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གཡན་ཤ་བ-བན་
of freely convertible currency:
freedom to pursue prudent
budgetary policies determined by Hong Kong, in accordance
with Hong Kong's own needs; the right of companies and
individuals to own and dispœ of property and the protection
of these rights in law; and above all, individual rights and
freedoms which are the essence of your way of life.
I can assure Hong Kong's partners around the world that
the free and dynamic business environment which has attracted
them in such large numbers for so many years will continue to
Hong Kong is a going concern, with a future
flourish.
stretching into the next century and beyond.
We could not have achieved such a good Agreement
without the support and advice of many people in Hong Kong
and speaking here tonight among so many old friends, I should
like to express my thanks. I should like to pay tribute to
the Governor for the firmness of his leadership and the wisdom
of his advice; to the Members of the Executive and Legislative
Councils under the distinguished guidance of Sir Es Yi Chung (phon).
They have played a crucial role throughout this difficult period
in Hong Kong's history. The advice offered by EXCO throughout
the negotiating process was of the greatest value.
recall many occasions over the past two years in the Cabinet
Room of No. 10 Downing Street when we discussed crucial issues
together. All members of NUMELCO (phon.) made known their own
hopes and fears and those of the people of Hong Kong,
reflected to them.
I can
Your frankness, determination and sense
of public duty was of great value in the negotiations.