As host of the 29th Olympic Games, China is steeped in paradox.

China calls itself a developing country and emphasizes its limited ability to share international responsibilities. But at the Beijing Games opening ceremony, the country lavished funds and resources for a spectacle designed to showcase wealth.

Enormous effort went into making the opening show innovative, friendly and moving. But thousands of soldiers were used as performers to ensure flawless execution.

From the start, the government called for separating politics and sports. But 80 heads of states and royalty were invited to the Bird’s Nest stadium gala. And they came with a clear understanding that, for the Chinese, nothing is more important than face.

Contradictions will certainly persist after the games, reflecting China’s adaptation to the international arena. The latest play for the world’s largest sporting event, however, marked what’s seen as modern China’s coming of age.

But now let’s consider China’s Olympic moment through foreign eyes. Caijing interviewed political and business leaders, media tycoons and retired athletes from around the world who attended the opening, weighed China’s emergence and offered forecasts for the post-Olympics period. Their perspectives add value to the images of China projected through Bird’s Nest theatrics.

Australia Premier Kevin Rudd:
The Olympics Are China’s Platform
By Hu Shuli, Wang Shuo and Wang Huan

U.S. Journalist James L. McGregor:
Goodbye Non-Interference
By Caijing Staff

Torch Lighter:
Extend the Olympic Principle to all Aspects
By staff reporter Yang Binbin

Journalist David Schlesinger:
Beijing Is Completely Different
By Caijing Staff