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Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, at the toasting ceremony of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Finale 2011 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre this evening (March 27):
Charles (Lee, Chairman of the Hong Kong Arts Festival), Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to join you once again to celebrate the successful conclusion of another Hong Kong Arts Festival. This year's Festival has been the largest so far, meeting the growing appetite for, and appreciation of, great performances staged in Hong Kong.
Since 17th February, we have seen no less than 228 performances. More than 20,000 people have enjoyed "Power Plant" at the Kowloon Walled City Park. We have also been treated to a memorable Opening Concert by Ms Cecilia Bartoli, not to mention this evening﷿s wonderful performance by another great diva: Ms Ute Lemper.
The Hong Kong Arts Festival has truly established itself as a major Hong Kong brand. It is an annual cultural highlight for locals and visitors alike. I am already looking forward to the Festival﷿s 40th anniversary next year.
The Hong Kong Government has enhanced its support for the Festival this year. At the same time, support from sponsors, patrons and funding bodies such as the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust remain vitally important.
I thank you all for your generous contributions to the Arts Festival and encourage you to continue backing this amazing event. I would also like to thank the Bank of East Asia for sponsoring tonight's concert. Thank you very much indeed.
I would like to propose a toast to the 39th Hong Kong Arts Festival.
Ends/Sunday, March 27, 2011
Issued at HKT 22:36
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