President Jiang opens Hong Kong's new airport

(HONG KONG, 2 July 1998) -- The President of the People's Republic of China, Mr Jiang Zemin, today opened the new Hong Kong International Airport at Chek Lap Kok.

Among the many dignitaries present were China's Vice-Premier Mr Qian Qichen, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, and several thousand overseas and local guests.

In his welcoming address, Airport Authority Chairman Mr Wong Po-yan warmly thanked President Jiang, Mr Qian and Mr Tung for their participation in the opening ceremony.

While paying tribute to the co-operation and hard work of the planners, architects and construction workers, Mr Wong praised the dedication and commitment of the thousands of people from the local community, the mainland and more than 25 other countries who, over the past eight years, "brought this unique and magnificent project to fruition".

"All of us in the Airport Authority, as members of the Hong Kong community, take great pride in participating in this grand project," he said. Referring to the new airport with its state-of-the-art facilities as a new symbol of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Wong said the airport is a clear manifestation of the unity and resilience of the people of Hong Kong.

Mr Wong said that the presence of President Jiang and other Chinese leaders at the opening ceremony was a spectacular event in the history of Hong Kong.

Citing that the new airport will strengthen Hong Kong's role as a major centre of international trade and finance, Mr Wong added that its operation will also enhance the development of tourism and the aviation industry in Hong Kong, South China and the Asia-Pacific Region as well as facilitating the overall growth of the region.

Ref. PR-358