The Olympic flame is lit by Greek actress Maria Nafpliotou during the handover ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympic flame at the Panathenian stadium site of the first modern Olympic games in 1896 March 30, 2008.  [Agencies]

"It's a great moment for us to transfer the Olympic flame to our Chinese friends in the wake of the Greece relay," said Kyriakou in ceremony speech.

"Greece, with truthful good-fellowship, hands the flame over to China. The follow-up international relay will spread the message of peace, cooperation and mutual respect.

"The Greek leg of torch relay brought inspiration, passion and emotion to people. As a symbol of Olympic flame, respect, pride and sticking by cause and value are bound with it."

The handover ceremony of Olympic flames starts in Panathenian stadium March 29, 2008. [CCTV]

Following the IOC anthem, three flame guards from China stepped up taking flame safety lantern and lighting stick.

The High Priestess Maria Nafpliotou kindled the torch from altar and passed it to HOC president Kyriakou, who handed it over to Liu Qi.

Liu showcased the flame and then preserved the flame in the lantern before quenching the flame.

"I like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Greek people. Thank you for yo

u elabrating the arrangement for Olympic flame lighting, thank you for the hard work ensuring the successful torch relay in Greece, and thank you for your unswerving support for the Beijing Olympic Games," said Liu Qi, the BOCOG president.

"Tommorrow, the Olympic flame, brimming with friendship and nice wishes of Greek people, is heading for Beijing, reaching the Great Wall from its origin," said Liu.

"Full of Olympic spirit, the flaring flame is to traverse five continents, spreading the Chinese hospitality and friendship to the world.

"The Olympic spirit of peace, respect and friendship is set to be rooted in China. The ideal of Olympic movement will prevail as the flame reaches the summit of Mt. Qomolangma."