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The following is issued on behalf of the Women's Commission:
The Women's Commission (WoC), together with guests from women's organisations and various sectors of the community, celebrated International Women's Day (IWD) 2006 at a reception today (March 8).
Speaking at the reception, the WoC Chairperson, Ms Sophia Kao, told guests that the Commission's efforts were yielding good results in such areas of work as women's participation and safety, gender mainstreaming, women's empowerment and public education.
"But certainly there is more to be done, and we look forward to your continuous support in our mission to enable women to fully realise their due status, rights and opportunities in all aspects of life," Ms Kao said.
The Commission has set the theme "Together we Build a Harmonious Community" as the goal for the next five years, which is in line with the Government's objective of fostering harmony in the community. The Commission will align its initiatives and work plans in the years ahead under the theme while building a closer partnership with women's organisations and other sectors of the community.
Its work will focus on an enabling environment for women, greater participation by women in the community, family friendly employment policies and practices, nurturing families and quality parenting education.
"Let all of us, women and men, enjoy equal rights, equal opportunities and grow together," Ms Kao said. "Let us join hands to build a harmonious and peaceful society."
In celebration of IWD, a mini-exhibition showcasing projects and programmes organised by women's organisations and community groups on women's contributions towards promoting family and social harmony was launched at the event.
"Women's organisations and community groups have made tremendous contributions to the advancement of women in Hong Kong. We are particularly impressed by their devotion and achievements, and will continue to closely collaborate with them in the promotion of women's interests and well-being in Hong Kong," Ms Kao said.
Also officiating at today's reception was the Permanent Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food and the Vice-Chairperson of the WoC, Mrs Carrie Yau.
Ends/Wednesday, March 8, 2006
Issued at HKT 17:01
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