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Following is the speech (English translation) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at the National Day reception this morning (October 1):
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Today marks the 57th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. I am delighted to celebrate the birthday of our country with all of you.
In the early years of the 21st century, the world has seen the rapid development of China. Over the centuries, it has been the dream of every Chinese to witness a prosperous and strong China. The Chinese nation has a long history and a rich cultural heritage. Before the Industrial Revolution, China was one of the most advanced civilizations and economies in the world. In the 18th century, Europe achieved a decisive technological advantage over China by virtue of the scientific advances brought about by the Industrial Revolution. With an indomitable spirit and amazing resilience, however, the Chinese people have overcome myriad hurdles and challenges over the centuries to rise to prosperity.
Since I took office as the Chief Executive, I have visited Sichuan, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Hainan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan and Hunan provinces and experienced for myself the nation's economic success. Recently, I led a delegation of government officials and local businessmen to attend the Expo Central China 2006 in Changsha. I take pride in our country's achievements and in seeing such strong potential for economic advancement in the Central Region. I believe, all the more, that Hong Kong has an even more important role to play in the nation's development. To this end, we held the Economic Summit on the 11th Five-Year Plan to map out strategies for the way forward. We will never forget the strong support the Central Government has given us. We will make every effort to improve our infrastructure in financial services, logistics, trade and tourism to bring a better life to Hong Kong people and contribute more to the country.
During my recent trip to Hunan, we paid a visit to the provincial gymnastics training ground. We saw the rigorous training our young athletes undergo to pursue personal and national glory. While their faces were moist with sweat, their eyes glittered with joy and hope. Their faces are deeply etched in my memory. I wish they could all give full play to their strength and skills in the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, so as to present to the world a young, vigorous and energetic China.
Future competition among nations will involve not only economic and military power, but also cultural strength. Through our culture and values, we create a following among nations and earn our international status. Our national leaders ask us to be self-reliant and innovative in responding to the challenges of this era of cultural competition. I believe that China, with thousands of years of glorious civilization, will do as brilliantly as our young athletes to transform itself into a nation of energy, vigour, self-reliance and innovation.
And now, a toast: To the prosperity of our country; to the innovative spirit of the Chinese nation.
Ends/Sunday, October 1, 2006
Issued at HKT 09:31
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