FS' speech at Chinese New Year Night Parade (with photos/video)

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 2012 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui tonight (January 23):

Dear friends,

     Good evening and Kung Hei Fat Choy!

     Welcome to the International Chinese New Year Night Parade organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. On behalf of the people of Hong Kong, I would like to welcome our visitors to Asia's world city.

     Now in its 17th year, the Night Parade has become a tradition of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Hong Kong. Carrying the theme "World City World Party", the parade this year features a dazzling line-up of eye-catching floats and energetic performing groups from different parts of the world.

     The colourful elements showcased in the parade reflect the great diversity of Hong Kong both in terms of our rich culture and traditions, and our multifarious tourist attractions, including our huge variety of sightseeing activities, as well as dining and shopping options.

     This year is the Year of the Dragon. According to Chinese tradition, the dragon symbolises good luck, good fortune and prosperity. In this respect, I am glad to see that tourism has begun the year with a positive note, with visitors reaching a historic high of some 42 million in 2011.

     Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you will return and visit us again very soon.

     I wish you all a happy Chinese New Year, and good health and good fortune in the Year of the Dragon.

     Thank you.

Ends/Monday, January 23, 2012
Issued at HKT 20:18

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