Chinese President Hu Jintao addresses a welcoming luncheon in Beijing, China, Aug. 8, 2008. Hu Jintao hosted a welcoming luncheon in honor of world dignitaries who are here to attend the opening ceremony of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.(Xinhua/Rao Aimin Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao, together with the foreign leaders, entered the banquet hall in the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing on Friday afternoon for a grand welcome banquet.

    The banquet is being held for VIPs from all over the world, who have come to the Chinese capital to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games, scheduled for Friday night in the National Stadium, or the Bird's Nest, in north Beijing.