FS speaks at Presentation Ceremony of Hong Kong ICT Awards (English only) (With photos)
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    Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Henry Tang, at the presentation ceremony of the Hong Kong Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Awards 2006 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this evening (November 22) (English only):

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

     Good evening. It gives me great pleasure to join you this evening to witness the outstanding achievements of our ICT players in Hong Kong.

     Being an open and free economy, Hong Kong is constantly subject to external influences such as globalised competition and continuous technological advancements. We must, therefore, be ever alert to the opportunities and challenges brought about by changes in overseas and position ourselves well to increase our competitiveness.

     Information and communications technology (ICT) has all along had an important role in shaping our daily lives through providing us with better access to information, knowledge and entertainment. It also provides us a growing set of tools and technologies, which have changed the way we do business or deliver public services. Most importantly, swift technological advancements enable us to stay competitive.

     The Government is committed to working closely with various stakeholders to provide the best support to our ICT sectors. The Hong Kong ICT Awards 2006, championed by the Government and co-organised by six leading organisers, is a key event to promote excellence and give due recognition to achievements to a wide range of usages and innovations.

     There are over 300 entries this year from all walks of the community, which testifies that Hong Kong does have the talent and motivation to excel in ICT development and application. And it is most encouraging to see so many local ICT innovative products, applications and services receiving the recognition they so well deserve.

     I am also pleased to note that our local ICT players have also received much international recognition. In the Asia Pacific ICT Awards 2006 held in Macau earlier this month, Hong Kongˇ¦s ICT products won six Grand Awards out of a total of 14. This has no doubt demonstrated to other players in the region Hong Kongˇ¦s achievements in ICT innovations, solutions and services.

     The Government will continue to implement proactive measures to foster a favourable technological and business environment in Hong Kong. A new version of the Digital 21 Strategy, our blueprint for ICT development, is under public consultation right now. I sincerely hope that all stakeholders will take an active part in the consultation and contribute positively to the formulation of the Strategy to improve Hong Kong's edge as a leading digital city in this globally connected world.

     Finally, I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate all the award winners and express my warmest appreciation to the Organising Committee, the lead organisations and all participants for your efforts in making this event a success. Especially, I would like to thank Chairman of Grand Judging Panel, Professor Tsui Lap-chee, for all your effort and all the valuable time you took out from your busy schedule. Thank you very much.

Ends/Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Issued at HKT 21:26

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