CE's speech at National Day reception (with photos/videos)

CE's speech at National Day reception (with photos/videos)
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     Following is the speech (English translation) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, delivered at the National Day reception in celebration of the 59th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this morning (October 1):
　
Distinguished guests and friends,

     Today we mark the 59th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.  I am most delighted to celebrate this special day with all of you.

     This has been a year of joy and sorrow for our country; a year of mixed feelings for all Chinese people. We shared the sadness of the victims of the devastating earthquake in Sichuan; but we were uplifted by the great strength and unity displayed by the whole nation in its aftermath. Aid from all sides has helped the victims to reconstruct their homes and rebuild their lives - a demonstration of the strong blood ties and the indomitable will of our nation.

     Rising from grief, we made history with the successful hosting of the first Olympic and Paralympic Games in China. Chinese athletes won a record of 51 Olympic and 89 Paralympic gold medals. The Equestrian events co-hosted by Hong Kong were also a success. The tremendous efforts over these past few years were rewarded with applause from the whole country, and accolades from around the world. Of course, we should also mention the Shenzhou-7 spacecraft which was launched successfully last week. The space walk conducted for the first time marked another historic breakthrough in our history of space exploration. From the earthquake in Wenchuan, to the staging of the Olympic Games in Beijing and the successful launch and return of Shenzhou-7, the Chinese nation has once again showed the world our tenacity and perseverance. I am sure that having been through these trials and tests, we have emerged even stronger to face the challenges ahead, and to make greater contributions to our country's future. As we face the financial crisis, such tenacity and perseverance are particularly meaningful to us.

     This year we also celebrate the 30th anniversary of the reform and opening-up of our country. Hong Kong has played an irreplaceable role in China's "going out" process - a role that will be further enhanced in the years to come. Apart from providing capital and human resources, Hong Kong, as a global financial centre and services hub, has provided a platform for the country to engage with the world. We will continue to play a pivotal role in the reform and opening-up of the country.

     Hong Kong has undoubtedly enjoyed a wide range of benefits from the Mainland's policies, and its rapid economic growth. Earlier this year, we reached a consensus with Guangdong Province on the financial arrangements for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.  We also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on energy co-operation with the National Energy Administration. In addition, Supplement V to CEPA was signed with the Ministry of Commerce and measures on further service liberalisation for pilot implementation in Guangdong are also in the pipeline.

     Undoubtedly, in the 11 years since Reunification, Hong Kong has built a much closer relationship with our motherland. We must seize every opportunity to extend areas of co-operation and to complement each other's strengths to meet the new challenges of global economic integration.

     This year also holds special meaning for Hong Kong. We have accomplished the important task entrusted to us by the country in co-hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian events. We have also elected a new term of the Legislative Council, which marks a new page in our constitutional development. I look forward to a close and harmonious partnership with all Members so that we can do our best to serve the people of Hong Kong. I believe that, with the support and care of the country, we will together create a better future for Hong Kong and contribute more to the development of our country.

     Now, please join me in a toast: To the glorious achievements of the country; to the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation; and to a brighter future for Hong Kong.

Ends/Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Issued at HKT 10:57

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