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The success of 'one country two systems' concept
The Chief Secretary, Mrs Anson Chan, said she believed in the commitment of Hong Kong people and the enormous self interest of the incoming sovereign power in making a resounding success of the 'one country two systems' concept.
Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Asialink Centre, Melbourne University today (Thursday), Mrs Chan said she believed 'one country two systems' was an idea whose time had come, an idea fit to crown Hong Kong's long era of uncertainty, of borrowed time, with a new age of even greater dynamism.
Elaborating on the principles embodied in the Joint Declaration to an audience of more than 250 Australian academics, diplomats and businessmen, Mrs Chan said what was important was the spirit of Hong Kong's people which animated these principles.
"The spirit of the people of Hong Kong, and of the way of life which they have created, has made Hong Kong one of the most remarkable, dynamic and free cities in the world," she said.
Mrs Anson Chan arrived in Melbourne from Canberra today for the third and final leg of her week-long promotional tour in Australia.
At a luncheon organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Mrs Chan once again brought home the theme of the promotion - Hong Kong/Australia - A New Pacific Partnership.
Earlier in the day, Mrs Chan called on Governor of Victoria, Mr Richard Elgin McGarvie and Premier of Victoria, Mr Jeff Kennett. Between appointments with political leaders, she had an editorial board meeting with The Melbourne Age.
Mrs Chan will conclude her visit with yet another hectic day in Melbourne tomorrow (Friday). She will call on the Prime Minister, Mr John Howard and Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Councillor Ivan Deveson.
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