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Following is the opening remarks by the Secretary for Economic Development and Labour, Mr Stephen Ip, at the launching of "Visit Hong Kong Month" campaign of United Airlines today (August 26) (English only).
Glenn, Selina, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to be here this morning to participate in United Airlines' launching of its "Visit Hong Kong Month" campaign, which will mark the restoration of United Airlines' full flight schedule back to pre-SARS level and also the launch of a series of very attractive promotional offers. UA's targeted marketing efforts will certainly be a big help to our tourism industry. I hope this will encourage more tourists to come to Hong Kong from the United States.
A lot will happen in October, including three fireworks displays, world-class sports and cultural events and the International Autumn Festival. Because of the concerted efforts of the tourism and related sectors, visitor arrivals have picked up substantially. Last month (July), we welcomed 1.3 million visitors from overseas, which was more than three times the number in May and just 6% below that of same period last year. The passenger throughout at our International Airport is virtually back to the pre-SARS level and most airlines have already resumed their normal flight schedules for the summer peak season. The number of visitors from the Mainland of China has similarly registered a healthy "recovery", and is expected to rise further because of the implementation of the "individual travel" scheme.
Being the number one US carrier in Hong Kong, United Airlines' decision to launch the "Visit Hong Kong Month" campaign is most timely and will certainly add momentum to our efforts. I am very excited about the various promotions to be offered. I am sure that, with the efforts of UA and the support of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the "Visit Hong Kong Month" campaign will be a big success.
Thank you.
End/ Tuesday, August 26, 2003
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