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FS' speech at Chinese New Year Night Parade (with photos/video)
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     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at the 2011 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade at Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui tonight (February 3):

Distinguished guests, friends from around the world, ladies and gentlemen,

     Kung Hei Fat Choy!

     On behalf of the people of Hong Kong, I warmly welcome all our visitors to Asia's world city.

     The International Chinese New Year Night Parade, organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, is now in its 16th year.  It is a key event in our New Year celebrations.

     Once again, we have a dazzling line-up of floats and performing groups from Hong Kong, the Mainland and overseas for you to enjoy.

     The theme for this year's Parade is "World City World Party".  This highlights our city's international connectivity and cosmopolitan lifestyle, as well as our great cultural diversity.  And, as many of you know, Hong Kong is always ready for a party.

     Last year, we welcomed a record 36 million visitors.  That is more than five times our population. It underlines Hong Kong's appeal as a tourist destination.

     The Hong Kong Government is committed to supporting the development of our tourism industry.

     We seek to invest in new facilities, attractions and tourism infrastructure.  We also provide the Mega Events Fund to support major cultural and sports events that are staged here.  One such event is the Well-wishing Festival at Lam Tsuen in Tai Po next week, which also forms part of our New Year celebrations.  So please do visit the Festival if you can, and make a wish that will come true for you.

     Tonight's Parade marks the beginning of a series of exciting events and activities throughout the Year of the Rabbit.

     I hope you all enjoy the Parade and for visitors to Hong Kong, please come again soon and bring your friends and families.

     May I wish you all a memorable Chinese New Year, as well as good health and good fortune in the Year of the Rabbit.

     Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, February 3, 2011
Issued at HKT 20:19

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