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"This is not exactly of our own choosing, rather this is the way the developed world treats us. Developed countries do not impose restraints on exports of textiles and clothing from fellow developed countries. They do on Hong Kong.
"I say this with no rancour. I say it simply to underline that the scars we bear give us an instinctive sympathy for the underdogs in the developing world and their needs and aspirations.
"As a developed economy with recent memories of what it is like to be developing, we have a natural role as middle-man and honest broker. From this flows a certain standing and an ability to influence the outcome of negotiations which we would not otherwise enjoy."
Mr Miller said what made Hong Kong different was that as determined free traders, Hong Kong had a very clear view of what it wanted to achieve.
"As beneficiaries of the liberal post-war trading system, we have a very clear view of how we want world trade to operate," he said.
"We see ourselves very much as the conscience of the GATT/WTO, vigilant in guarding against and exposing breaches of the rules, fierce in defence of our rights and of wider points of principle, determined to repair the damage done by abusive use of trade remedies, ready always to work with others in extending and perfecting the grand design.
"Above all, we see ourselves as a beacon, a beacon of free trade, shining out a promise of safe passage through the reefs and shoals of unfair trade, and a counter to the siren voices of protectionism.
"What gives us our edge is our sense of purpose."
End