a glittering ceremony as the Paralympics opened with the message that all life has value and dignity. [AFP]

Japan's NHK also broadcast the ceremony live on its educational channel.

One NHK commentator said the fervor of the Beijing Olympics had returned to China's National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest.

South Korea's YTN television said the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games moved the world just as the Beijing Olympic Games did.

In South Africa, the TV Channel Super Sport broadcast the opening ceremony live, hailing the performances as "spectacular" and "beautiful."

The broadcaster said China, as the host country, is creating a "homecoming" atmosphere for handicapped athletes from all over the world. And this is a true expression of the Beijing Olympic slogan: "One World, One Dream."

(CCTV September 8, 2008)