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Following is the translation of the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the spring reception he hosted at Government House this afternoon (February 15).

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Hong Kong's Spring Festival is full of life this year. The joy and vibrancy is felt everywhere and it demonstrates that we are on track to full recovery and our economy is the best it has been in recent years.

This has been the aspiration of the entire Hong Kong community for years, and the achievement of years of collective effort by the community in collaboration with the Government and under the care and support of the Central Government. In addition to economic results, we have, more importantly, determined the positioning and direction for Hong Kong to move forward, namely, to leverage on the staunch support of the Mainland, engage ourselves globally and develop into a world city providing quality services. As we press ahead in this direction to realise our defined roles, we will build a more thriving and prosperous Hong Kong.

In the next two and a half years, promoting development will continue to be the Government's focus. Harmony and stability are the foundations for further development. Undoubtedly, this focus will be well supported by the community.

The Government will do its best to promote "people-based" governance. We will try all possible means to create a harmonious environment to yield the best results from our development forces. We will take practical measures to promote social solidarity, to pay close attention to public aspirations, and to help the needy and poor. We will work hard to let more people enjoy the fruits of our economic revival. We will continue our efforts to create a business-friendly environment to facilitate economic restructuring and advancement. My colleagues and I will do our utmost to implement all those measures as proposed in my Policy Address that work toward the overall and long-term interests of Hong Kong.

Harmony brings happiness, progress creates fortune. Promoting development and harmony is a goal shared by the Government and the community. Working together with one heart, we will definitely achieve this goal.

Now, I invite my colleagues to come up and propose a toast to all our guests in this season of revival, and wish you success in your business and happiness in your families.

Cheers!

Ends/Tuesday, February 15, 2005

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