But what harm would an opening speech have done in a case where there is no jury?

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An Opening speech was given by Ms. Farogat Azizi, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan and Ms. Shahlo Abdurahimova, Secretary General of the National Commission of the Republic of Tajikistan for UNESCO.

UNESCO: Culture Sector - Intangible Heritage - 2003 Convention

After the mayor had given his opening speech, they declined to question him - expected to last at least an hour - and moved straight to a debate and vote on the budget.

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