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Before arriving in China ahead of the August 8 Beijing Olympics, the Olympic torch will make a symbolic journey across the world.
This year’s relay under the theme “Journey of Harmony” is the longest in Olympic history and is meant to signify China’s growing economic and political power.
The relay took off on March 24 with the lighting ceremony held in Ancient Olympia, Greece. Over the next 130 days, the torch will span six continents across the ancient Silk Road, highlighting China’s ties with the world. Many high profile athletes, celebrities and public figures are expected to take part in the run.
Lighting the flame and transporting it around the world involves a variety of equipment, along with a convoy of 16 vehicles and an aeroplane.
The torch will travel a total of 137,000 kilometres across the world, which is a stark comparison to the 3,422 kilometres covered by the original relay which promoted the 1936 Games.
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