Speech by CE at celebration reception of the 60th Anniversary of SFOC (English only) (with photos/video)

Speech by CE at celebration reception of the 60th Anniversary of SFOC (English only) (with photos/video)
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     Following is the speech delivered by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at the reception in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China today (December 3):

Mr Liu (Peng), Mr (Timothy) Fok, distinguished Guests, our friends in sports, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good afternoon.  On behalf of the Hong Kong SAR Government, I warmly welcome Mr Liu Peng.  I also thank Mr Liu for his staunch support of Hong Kong, and particularly of the many international sport events that we have hosted over the years.

     Today we celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SFOC).  I am delighted that so many of our leading athletes have joined the celebrations. I am pleased to see you and I congratulate you all on your achievements.

     Since its establishment six decades ago, the SFOC has been at the forefront of efforts to promote sport in our community.  The SFOC has also led Hong Kong delegations to numerous major international competitions, ensuring that our athletes, coaches and officials have the support they need to compete at the highest level.

     I commend the SFOC for its contribution to Hong Kong sport and the role it has played in our international sporting successes.

     Since 2008, it has strengthened its services to athletes by establishing the Hong Kong Anti-Doping Committee and launching the Hong Kong Athletes Career and Education Programme.  We are proud to be one of the few places in Asia that provides such services to active and retired athletes. The Government will continue to support the excellent work of the SFOC.

     With the efforts of Mr Fok and his colleagues, the SFOC will continue to foster a sporting culture and provide excellent leadership for sports development in Hong Kong.  We look forward to seeing more people in the community enjoying sports and to even greater success for our athletes on the international stage.

     Thank you.

Ends/Saturday, December 3, 2011
Issued at HKT 12:44

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