Tourists elsewhere in the world, though, are trying to make the sakura (cherry blossom) a symbol of hope.

BBC: Cherry blossom festivals amid tragedy

In other words, and as Mr Wen implied, MG's importance is as a symbol of the kind of investment China wishes to make in the UK, to transform Chinese companies into owners of valuable brands rather than just sub-contractors for western businesses.

BBC: Chinese Premier backing the euro and the UK

In order to make sure that the Olympic symbol is not infringed upon, there is a protected area surrounding the Olympic rings that must be honored.

FORBES: Olympic Hurdles For Advertisers: The Games' Unique Rules And Restrictions

He has become a symbol of those differences -- a contemporary face of a decades-old movement to make the ancient religion more relevant.

CNN: Symbolizing Differences

Manufacturing may never be as important to the American economy as it once was, but it is a badge and symbol - a sobering one for countries like the UK that have largely ditched their ability to make stuff.

BBC: Is 'Made in the USA' coming back?