CS speaks on "The Chief Executive's 2017 Policy Address" (with video)
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     Following is the transcript of remarks by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, at a media session on "The Chief Executive's 2017 Policy Address" at the Legislative Council Complex today (October 11):

     The Chief Executive has just unveiled her 2017 Policy Address. It is a visionary blueprint that injects vitality, dynamism, fresh impetus and hope to propel Hong Kong forward. The Policy Address covers the full spectrum of policy areas with clear goals and concrete plans, fully reflecting the new style of "people-based" governance of the current-term Government.

     "We connect for hope and happiness" is the theme of this inaugural Policy Address. It has set a new starting point for Hong Kong on various fronts including the economy, society and livelihood. It is a new start where people here of all ages, races and sectors can connect, and forge ahead together to build a future of hope and happiness.

     The Policy Address has put forward a total of 251 new initiatives and 469 on-going ones full of new and innovative thinking. It sets out bold and decisive new attempts to address various issues of public concern such as maintaining good governance, promoting a diversified economy, nurturing talent, improving people’s livelihood, building a liveable city and fostering youth development. Apart from fulfilling the duties of a "public service provider" and "regulator", the Government will also further enhance its new role as a "facilitator" and "promoter".

     As a "facilitator" and "promoter" for the long-term development of Hong Kong, we will continue to consolidate and enhance our strengths, while giving innovation and technology a big push. 

     We will strive to provide a better environment and more opportunities for the younger generation to fully unleash their potential, move up the social ladder, help them establish a positive approach to life and inculcate in them a commitment to society, a sense of national identity, an affection for Hong Kong and an international vision. 

     Our vision is to build a caring and inclusive society, and improve the people's livelihood. We are determined to leave no stone unturned in meeting public aspirations, addressing socio-economic problems, enhancing the openness and transparency of the Government, and finally promoting the economy, identifying growth areas and improving the business environment.

     We listen, we care and we act. That is how we have engaged the public in drawing up the above policies and putting into practice the new style of "people-based" governance. As long as we stand united and continue to give full play to our "can-do" spirit, we will certainly build an even better tomorrow for Hong Kong.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Issued at HKT 13:17

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