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The following is the speech delivered by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the Dinner in honour of President Jiang Zemin, at the Government House tonight (June 30):
President Jiang, Vice-Premier Qian, distinguished guests,
On the same day five years ago when President Jiang visited Hong Kong, we saw the British flag lowered and China's national flag raised flying over the sky of Hong Kong. With President Jiang's announcement of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong opened a new chapter in its history. Today, as the HKSAR Government enters its second term, President Jiang graces us with his presence, showing the care for Hong Kong and the full support of the Central Government. On behalf of the HKSAR Government and our fellow citizens, I extend to President Jiang our warmest welcome and heartfelt gratitude.
The First Term HKSAR Government is about to conclude its work. Looking back over these five years, we have taken on a historic mission under unique circumstances. With the strong support of the Central Government and the joint efforts of Hong Kong people, we have successfully implemented "One Country, Two Systems". We have overcome the Asian financial crisis. We have preserved social order, ensuring that Hong Kong maintains a politically and socially stable environment and a solid economic foundation that can rise to any challenges ahead.
I have developed three convictions from these years. First, ensuring a politically and socially stable environment is of paramount importance. To maintain such an environment, we must uphold the rule of law and ensure that our governance moves with the times and enjoys wide public support.
Second, concentrating efforts on promoting economic development is essential. Sustained economic growth underpins social and political stability, improves livelihood and builds up public confidence. Economy is the biggest and the most urgent issue confronting us now. My Administration will act to the best of our abilities and use every possible means to push through our economic restructuring and lead Hong Kong out of the economic difficulty.
Third, the development and support of the country is crucial to us. It is most uplifting to see China's momentous economic development and rising international status in recent years. Reaffirmed with our new identity, we have joined our heart even closer with the nation. As I have said on many occasions, Hong Kong is fortunate to have returned to the motherland amidst her rapid developments. Hong Kong is now faced with the challenges of external economic downturn and our internal economic restructuring. But never will we be daunted. We possess the strengths to overcome all of these. We are backed by our strong motherland and unfaltering support of the Central Government. What's more, the HKSAR Government has gained very useful experience in its governance over the past five years. I believe, with our relentless efforts, we can ride out all difficulties. The future of Hong Kong, like that of our motherland, will be bright and promising.
Now, may I propose a toast:
To President Jiang and Mrs Jiang,
To every distinguished guest here, and
To the continued success of "One Country, Two Systems".
End/Saturday, June 30, 2002
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