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China Rips 'Vile' London Torch Protests

State media glosses over clashes

By Jason Farago,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 7, 2008 4:15 AM CDT

(Newser) – A day after protesters in London nearly extinguished the Olympic flame, Beijing denounced the "tiny number of Tibet independence elements" who threatened the torch relay. "We strongly condemn this vile behavior," said an official. Chinese television focused on cheering crowds in the British capital, followed by a story criticizing the protesters, writes Reuters.

Meanwhile, the head of the International Olympic Committee has called for "rapid, peaceful resolution in Tibet," and reiterated that he does not foresee a boycott of the Beijing Games. Jacques Rogge voiced his concern that violence was tainting both the torch relay and the upcoming games. Today the Olympic flame makes its way through Paris amid a massive security operation, while in China several Tibetans go on trial for deadly rioting.

Police tackle a demonstrator during the Olympic torch relay in London, Sunday April 6, 2008.
Police tackle a demonstrator during the Olympic torch relay in London, Sunday April 6, 2008.   (AP Photo/Yui Mok, Pool)
Police tackle a demonstrator as the torch leaves Notting Hill during the Beijing Olympics torch relay in London Sunday April 6, 2008.
Police tackle a demonstrator as the torch leaves Notting Hill during the Beijing Olympics torch relay in London Sunday April 6, 2008.   (AP Photo)
Police apprehend a demonstrator  who attempted to grab the Olympic torch from TV presenter Konnie Huq, not seen, during her leg of the torch relay in London, Sunday April 6, 2008.
Police apprehend a demonstrator who attempted to grab the Olympic torch from TV presenter Konnie Huq, not seen, during her leg of the torch relay in London, Sunday April 6, 2008.   (AP Photo/Yui Mok, Pool)
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