Tung Chee-hwa said yesterday he was confident Hong Kong would be able to host the 'best Asian Games ever'.
Speaking before the SAR delegation leaves today to bid for the Games in Pusan, South Korea, the Chief Executive said every effort was being made to bring the 2006 Games to Hong Kong.
'Given our facilities and infrastructure, human resources, organising experience and financial strength, we are confident that Hong Kong will be capable of hosting the best Asian Games ever,' he said.
At the send-off ceremony at Government House, Mr Tung also praised athletes who returned from the Sydney Olympics and Paralympics for their performance.
'We are particularly delighted to see the 'can-do' spirit of Hong Kong displayed by our athletes in their quest for new heights and the great efforts they made in setting Hong Kong records in a number of events in the Games.'
Mr Tung added that the bid for the Asian Games could unite the community.
