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Following is the speech delivered by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at the welcome luncheon for Sir Philip Craven, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), and Lady Craven, at Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui today (September 10):
Sir Philip, Lady Craven, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon and a warm Hong Kong welcome to all of you, especially those who are visiting from afar.
We are thrilled to be co-hosting the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Equestrian events. With the trust and support of the International Paralympic Committee, the FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale), and the Beijing Organising Committee for the Games of the 29th Olympiad (BOCOG), we have pulled out all stops to make these events truly memorable - the best ever as far as Paralympic equestrian sport is concerned.
Over the past few days, Paralympic riders from around the world have been competing hard for the individual and team medals on offer. Their determination, courage and willpower have been an inspiration to us all.
As a pluralistic, free and open society, the Paralympic values of transcendence, integration and equality strike a familiar chord in Hong Kong. Hong Kong has succeeded because we believe that there really are no substitutes for hard work, fair play, and a desire to improve. That is what we see across the entire spectrum of Paralympic sport. And that is why we are not just thrilled, but also deeply honoured, to be hosting the para equestrian athletes here in Hong Kong.
In this Paralympic year, we have taken the opportunity to help motivate our young people through involvement in the events. We believe the Paralympic Games can inspire them to learn, grow and achieve. Their participation will help them build teamwork and communication skills, as well as hone their sense of fair play and integrity. These are valuable qualities to nurture anywhere, for young and old alike. We are happy to see that thousands of students have also participated in the events as spectators and volunteers.
At this point, I must express our sincere thanks to the IPC and BOCOG for offering Hong Kong the opportunity to host the events; to the FEI for their expertise; to the Hong Kong Paralympic Committee and Sports Association for the Physically Disabled for promoting the Paralympic spirit in Hong Kong; to members of the Equestrian Committee for their unswerving support; and to the Hong Kong Jockey Club for providing us with such magnificent and world-class facilities. I must also thank sponsors for their generous support of the Paralympic movement.
Last but not least, I must express the greatest appreciation to all our volunteers and workforce. They have wholeheartedly embraced their mission, and have been unstinting with their energy and enthusiasm to make these games a resounding success. Their spirit of service and dedication makes us proud.
Ladies and gentlemen, once again, it's great to see you in Hong Kong. I very much hope you will enjoy your stay with us, and that you will also come back to visit us again in the future. Thank you very much.
Ends/Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Issued at HKT 13:30
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