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Following is the speech by the Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, at the Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games (EAG) Flag Raising Ceremony today (December 4):
Heads of Delegations, Athletes, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
We gather here to witness the solemn raising of the flags of all participating teams at the 5th East Asian Games. On behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, I extend the warmest welcome to all of you to Hong Kong.
It was here in this Olympic Square of Hong Kong Park, four years ago, when Hong Kong received the East Asian Games flag from Macau. Today, the presence of you here, representing all participating countries and regions, not only heralds the opening of the 5th EAG tomorrow, but also signifies the friendship and solidarity of our athletes as well as peoples in the region.
The East Asian Games offer an opportunity for us not only to compete for excellence, but also to learn from each other, in sports development as well as in other fields, not least in culture and ways of life. We have also organised a number of cultural events and exchanges during the EAG so that local people and visitors can make the most of this joyous occasion.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Timothy Fok, the Chairman of the 5th EAG Planning Committee. His enthusiasm and support has guided us from the early stage of the bidding process to now as we host the Games.
After months of preparation, I am pleased to announce that we are ready to deliver to the world Hong Kong's first large-scale, multi-sports international event. I am sure in joining our hands and working together for success, the 5th EAG will be the legend. Finally, I wish you all an enjoyable and memorable stay in Hong Kong. Thank you.
Ends/Friday, December 4, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:39
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