Commissioner Lu's Speech at

the FCC Consular Corps Reception

 

Honorable Chairman Christopher Slaughter,

Honorable Consuls-General,

Dear friends,

Good evening.

I appreciate very much the Chairman's invitation and the opportunity to be here and address the Consular Corps Reception. FCC enjoys high reputation amongst the Hong Kong mass media. This evening, it offers us a good opportunity to meet old friends and new, and to deepen our mutual understanding and friendship.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

How time flies, I have to say. It has been 10 years since Hong Kong's return to China, which marked the beginning of the new era of "one country, two systems".

In the past decade, Hong Kong has traversed a bumpy road-- the Asian financial crisis, SARS and avian flu epidemics, and temporary slump in the real estate market. But Hong Kong stood firm.

The past decade has also seen a more prosperous Hong Kong, and a more confident Hong Kong community, which is a result of the close cooperation between the SAR government and the Hong Kong people. Rapid economic development is maintained, which has brought tangible benefits to Hong Kong people. Overseas investors, with hefty rewards in Hong Kong, are more confident in its future.

The past decade has witnessed the policy of "one country, two systems" achieving great successes and its content being enriched in practice. Hong Kong's tomorrow is inextricably linked with the motherland. The Central Government has always attached importance to the city's development and the well-being of the 7 million Hong Kong compatriots. The SAR government, led by the Chief Executive, works actively to meet aspirations of the community, and to improve its governance capability. Hong Kong still has a sound legal system and its citizens enjoy a broad range of rights and freedom. Currently, the SAR government is building consensus within the community to draw a plan for future constitutional development. Achievements in this city in the past 10 years come as a result of the comprehensive implementation of "one country, two systems" and the Basic Law.

Dear Friends,

This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Commissioner's Office. Over the past decade, the Commissioner's Office, in accordance with "one country, two systems" and the Basic Law, focuses on promoting Hong Kong's long-term development. We give priority to the needs and aspirations of the SAR, and encourage the SAR government, by maximizing its unique advantages, to take on an important role in international trade, science and technology, and cultural arenas. We have done lot of concrete work in multilateral affairs involving Hong Kong, and in legal, consular, press and protocol matters as well. We strive to create a favorable environment for Hong Kong to maintain its status as an international trade, financial and shipping centre. We have worked hard to make Hong Kong more competitive and strengthen its presence as an international conference and exhibition centre.

Hong Kong will have both opportunities and challenges in the days to come. Just like any other region in the world, Hong Kong needs to have serious considerations on how to overcome the negative consequences of globalization, and tackle climate change and better protect its environment. I am confident that with the able leadership of Mr. Tsang, the new SAR government will take full advantage of the rapid development of the mainland and the golden opportunities brought about by 11th Five Year Plan, and engage more with countries around the world. Honorable Consuls-General, friends from the media, we hope that we will continue enjoying your support and understanding in advancing the great cause of "one country, two systems".

Now, May I propose a toast,

To a brighter future of Hong Kong,

To our friendship and cooperation,

Cheers!