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Following is a speech by the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food, Dr E K Yeoh, at the opening ceremony of the 4th Dental Expodent 2002 organised by the Hong Kong Dental Association today (July 12):

Dr Ling, Dr Leung, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am delighted and honoured to be invited to officiate the opening of the 4th Dental Expodent 2002. I wish to congratulate the Organising Committee of this three-day event for arranging a host of activities which cover not only the scientific aspects of dentistry, but also showcase the latest in state-of-the-art advances in dental technology and promote oral health among members of the community.

The Government believes that improving the oral health of the population through promoting oral hygiene and oral health awareness and facilitating the appropriate use of oral health care services is the most appropriate way forward. Hence, in the Health Care Reform Consultation Document published in December 2000, we proposed that collaboration be strengthened between the Department of Health, the dental profession and the Faculty of Dentistry particularly with regard to the surveillance and monitoring mechanism, quality assurance and oral health promotion.

I am pleased to observe that the Hong Kong Dental Association has a strong commitment, and is playing a pivotal role in promoting the oral health of the people of Hong Kong, in collaboration with the Department of Health and the Faculty of Dentistry.

I am sure that dentists, traders and members of the public alike will find the 4th Dental Expodent 2002 a rewarding experience. May I take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the Hong Kong Dental Association, and to the Organising Committee of this Expodent, for their initiative and hard work in organising this very worthwhile event.

Thank you.

End/Friday, July 12, 2002

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