Torch relay gets off to peaceful start in Thailand

Thailand’s leg of the Olympic torch run got off to a peaceful start today, as thousands gathered in Bangkok’s Chinatown to give the flame a flag-waving welcome.

From a stage beside a large red Chinese-style gate, Thai dignitaries and the Chinese ambassador delivered brief speeches praising their countries’ friendship, as athletes stood by holding the torch and accompanying flame apparatus.

Many in the festive crowd of onlookers, which included a large number of tourists, carried Chinese and Thai flags.

A sole dissenter was seen at the launch site – a Western woman carrying a picture of Tibet’s Dalai Lama.