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Sat 08 Aug 2008Controversy takes back seat as Olympics get off to a flying start
CHINA:CHINA OFFICIALLY launched itself onto the world stage yesterday with a stunning ceremony to open the Olympics, replete with pyrotechnics, carefully synchronised dancing and lessons in ancient Chinese history.
The spectacular event took place against a background of murmured discontent about China's human rights record and its stance on Tibetan independence, Xinjiang autonomy and selling guns to Darfur.
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