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Following is the speech by the Secretary for Home Affairs, Dr Patrick Ho, at the opening ceremony of City Heroes Photo Exhibition held at ground plaza of the HSBC Main Building today (March 31):

Ladies and gentlemen,

I am very honoured to say a few words here to support the City Heroes Photo Exhibition. The exhibition shows the efforts and contributions of Hong Kong people from all walks of life. Some of the names may be known to you already. Some may not - and this is the first time you hear of their stories. These City Heroes find their joy in life in this city, or struggle to do what they want, or realize their dreams in difficult times. When we look at their photographs and appreciate their stories, we may wonder if we can ever be able to do what they have done. I believe, in a free and open society such as Hong Kong, all people have their own moments of memory and success in life. When we look at the photographs in this exhibition, perhaps we should also look inside ourselves and have a silent moment of reflection to find our own joy and peace.

Ladies and gentlemen, though Hong Kong is having a difficult time at this moment, we should not forget that this is a wonderful place for sleeping dragons, crouching tigers as well as silent lions - just like the ones out there guarding the HSBC ground plaza. Thank you.

End/Wednesday, March 31, 2003

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