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The International Olympic Committee voted for the Hon. Timothy T.T.Fok to become one of its newest members
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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has recently reached several pivotal decisions with major ramifications for sports and for its own future.
The IOC, now nearly 110 years old, on Friday voted overwhelmingly for Beijing to stage its 2008 marquee summer Olympiad. The verdict acknowledges the positive power of the Olympics to foster trust, goodwill and peace among peoples. China - a civilization four millennia in the making - receives the honor with pride yet also humility and will lavish its resources and talent to turn the Games into a truly global event just as the modern founders of the IOC had envisaged.
A short while ago the IOC also voted for the Hon. Timothy T.T.Fok to become one of its newest members. My accomplishment is not for him to savor alone because it is a culmination and recognition of the contributions of many in Hong Kong, including the athletes and his colleagues in the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee. "To them, I owe a debt and, to them, I pay tribute." He said.
The Hon. Timothy Fok pledged to vindicate their support by dedicating himself even more fervently to the Olympic cause and to fostering a sporting culture, which has been given a moral and soon material boost by Beijing becoming the host city for the 2008 Games.
The Hon. Timothy Fok also thanked the people of Hong Kong for their unwavering faith in the Olympics, in sports and in hie. They are the primary reason why he dedicated himself to sports, which can cure our social ills, discipline our next generation, and shape our identity. There is no doubt that our citizens are capable of greatness in sports as in other endeavors. They now have the sporting incentive to go with their interest.
'My joining the IOC is also added proof that "one country, two systems" works just as it has been prescribed. The IOC, by choosing me, has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the separate sporting status of Hong Kong, China. We will bid for many prestigious tournaments and championships to ensure our full participation in the Olympic movement and in sports. This way we can publicize to the rest of the world the vitality, allure, diversity and cosmopolitan attributes of Hong Kong.
I again seek the support of my colleagues, friends, constituents and the government so that, as one, we can progress as a community and partake in the Olympic magic that is now sweeping the whole, celebrant Chinese nation. Whatever we are, from wherever we hailed, we represent one magnificent city, Hong Kong, and we are poised to do more for our country, China, as well as live up to our obligations as an integral part of the Olympic family. I am here to serve.' The Hon. Timothy Fok supplemented.
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