Brazilian President lights Olympic torch
May 4, 2016, 4:53 am

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff lights the Olympic torch at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia May 3, 2016 [Xinhua]

The torch arrived in the Brazilian capital on Tuesday morning and was taken to the Planalto Palace (the official workplace of the president) to begin the relay that will pass through over 300 cities throughout Brazil.

“Upon lighting the Olympic torch, Brazil has now become the ‘country of the Olympics.’ The excitement surrounding this day will stay marked in our country’s memory, heart and history,” said Rousseff.

“I welcome this flame, a symbol of humanity’s great hope which is peace, union and friendship. We are going to infect our nation with the Olympic spirit and involve the whole Brazilian population in this historic opportunity,” added the president.

“Brazil is prepared to host the most successful edition of the Olympic Games. The comprehensive action plan in terms of security is ready based on the successful experience gained in the World Cup 2014,” said the president.

Upon leaving the Planalto Palace, the torch was carried by two-time Olympic champion (2008-2012) volleyball player Fabiana Claudino as it passed by Brasilia’s cathedral in a stretch where another nine figures will participate in the relay around the city.

Among the selected 10 is 12-year-old Syrian refugee Daqqah Hanan, in a symbolic gesture of solidarity with the world’s refugees.

The Olympic torch was lit for the first time on April 21 in front of the Temple of Hera, located in the Greek city of Ancient Olympia, by the sun’s reflection in a parabolic mirror, in keeping with traditional ritual.

The Olympic Games 2016 in Rio will take place from August 5 to 21 and the Paralympic Games will run from September 7 to 18.