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Dr Chow, distinguished guests and philatelic enthusiasts,
Good afternoon. Welcome to the issuing ceremony of the "Heartwarming II" special stamps. We are especially honoured to have Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food Dr Chow to officiate for us.
Riding on the success of our first set of Heartwarming special stamps released in 2003, we are pleased to issue the second set with the same meaningful themes of "Love and Care" and "Celebrations". To allow senders to add a warm and unique touch by printing a photographic portrait or messages on the stamp tabs, the "Heartwarming Stamps Customised Service" is also put on the market on the same day.
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With Christmas, New Year and the Lunar New Year right around the corner, the season of gift giving is upon us and we are happy to bring you this timely gift - the second set of Heartwarming Stamps. Imagine the pleasure on your loved ones' faces when you send them these stamps that are filled with love and care and their loved ones. Look around you and spread joy around the world. There are many ways to reach out and bring happiness to others, but none more direct than opening one's heart and one's home to a child who has experienced difficulties. This afternoon, we are glad to have the representatives of three foster care families here among us to share with us one of life's most rewarding experiences.
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The holiday season is fast approaching, and, with it, comes the joy. But, for those less privileged, they may not be in a position to truly celebrate the joy of the holiday season. To show that we care, Hongkong Post is going to donate part of the sales revenue from the Heartwarming Stamps to 10 charitable institutions for the elderly or children. It takes more than one single entity to create a harmonious society, and all of us have the power to do that. Let's do it together.
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Thank you.
Ends/Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Issued at HKT 17:48
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