The stadium is gradually beginning to look like a "bird's nest", as it is described by Beijingers.

According to the manager of the company in charge of the project, Tan Xiaochun, construction of the huge 'nest' in Beijing is at a 'critical' stage in terms of the difficulties involved in precisely welding together the huge steel framework.

However, Tan says a solution worked out by a team of experts will contribute to a successful project.

He is quoted as saying "We are building a new miracle in the world's architectural circles¡±.

The National Stadium will host the opening and closing ceremonies of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

Construction work on the project kicked off in December 2003 with the form of the "bird's nest" expected to be fully visible around August or September on this year.