2009-01-03 Let's Go Skiing Although the word of winter seems to covey anything but warmth, I believe the idea of going skiing is sure to kindle the passion within many people. Today we will talk about skiing. • Decision-making Mechanism Prior to Encouragement of Pursuit of Innovations • China to Step up Efforts to Improve Net Environment • China Highlights New Year Fiscal Emphasis • India handed over evidence of Mumbai attacks to Pakistan • EU delegation holds talks to push for a cease-fire in Gaza

Forty million flowers of more than 500 varieties will help to decorate Beijing into a big garden city during next year's Olympic Games.

Zhou Jianping is an official with the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Landscaping and Forestry.

"According to the spirit of economical Olympic Games, flowers will be attended in proper time and at proper locations, giving full consideration to transportation and the safety of pedestrians."

A recent official report says that local Beijing flowers will be mainly used, along with some crossbreeding flowers and breeds obtained via international cooperation.

Residents who face onto the street are also being encouraged to decorate their balcony with flowers to show their Olympic spirit.