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Speech by CS at aircraft pull event for the 100th anniversary of aviation development in Hong Kong (English only)(with photos/video)
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     Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang at an aircraft pull event for the 100th anniversary of aviation development in Hong Kong this morning (March 17):

Norman, distinguished guests, frequent flyers, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good morning. I am delighted to join you in celebrating the centenary of aviation development in Hong Kong.

     Over the past 100 years, developments in the global aviation industry, as well as here in Hong Kong, have made our world a "smaller" place and brought us closer to our friends in other countries. We feel this today as our hearts go out to the people of Japan following last week's devastating earthquake and tsunami. I would like to express my sympathy for those affected by this tragedy and also my deep respect for the Japanese people for the way they are coping with this catastrophic event.
 
     Natural disasters, as well as other tumultuous events, bring into sharp focus the relationship between Governments and the aviation industry. Governments and airlines, our home carriers in particular, are close partners in providing emergency relief in times of need, as well as ensuring the safe return of our citizens from trouble spots. We look forward to an even stronger working relationship between the Government and our aviation industry in the future.

     Turning to our main reason for being here this morning. Today's aircraft pull event, jointly organised by the Civil Aviation Department and industry stakeholders, is a great way to mark a century of aviation development in Hong Kong. After all, different sectors of the community all pulling together have helped to establish Hong Kong as an international aviation hub.
 
     Over the years, Hong Kong has been involved in a number of aviation records.  With a bit of luck, and a lot of strength pulling together, there will be a new Guinness World Record set today - for the heaviest weight of aircraft pulled at the same time.

     Perhaps the most significant landmark event in our aviation history occurred one hundred years ago. That was when Belgian pilot, Charles Van den Born, completed the first powered flight in Hong Kong. He flew his small Farman biplane a short distance from a beach in Sha Tin. It marked the beginning of Hong Kong's aviation industry.

     Today, a modern jetliner can carry hundreds of passengers and large cargoes all around the world in a safe and speedy manner.
 
     With world-class infrastructure and expertise, Hong Kong has been able to capitalise on the dramatic transformation of the aviation industry globally. And, today in our very interconnected world, fast and reliable travel is crucial to our success as a centre for business and as a popular tourist destination.

     Hong Kong International Airport itself is cherished by Hong Kong people and admired by our visitors. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of the airport community, HKIA is safe, efficient and convenient, and consistently ranks among the best and busiest airports in the world.

     We are committed to strengthening Hong Kong's competitiveness as an aviation hub. Tried and trusted initiatives include the progressive liberalisation of air services and timely infrastructural investments. New runway capacity and more liberal air services arrangements will continue to create market opportunities for both local and overseas-based airlines.

     Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased that so many young people are taking part in this aircraft pull event. All industries, including aviation, look to the next generation to continue their successful development.

     Perhaps some of you will consider a career in aviation and help to pioneer the future development of the industry in Hong Kong.

     In the meantime, I wish you all a successful record breaking attempt this morning.

     Thank you and good luck everyone!

Ends/Thursday, March 17, 2011
Issued at HKT 11:15

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