The Olympic flame reached China's financial hub of Shanghai on Friday.

The flame-lighting ceremony held in downtown Shanghai began with a minute of silence for the earthquake victims in southwest China.

In a brief speech to welcome the torch, Shanghai city mayor Han Zheng said the hearts of the city's 19 million residents went out to those affected by the quake.

"The torch bearers not only pass the Olympic spirit of indomitable struggle and unceasing progress, but also the Shanghai people's confidence and courage to unite with those in the quake-hit region. The Shanghainese encourage people in Sichuan to go forward and rebuild their hometowns."

Zhuang Yong, a former Olympic swimming champion at the 1992 Barcelona Games, kicked off the relay.

"I feel a little different due to the May 12 earthquake. The Olympic torch relay itself is for spreading sunshine and hope, so I want to send light and hope to Sichuan. I urge people to stay strong, in the knowledge that we are hand in hand with them forever."

A total of 208 torch bearers participated in the Friday relay.