More than half of Hong Kong's population will consider greeting the Olympic flame in person, a survey conducted by the Chinese University of Hong Kong found.

Around 37.7 percent of the 1,020 respondents said they may go and watch the relay on May 2, while another 12.9 percent said they definitely will witness the event.

Nearly 90 percent of these respondents said watching the relay is one way to show support for the Beijing Olympics.

Nearly all respondents expressed hope for a smooth torch relay.

More than 90 percent believed that people should render their support to the Beijing Olympics under any circumstances as it is something invaluable to all Chinese people.

Meanwhile, nearly 90 percent did not agree with boycotting the international sporting event and using it as a political platform.

More than 80 percent of the respondents said they are proud of the Beijing Olympics, and nearly 60 percent believed that the Games will shed positive light on the country's image.

(HK Edition 04/18/2008 page1)