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Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at the 2016 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza in Tsim Sha Tsui tonight (February 8):
Good evening, Hong Kong. Welcome world.
It is my great pleasure to join you all for this year's Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade - the 21st staging of one of the most spectacular events organised by our Tourism Board in Hong Kong.
At heart, what makes this festive occasion unlike any other, anywhere, is its setting. Right here in Hong Kong, where East and West meet, mingle and put on a show for you all to remember.
Tonight's parade is going to be marvellous and magical, a perfect showcase that is made for Hong Kong.
And that's not all, folks.
Tomorrow night there's the Lunar New Year fireworks display with a pyrotechnic profusion lighting up storied Victoria Harbour - and the imaginations of the tens of thousands who will turn up to share in this fantastic journey.
And for the rest of the week, we have events all across Hong Kong for you to enjoy.
Ladies and gentlemen, wishing you all health, wealth and happiness in this New Year of the Monkey! Kung Hei Fat Choy!
Thank you very much.
Ends/Monday, February 8, 2016
Issued at HKT 20:55
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