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Following is the speech (English translation) by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the International Nurses' Day Ceremony today (May 12):
Dr Leong, Dr Ho, respected nurses,
Today is International Nurses' Day. I had my diary rescheduled so that I could be sure to attend this ceremony in honour of Hong Kong's nursing profession. On behalf of the Government and the people of Hong Kong , may I express to all nurses in Hong Kong our most heartfelt gratitude and our utmost respect. Without your sacrifices and your devotion in caring for the sick, we would not have made as much progress as we have in fighting atypical pneumonia, and we would not be standing on the threshold of victory over this disease .
The public's admiration and trust for the nursing profession is perfectly summed up in the term "Angels in White" . The battle against atypical pneumonia has not only demonstrated once again how much you deserve this reputation, it has also added to the lustre of that reputation..
Thank you.
End/Monday, May 12, 2003
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