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The following is the full text of the Millennium Address delivered by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, today (Friday) :

We are on the threshold of a new century and a new millennium. A deeper insight of the past will enable us to be better equipped to take on the future and to challenge what lies ahead.

On 1 July 1997, Hong Kong returned to China and commenced implementation of the novel and unique concept of "one country, two systems". The progress we have made in the last two and a half years is a testimony to the ability of Hong Kong people to withstand unprecedented difficulties and challenges. We have maintained social stability, the rule of law and Hong Kong's lifestyle. We have turned the concept of "one country, two systems" into reality. Despite the Asian financial turmoil, we are pleased to see that the Hong Kong is recovering, the market is picking up and job opportunities are increasing. I am confident that the situation will continue to improve.

A new era with remarkable and dynamic technological development is unfolding. Technological advances will change fundamentally the manner in which the world competes. For any country, region or individual, the only way to maintain competitive edge in the long run is to acquire knowledge. To maintain Hong Kong's position as a leading cosmopolitan city in the new millennium, the SAR Government will continue to make substantial investments in education, innovation and technology, as well as infrastructural developments, so as to make Hong Kong more competitive and to achieve our vision.

In the last 1000 years, the human race has undergone remarkable changes. But some fundamental values, like filial piety, mutual respect and the quest for knowledge will endure and will last. It is my earnest hope that all of us will continue to cherish these values to build a more united, coherent and harmonious community, so that Hong Kong can scale new heights.

As we look forward, we must keep in our vision the development of the whole country. At the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, our motherland displayed her remarkable achievements in industry, agriculture, education and national defence. A few weeks ago, the "Shenzhou" spacecraft was launched successfully into outer space. China is likely to join the World Trade Organisation soon. All these developments demonstrate that our country is thriving and that the Chinese people are making steady progress on all fronts. Following Hong Kong's return to China, we are forging ever closer ties with the Mainland. Hong Kong will benefit immensely from this unparalleled relationship with the Mainland and its vigorous development. This will help Hong Kong create more wealth and achieve even greater success.

While we are awaiting the dawning of the new millennium, let us admire the glittering lights of our remarkable city. I deeply appreciate that it is my responsibility to lead the Special Administrative Region Government to improve our service to the community and to express our care and concern for every citizen and every family of Hong Kong. At this moment, I hope that children will express their gratitude for the care, upbringing and the many sacrifices which parents have made. At this moment, I know that parents would wish the very best for their children that they may have unlimited opportunities in the new millennium.

On behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, I would like :-

- to thank the people of Hong Kong and all our friends for their unfailing support,

- to wish Hong Kong continuing success,

- to wish our country a prosperous and bright future.

End/December 31, 1999 (Friday)

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