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Following is the speech (English translation) by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at the National Day reception this morning (October 1):
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Today marks the 58th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China, which is also the tenth National Day we have celebrated since our reunification with the country. I am very glad to celebrate with all of you such a special day for both the country and Hong Kong.
Since the reunification ten years ago, every National Day has signified our country's new achievements, breakthroughs and marvels. Over the past decade, the world has experienced numerous political and economic ups and downs. Inevitably, our country has also faced various challenges, and we rose to these challenges to emerge even stronger. The development of the country is now most encouraging, and our success in many areas has stunned the whole world.
Hong Kong is blessed to have the strong backing of the world's fastest-growing and most promising market. The entire world is eyeing the tremendous opportunities brought about by China's rapid economic development. Amid this severe global competition, we in Hong Kong must further capitalise on our unique strengths to capture opportunities ahead of others. We have already seen good results in our financial sector. As enterprises in the Mainland continue to grow and our financial system keeps improving, Hong Kong has become the most-preferred platform for them to raise capital. While the Mainland enterprises can expand their business by making use of our services, our status as an international financial centre will also be reinforced.
Our economy has now revitalised, but we should not be complacent. My team and I will keep on with our efforts to show our citizens that we are a professional, committed, experienced and energetic team. We will strive to promote our economic development and improve people's livelihood, so that all sectors of the community can share the fruits of economic prosperity.
In some 310 days we will see the opening of the Beijing Olympic Games. Hong Kong is most honoured to host the Equestrian events. When the moment comes, people in Hong Kong and Beijing will echo each other's cheers, and the Olympic flag of five interlaced rings, the HKSAR flag and the five-star national flag will fly in harmony. The fact that the HKSAR can host the Equestrian events of the Olympic Games tells us, once again, that in the rapid rise of our country, we are no longer mere bystanders but full participants in its many affairs, from economic development to sports and cultural events.
Now, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast: To the greater success and brighter future of our country and Hong Kong.
Ends/Monday, October 1, 2007
Issued at HKT 09:09
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