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The following is a transcript of the media session by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, before attending a Christmas party for children at Government House today (Wednesday):

Mr Tung: Many of you have shown a great deal of concern about what Mr K S Li said yesterday. So I would take this opportunity to say a few words about what Mr Li said yesterday. Firstly, Mr Li is a very successful leader in the business community, so what he said obviously has brought about widespread attention in the whole community as well as obviously by this government. A good environment which is conducive to business and investment is very important to Hong Kong because that's the way to ensure the recovery of our economy, to create more jobs for our people, and from that point of view we, as a government, will continue to work very hard in co-operation with all the sectors of our community. A harmonious community is fundamental to the creation of good, attractive business environment, and I know that from that point of view we will all work very hard to create this good environment. Hong Kong's success has always been based on the rule of law, and this is also fundamental in attracting both Hong Kong people's investment as well as overseas investment. So from that point of view, it is important for all of us to abide by the terms and conditions of contract. Rule of law is fundamental to Hong Kong's future. Mr Li and, I am sure the entire business community, as well as people in Hong Kong of different sectors, whether you are in politics, whether you are ordinary citizens, I am sure we'll all work very hard with the spirit that we all love Hong Kong, work very hard for a better tomorrow. Thank you very much.

Chief Executive's transcript (Chinese)

End/Wednesday, December 23, 1998

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