Speech by FS at Palace of Champions: Fencing for Spirit Exhibition Match (with photos/video)
******************************************************************************************
Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Palace of Champions: Fencing for Spirit Exhibition Match arranged by the GDCD Association today (August 26):
Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of individuals’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Director Liu Songlin (Director-General of the Social Work Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Acting Consul General (Acting Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr Benjamin Hubin), Vincent (Chairman of the executive committee of the GDCD Association and Legislative Council Member, Mr Vincent Cheng), differentiated visitors, girls and gentlemen,
Bonsoir. It is a genuine enjoyment to join you all tonight at the spectacular Hong Kong Palace Museum for what is really a historical event– the first-ever first-rate fencing exhibit held at this renowned cultural landmark.
Tonight, this remarkable place is being reimagined– not just as a home to cherished artefacts and abundant heritage, however likewise as a lively phase for athletic quality. This smooth combination of sports and culture sends out an effective message: that athletic proficiency, like a great masterpiece, shows discipline, enthusiasm, abilities and charm.
This night’s fencing display likewise revives fond memories of the Paris Olympics, where the fencing matches were staged under the magnificence of the Grand Palais. We are advised of the pride and magnificence gave Hong Kong by our elite fencers– Ka Long (Cheung Ka-long), Vivian (Vivian Kong), and lots of others. Their accomplishments have actually motivated a generation of young professional athletes, and I’m positive that tonight will stimulate a lot more dreams and enthusiasm for this stylish and effective sport.
And tonight’s event exceeds sport. Recently we delighted in the music efficiency by a group of trainees from the DBS (Diocesan Boys’ School). This occasion undoubtedly deepens the bonds in between Hong Kong and France, through the universal languages of sport, music and shared regard, and includes colour to our dynamic ties currently in organization, art and style.
This fencing exhibit match is likewise part of a wider event leading up to the 15th National Games, which will be co-hosted for the very first time by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao this November. With simply 75 days to go, preparations are well in progress. Hong Kong is honoured to host 8 elite competitors occasions, one mass involvement occasion, and to participate in the organisation of 2 cross-boundary competitors.
In December, we will likewise co-host the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, declaring our dedication to the belief that sports are for everybody.
The Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) Government is working hand in hand with our partners in Guangdong and Macao to provide a National Games that is easy, safe and terrific. We wish to produce an extraordinary experience, not just for the professional athletes however likewise for every single citizen and visitor.
And when I mention “visitors”they consist of advocates and viewers not simply from our nation however likewise from around the globe.
November will be a hectic season for Hong Kong, with a series of first-class MICE (conferences, rewards, conferences and exhibits) occasions, consisting of the Global Financial Leaders’ Investment Summit, FinTech Week, the Hong Kong Fashion Fest, the Wine and Spirits Fair, the Hong Kong Maritime Week, and a lot more. We warmly invite more worldwide visitors to join us not just for these occasions however likewise the National Games, to experience the enjoyment of high-level competitors while taking pleasure in Hong Kong’s food, culture, hospitality and all that our city deals.
This is a distinct chance to display the energy and dynamism of both Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, in addition to the enormous company chances offered throughout this fast-growing area.
Ladies and gentlemen, my genuine thankfulness to Youth We Go, the Consulate-General of France, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, and all partners and supporting organisations for making this extraordinary occasion possible.
To all our elite fencers this evening– we salute your spirit and abilities, and dream you an exciting efficiency.
Let’s delight in the thrilling matches ahead. Thank you quite.
(Please likewise describe the Chinese part of the speech.)