The long-awaited Beijing Olympic Games has opened with spectacular performances, hitting headlines of the world media.

Reuters: China throws open doors to the world. A legion of 2008 drummers was the perfect countdown to a spectacular Olympic opening ceremony that showcased one of the world's oldest civilizations.

New York Times: An ecstatic China, an ancient nation so determined to be a modern power, finally got its Olympic moment on Friday night.The 2008 Beijing Olympics began with an opening ceremony of soaring fireworks, lavish spectacle and a celebration of Chinese culture and international good will.

Nouvelles d'EuropeL: People all over the world would feel the hospitality of the Chinese people and further comprehend China's pursuit of peace and friendship.

The Daily Telegraph: China has come to a standstill for the ceremony, as there has been overwhelming support for the Games from the Chinese public, many of whom see it as the most exciting event of their lifetime.

The Hindu:  Olympics has provided China with a "dramatic stage" and the country has been able to ride out most of the challenges it faced during the preparatory period for the Games. The Olympics have become a catalyst for sweeping changes. Beijing was transformed architecturally, historically and even temperamentally.

Al Thawra, Yemeni newspaper:  Beijing Olympics will turn out to be the most successful Games in history. China, the host of the grand event, is likely to be placed high on the Olympic medal list, posing an actual threat to the United States, which has dominated the event since the 1984 Los Angeles Games.

The Asian News Time, Thai Chinese-language newspaper:  The Chinese people have finally realized their Olympic dream and have shown the world that China, which is on a peaceful rise, bears great hospitality and selfless devotion.

Jiji Press, Japan:  To host the Olympics, which embodies the one-century dream of the Chinese people, will speed up China's development towards maturity. The Beijing Olympics coincides with the 30th anniversary of China's reform and opening up, and is likely to mark a watershed in China's drive for development.