SHANGHAI, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao held a reception here on Tuesday noon for foreign distinguished guests attending the opening ceremony of the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

Icelandic President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Special Olympics International Chairman Timothy Shriver and Honorary Chairperson Eunice Kennedy Shriver attended the event.

Extending a warm welcome to them, Hu said the Special Olympics conveys the ardent hope of people throughout the world for friendship, cooperation and peace.

"I am confident that the Shanghai Games will greatly enhance the global cause of people with disabilities and promote the mutual understanding and friendship among Special Olympics athletes and people of all countries," Hu said .

The Chinese government and people will use the occasion to promote the well-being of people with disabilities in China, and work with governments and peoples in other countries to improve the well-being of people with disabilities in the world and contribute to the building of a harmonious world of enduring peace and common prosperity, he said.

Addressing the reception, Timothy Shriver said today is a start, not only for the Games, but also for the long-term efforts to build a more just and friendly world.

No efforts would be spared until every child in the world can receive education and give play to his or her potential, and until all the communities can accept every citizen who is ready to contribute, he said.

The Shanghai Special Olympics Summer Games, scheduled to open on Tuesday evening at the Shanghai Stadium, brings together some 10, 000 athletes and trainers from more than 160 countries and regions.