China promises clean air in time for Olympics

Beijing: China says it will meet its obligations and stage an Olympics that meets standards for clean air.

The statement comes after concerns that the city's high-levels of pollution will affect athletes. Ethiopian long-distance runner Haile Gebrselassie has already said he will not run the marathon because of the city's high smog levels.

An environment official said measures were being taken to make sure the city will meet the required standards in time for the games.