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Following is the speech by the Secretary for Economic Development and Labour, Mr Stephen Ip, at Croatian tourism reception today (October 16) (English only):

Sir Gordon, Minister Ruskovic, Ladies and Gentlemen,

DOBAR DAN (Good morning in Croatian!)

I am delighted to have this opportunity to welcome you to Hong Kong. I understand that our friends from Croatia are on the way to the World Tourism Organisation General Assembly meeting in Beijing this Sunday. I will be there as well.

Although I have not been to Croatia, I know that Croatia is a very charming tourist destination in Europe. Its main tourist attractions include beautiful beaches, coastal and mountain scenery and historic towns. Minister Ruskovic will tell you more about the charm of Croatia later. The best way to enjoy the beauty of Croatia is to be there and experience yourself the hospitality of the people and the beautiful sceneries.

Let me take this opportunity to mention that tourism is one of the four pillars of Hong Kong's economy. The economic potential of tourism for both Hong Kong and Croatia is enormous. I hope our friends from Croatia will enjoy your stay in Hong Kong and I hope that more and more Hong Kong people will travel to Croatia to see for themselves the wonders of Croatia. I also hope that Croatian people will come to Hong Kong to do shopping and sightseeing. With Sir Gordon as the Honorary Consul, I am sure there will be closer ties between Hong Kong and Croatia.

Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, October 16, 2003

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