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Following is a speech by Postmaster General , Mr Luk Ping-chuen, at the "Hong Kong Disneyland" Special Stamps Issuing Ceremony today (January 12):

Mrs. Lai, Mr. Robinson, distinguished guests and friends from the media.

Good morning,

Welcome to the "Hong Kong Disneyland" Special Stamps Issuing Ceremony.

It was an exciting time when the news broke that Hong Kong would be home to a new Disneyland. I believe that our honourable guests here feel the same elation and anticipation as I do towards the completion of the theme park. When the Hong Kong Disneyland officially opens, it will not only provide families in Hong Kong a leisure facility to spend their weekends, but also serve to consolidate Hong Kong's position as a tourist hotspot in Asia, help revitalise the employment market, and also boost our economic development.

Today, Hongkong Post launches a set of four special stamps to mark the ground-breaking of the Hong Kong Disneyland at Penny's Bay. The stamps depict four themed lands that will make up the theme park. Each stamp is uniquely embossed with the Mickey Mouse. I am sure this set of wonderful stamps would fill you with joy and imagination.

Before you go, do not forget to take a look at our Postal Gallery on the ground floor. You must find our new series of Disneyland exhibits very interesting.

Thank you.

End/Sunday, January 12, 2003

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