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MUSCAT, Oman — Thousands cheered and some danced with traditional daggers along the Olympic torch’s path through Oman’s capital Monday, a festive greeting that contrasted with disrupting protests elsewhere on the flame’s global journey.
Under tight security, about 80 torchbearers ferried the flame down into the heart of this hilly Persian Gulf sultanate’s capital.
Officials said they expected a smooth relay of the flame on the brief Middle Eastern leg of its 20-nation tour, adding that any attempt to disrupt the parade would be dealt with severely. Oman has strong economic ties with China, a major importer of its oil.
The torch arrived from Tanzania. It next goes to Islamabad, Pakistan, and then to New Delhi, India.
