A ceremony was held in Hong Kong on Tuesday to kick off a string of territory-wide activities in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the International Year of the Family (IYF).

Hong Kong's Family Council, Social Welfare Department, Council of Social Service and Consortium of Institutes on Family in the Asian Region teamed up to highlight the importance of families through radio programs, workshops and joint performances.

The music video of the IYF campaign's theme song, sung by famous local singer Cheung Chi-lam, was premiered at the launching ceremony Tuesday afternoon.

Speaking at the ceremony as one of the officiating guests, Chairman of the Family Council Daniel Shek said that it was like planting flowers and trees, each family member should commit to and actively participate in their families wholeheartedly and make an effort to cultivate the family in a positive and constructive manner.

Shek encouraged members of the public to show concern for and take action to help families in need, to actively promote the balance between work and family and intergenerational solidarity.

The co-organizers will hold a Family Summit on May 15, which is the International Day of Families, and an Asian family symposium later this year to raise public awareness of family-related issues, enhance intergenerational solidarity and promote the balance between work and family.

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