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The following is the transcript of the introductory remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the start of the First Meeting of the Chief Executive's Council of International Advisers at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this (Wednesday) morning :

Mr Tung: It's nice really to welcome you all. Huge expectations as you can see of what we are going to achieve today. We are really delighted to have you all with us here in Hong Kong, some of the most well-known successful international business leaders, and that we know that we will benefit greatly from your advice. As far as we are concerned in Hong Kong, we are determined to make Hong Kong the premier international city in Asia. We look forward very much to your advice. I hope that aside from being very busy giving us advice, you will also take time out to look at Hong Kong in its most beautiful time in a weather like this and some relaxation on top of that. Thank you very much. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.

End/Wednesday, January 20, 1999

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