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Following is the speech made by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the start-off ceremony of the International Chinese New Year Parade today (February 1):
Ladies and gentlemen, overseas guests
Welcome everyone to our International Chinese New Year Parade.
As you can see, this is one of our most popular and colourful events in Hong Kong. It's also a time when families and friends, as well as our visitors from the Mainland and abroad all gather together to welcome the promise of the Chinese New Year. It is a time of joy and hope.
Today's parade is highlight of Chinese New Year celebrations not only in Hong Kong, but also among the Chinese communities around the world. It underlines our position as Asia's world city - a cosmopolitan, free and open society that seamlessly blends the best of East and West. There is really no other city in the world like Hong Kong.
I am sure you will all have a thoroughly enjoyable time. Let me wish everybody 'kung hei fat choy' - a prosperous and healthy 'Year of the Ram'. Thank you.
End/Saturday, February 1, 2003
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