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Following is the translated version of the remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, to the press after the opening ceremony of World Junior Womenˇ¦s Squash Championships 2007 today (August 1):
"This afternoon, the Secretary for Development stated the Government's stance on the relocation of the Queen's Pier. I hope those protestors still staying at the Pier would leave in peace, and would not do harm to themselves, those working in the scene and the law enforcement officers.
In the past few months since the Star Ferry Pier incident, the Government has put in every effort to safeguard public interest in preserving and relocating the Queen's Pier. The Government noted the public's concern in this incident, and has every sincerity to maintain dialogue with the conservationists in future development projects.
The Government will strive to strike a balance between development and conservation so as to reflect the general feeling and interests of the community."
Ends/Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:46
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