China revives motorcycle escort protocol for foreign leaders

China has reintroduced the practice of escorting VVIP by ceremonial police motorbikes which it started with former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's visit here in 1954.
The practice has been restored ahead of the APEC summit to be attended among others by US President Barrack Obama.
China stopped the practice of escorting the leaders from the airport with bikes in 2004 in order to simplify procedures and avoid road blocks.
Nehru was the first leader to have been guarded by the motorcycle guards during his visit to Beijing in October 19, 1954, state-run Global Times reported on its web edition tonight with graphics.

The practice has been revived with the Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete when he visited here few days ago, it said.
China is due to host Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, (APEC) summit here next month in which leaders of 21 countries will attend.