| Speech by Mr. Li Ka-shing
- January 7, 2005
Directors and Colleagues, Happy New Year!
It is a great pleasure to be here tonight with 1,200 of our
directors, executives, and colleagues. I take this opportunity
to thank you all for your hard work over the past year.
The world economy has seen a general improvement in 2004.
Overall, the Group's businesses have made satisfactory progress
in the face of many challenges. Our major investment in the
global 3G business performed particularly well over the past
year. I am very pleased to let you know that as of today,
we have 6.8 million subscribers worldwide. As the industry
leader, we will reach EBITDA breakeven within this year. We
have met the challenges head on and we have taken a major
stride forward.
Our property business faces equally stiff competition, but
thanks to your concerted efforts, 2004 was another banner
year. We achieved considerable success in terms of land acquisition,
project design, building completion, sales volume, and cost
control.
We have ample human and financial resources in our various
businesses to sustain growth in the mainland, Hong Kong and
overseas markets. This New Year promises opportunities as
well as challenges. Based on the strength of our diversified
businesses, global vision and excellent management team, and
complemented by our well-established reputation and strong
financial background, I believe that we can overcome any obstacles
and meet any challenges and that we will continue to grow
our businesses worldwide. I have complete confidence in our
Group's future prospects.
Thank you, and I wish you all a happy and successful New
Year.
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