ladies and gentlemen, honorable judges, good afternoon.

i come from one of the most lovely and attractive areas of china, the pearl river delta of guangdong province and i'd love to say a few words about this area that is so dear to my heart.

guangdong province is a magically beautiful wonderland, with endless natural treasures. the lush and green mountains are inhabited by songbirds and exotic animals; the farm land is fertile and productive, providing all of its people with wonderfully nutritious grains and all the fruits they need to be healthy and strong. the pearl river meanders through the province and eventually comes to our beautiful seashore with crystal clear blue water, flourishing with all kinds of different fish and sea creatures. all these natural advantages help to boost the ever-expanding economy of guangdong and increase the welfare of its people.

guangdong is privileged to have such a beautiful landscape, with hundreds of historical sites and places of great interest to local people and foreigners alike. our capital city, guangzhou, is also known as "the city of flowers". everywhere you look you will see flourishing plants and blossoming flowers overflowing with vigor.

the people of guagdong are very friendly to visitors from anywhere. whoever you are and wherever you come from, guangdong people will greet you with the only language---guangdong dialect.

guangdong is also known as the chinese capital of delicious food. there is an old saying that "the only best delicacies are in guangdong.” food from this province is internationally famous. its variety of tastes, shapes and colors can satisfy even the most refined palette. i'm sure, the moment you seat yourself at a cantonese banquet, your appetite will naturally become keen and eager to taste all the numerous delicacies of the region. here are but a few i will mention in passing: steamed fish in ginger sauce, seasoned chicken, drunken shrimp, dance fish balls, fried jellyfish, roast suckling pig or duck, braised crispy chicken or squab, shark fin soup, moon cakes, refreshments and desert, and so many more. my mouth is watering just at the sound of these wonderful dishes.

i would like you all to know that there is truly nowhere in the world i would rather live and i invite you all to come discover the hidden treasures of my hometown. i would be glad to serve as your personal guide.

thank you all.