China's Olympics squad was given a warm welcome by President Hu Jintao and other top leaders in a reception at the Great Hall of the People yesterday. The entire Politburo Standing Committee attended the ceremony to celebrate China's best result at the Olympics since it first took part in 1984. Mr Hu praised the team for boosting the confidence of the Chinese people and urged them to strive for even better results at the 2008 Games, which will be held in Beijing. 'We should acknowledge our achievements and summarise our experiences. We must not lose sight of our shortcomings, and should stay calm amid the difficult tasks that lie ahead,' he told the Olympic champions at a ceremony broadcast on CCTV. 'I hope you will continue to work hard and brave the hardships while striving to reach new heights. Work hard to achieve even better results at the 2008 Games.' Mr Hu also called on members of the Beijing Olympic organising committee to draw lessons from Athens. China scooped 32 gold, 17 silver and 14 bronze medals in Athens last month. Politburo Standing Committee members Zeng Qinghong and Li Changchun also attended the banquet.
