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Following is the speech (translation) by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the Opening Ceremony of the World Newspapers Forum this (June 13) morning:
Mr Cheng, Mr Wang, ladies and gentlemen,
The hosting of the "World Newspapers Forum" in Hong Kong today is a momentous event celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Ta Kung Pao. On behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, I extend my heartiest congratulations to the paper and wish it many happy and vibrant returns in the Information Age.
As a Chinese newspaper founded on the soil of a tribulated nation, Ta Kung Pao has stood witness to every significant event of the Chinese history over the past century and recorded every heroic song chanted on this centenarian journey of the Chinese people. We take much pride in the history and achievements of Ta Kung Pao.
In 1902, when Ta Kung Pao was founded in the French settlement in Tianjin, China under the Qing Dynasty was coerced by the Eight-Power Allied Forces into paying reparations and surrendering sovereign rights. Plaguing the following 50 years were the Northern Expedition, warlord rivalries and Japanese invasions. At times of national turmoil, Ta Kung Pao stood up to foreign aggressions for national integrity. By the time the People's Republic of China was born, Ta Kung Pao had reached the wise age of forties. This very paper persisted in propagating the country's construction and development among Chinese in Hong Kong and overseas during the Cold War. Then came the reform and opening-up of the country. Sino-British negotiations over Hong Kong's future ensued and eventually Hong Kong returned to China in 1997. Throughout these years Ta Kung Pao has played a crucial and indispensable role, forging patriotism among local Chinese, rallying support for the SAR Government and collaborating with us to build a bright future for Hong Kong.
Throughout the last five years of reunification, with Hong Kong people's endeavours and the steadfast support of the Central Government, the "One Country, Two Systems" concept has been successfully implemented. As safeguarded by the Basic Law, we enjoy ample freedom of speech, of the press and of publication after reunification. Media reporting has not only remained multifarious, but enjoys even greater latitude. The rule of law is more robust than ever in Hong Kong under the Basic Law. There has been a continuous inflow of capital following reunification, with foreign direct investments growing at twice the rate of GDP. Enterprises from all over the world come to establish their business. More and more multinational corporations set up their regional headquarters here, making Hong Kong home to the largest number of such offices in Asia. People emigrating overseas before 1997 have returned. The "brain gain" and the continuous inflow of capital over these five years strongly reflect people's confidence in Hong Kong and "One Country, Two Systems". We shall continue to apply ourselves in developing our community, to build on our strengths and to contribute to the further development and the reunification of the country.
To all our media professionals, especially our guests from overseas, I hope that you can have a direct feel for Hong Kong's pride of reunification and the successful implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" concept.
Ladies and gentlemen, I certainly agree with Mr Wang that globalisation and modern telecommunications have brought the world closer, highlighting the importance of interdependence and interaction. We need to strengthen our exchanges to resolve issues of common interest. This forum provides us with a valuable opportunity for exchanges with media professionals from the Mainland and overseas to enhance cooperation and development. Last but not the least, I wish this forum every success. Thank you.
End/Thursday, June 13, 2002
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