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Following is a speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Donald Tsang, at the launch ceremony of "Welcome Day" and "Strato-Fantasia" multi-media show today (August 17):
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good evening and welcome to Hong Kong!
There are always very good reasons to visit Hong Kong. Now, we have made it irresistible to do so with exciting activities and great events all the way into 2004. I am glad that you have come to experience the magic for yourselves.
The recovery of the tourism industry is phenomenal. Last month, we greeted 1.3 million visitors, 78 per cent up from June. With plans to enable Mainland residents to visit Hong Kong from selected areas on individual bases, this upward trend will certainly continue. To meet this challenge, we will ensure that our boundary crossing points and supporting services are running efficiently to facilitate visitors' entry. And to celebrate with all our visitors and the people of Hong Kong, the Tourism Board, together with its partners in the trades, have drawn up a range of activity in offering attractions in dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Today's "Welcome Day" programme is the climax of our "Welcome Months" which started in mid-July. In a while, you will experience the unique magic of Hong Kong as Asia's World City. The "Strato-Fantasia" is a multi-media spectacular featuring the world's largest display stratosphere of its type, together with laser, pyrotechnics, images, etc., set against our world renowned harbour skyline. With the drizzle of rain, it makes it more romantic too. I am sure it will leave you looking forward to the other mega events to come from now to early 2004, including our International Musical Fireworks Competition, Hong Kong WinterFest, the Harbour Lighting Show, the International Chinese New Year Night Parade, and many more. I am sure all our visitors will have a most memorable and enjoyable stay. The only thing you should worry about is when you should come back again.
Thank you for coming and enjoy the show.
End/Sunday, August 17, 2003
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