Of the 99 participants, 78 have formally handed in their registration forms, which require at least 10 nominations for the registration to be effective.

The registration office in Sheung Wan witnessed the active participation in the Hong Kong NPC election by Hong Kong people from all walks of life, who all believe that running for the election is an honorable mission.

Tsang Hin-chi, chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce of Hong Kong, expressed confidence about winning out in the election as he has faithfully fulfilled his responsibilities as an NPC deputy.

Tsang noted that he cherishes deep feelings toward Hong Kong, where he flourished as an entrepreneur. He pledged to continue to air Hong Kong people's suggestions to the NPC and do a still better job.

Cheng Yiu-tong, chairman of the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions (FTU), pointed out that since the NPC is the top organ of state power, HKSAR deputies to the NPC not only enjoy the right to participate in the management of state affairs, but also function as a bridge that enhances exchanges between the HKSAR and the mainland, and helps implement the principle of "One Country, Two Systems."

According to the methods for electing HK deputies to the 10th National People's Congress which will convene its first session early next year, contestants must have obtained at least 10 nominations for their registration to be effective. It is scheduled that a total of 36 deputies will eventually be elected on Dec. 3 by the 953-member Conference for Electing Deputies of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to the 10th National People's Congress (NPC) of China.

(Xinhua News Agency November 19, 2002)