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2010-11 Policy Address by Chief Executive (16)
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G. Conclusion

164. Mr President, not long ago, some of our fellow citizens were held hostage in Manila.  Our hearts were wrenched as the tragedy unfolded before our eyes.  Yet, at such a sad time, Hong Kong people showed great nobility and empathy by their support to the families of the victims.  The business sector also selflessly lent a hand by providing free charter flights and other assistance.  This incident prompted us to reflect on our values, and made us realise even more the preciousness of life and relationships. Crises, man-made or natural, happen everywhere.  Happiness and harmony cannot be taken for granted.

165. Hong Kong has witnessed social division and confrontation in recent years.  Since the Asian financial crisis in 1997, challenges have come one after another, changing people's views on the goals of social development, the allocation of public resources and the pace of democratic development. Diverse views have polarised our society. The widening wealth gap has led to social tension.  As a city economy, Hong Kong is vulnerable to external economic changes.  Facing challenges and competition on all fronts, we cannot afford to be divided.  Only by embracing unity and tolerance will our society progress.

166. The third-term Hong Kong SAR Government under my leadership adopts a pragmatic and balanced approach to governance.  We strive to ease social tension and adjust our policy objectives and roles from time to time according to practical needs to uphold social justice, maintain an orderly market and protect the disadvantaged.  We are pragmatic and rational in solving problems and forging consensus as far as possible in the community.  

167. In 2005, as Chief Executive, I raised the concept of "Strong Governance for the People" as the vision of my administration.  I pledged that the Government would be decisive in policy making, vigorous in action and directed by clear objectives.  Strong governance cannot be achieved behind closed doors; it has to be based on public opinions.  When government policy differs from mainstream thinking, we must listen attentively to comments and criticisms, and make timely adjustments to avoid departing from the people's views.  In handling issues such as the WKCD development and healthcare financing, we did adjust our approach in light of public opinion.  This is pragmatism at work.

168. I have always believed that Hong Kong people are rational, and that rationality is the foundation of social stability.  I believe that every sector of our society can tackle problems rationally and contribute to social progress, democratic development and economic prosperity.

169. The constitutional reform package was passed last June.  This marked the beginning of the journey towards our common goal of universal suffrage.  We will complete the necessary legislative procedures and devise fair, open and impartial election methods.

170. We should prepare well for the implementation of universal suffrage.  Democracy is a system for power sharing.  It is not a panacea.  It works differently in different circumstances.  Only in a mature and rational social environment can it bring about good governance and benefit the people.

171. Opportunities come to those who are ready.  Hong Kong must ride on the opportunities brought about by the rise of our country, and make giant strides in our political, social, economic and cultural development in the coming decade.  This is a mission for the SAR Government.  This is a mission for every one of us.

Ends/Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Issued at HKT 12:49

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