"The seven million people of Hainan welcome the establishment of the forum on the island, and will do their best to serve the forum," the governor said.

He expressed the hope that the beautiful scenery of the youngest Chinese province and its hospitable people will leave a good impression in the minds of the forum participants.

Governor Wang noted that the forum will provide an opportunity for dialog for government and business leaders as well as experts and scholars on Asia's economy, population, environment and other issues, and will help promote understanding and cooperation among Asian countries and regions.

"The formal establishment of the Boao Forum for Asia and its work will surely strengthen the economic, commercial and financial ties between Asia and other regions," he said.

He also expressed the belief that the forum will open a new chapter for friendly exchanges between Hainan, as the permanent location of the forum, and other countries and regions in Asia.

The governor wished the forum every success.

(Xinhua 02/26/2001)