Speech by CE at opening ceremony of Hong Kong Global Geopark of China (with photo/video)

Speech by CE at opening ceremony of Hong Kong Global Geopark of China (with photo/video)
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     Following is the speech (English portion) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China today (December 14):

(Vice) Minister Wang (Min), Director Guan (Fengjun), Dr (Marie-Luise) Frey, Mr (Richard) Watson, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good evening.  First of all, a warm welcome to all our guests from the Mainland and overseas.  Thank you all for joining us for this exciting occasion.

     We are honoured to have our Geopark accepted into the Global Geoparks Network supported by UNESCO in September.  The designation of Hong Kong Global Geopark of China is a worldwide recognition of our significant geological heritage.  It also recognises the joint efforts of the Hong Kong community in conserving our precious geo-heritage.

     The uniqueness of our Geopark not only lies in its geological features, but also in its proximity to our metropolitan area.  Holding this event here in the bustling district of Tsim Sha Tsui also reflects our mission to bring the Geopark to the community, to our tourists and to our friends around the world.

     I am pleased that so many familiar faces from the tourism sector are here this evening.  The Global Geopark status is an international icon that will draw visitors from near and far.  We count on the support of our tourism professionals to enable residents and visitors to appreciate the natural wonders that we are so proud of.

     My heartfelt thanks to the Ministry of Land and Resources for their signal support of Hong Kong in its nomination for this world-class honour.  I also commend the local community, nature conservation groups and our business sector for their contributions to this achievement.

     Ladies and gentlemen, this new global status is a strong encouragement for us all to better understand, appreciate and conserve our natural environment.  The Government will seize this opportunity to bring nature conservation to a new level as an important element in our status as an international metropolis.

     Thank you.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the speech.)

Ends/Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 18:35

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