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Following is the translation of the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the Opening Ceremony for the Reverence and Blessing of the Buddha's Finger Relic this (May 26) morning:
Master Kok-kwong, Ms Liu, venerable faithfuls, ladies and gentlemen,
On behalf of the SAR Government and the people of Hong Kong, I express heartfelt gratitude to the Central Government for granting special permission for the Buddha's finger relic from Famen Temple in Shaanxi, along with 20 super national treasures, to be displayed in Hong Kong. Local Buddhist followers and, indeed, all citizens are privileged to have this rare opportunity to see such sacred and precious assets.
For Buddhists, receiving the holy relic is a ritual to promote Buddhism in the hope of bringing peace, prosperity and blessings to society. Today's welcoming ceremony for the relic and other treasures is not only a gala event for the Buddhist community, but also a good deed advocating peace, virtues and social harmony in Hong Kong.
After our return to the motherland seven years ago, the birthday of Buddha has been a public holiday in Hong Kong for six years. To mark Buddha's Birthday, with the support and assistance of the State Council, the State Administration for Religious Affairs, China's Buddhist Association and other Mainland authorities, the Hong Kong Buddhist Association has arranged for the relic and other treasures to come to Hong Kong for exhibition. Out of its care and thoughts for Hong Kong compatriots, the Central Government has approved the exhibition and a delegation as escort headed by Ms Liu Yandong, Vice-chairperson of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. I take this opportunity to convey my warmest appreciation to the Central Government, Ms Liu, and other authorities and people concerned.
And, my special thanks also go to the Hong Kong Buddhist Association for organising the activity. I wish the event great success and joy to all participants.
Thank you.
Ends/Wednesday, May 26, 2004
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