News Winter 2018-2019

Issued by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, met with French Prime Minister, Mr Edouard Philippe, during her visit to France (page 8).

An audience with HM King Philippe of the Belgians in Brussels (page 8).

World’s longest bridge-cum-tunnel sea crossing (55km) connects Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao (page 6). Chief Executive unveils ambitious Lantau Tomorrow Vision to increase land supply in Hong Kong

In her annual Policy Address delivered on 10 October 2018, the construction of artificial islands with a total area Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, outlined an of about 1 700 hectares. The study and design work ambitious plan to increase land supply, underlining that will begin shortly with the aim of commencing the first the improvement of livelihood and the development of phase of reclamation in 2025. the economy and transport infrastructure of Hong Kong society hinge on land resources. Lantau Island is the location of the Hong Kong’s International Airport, and Mrs Lam noted that with the Mrs Lam emphasized that the Government is commissioning of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, determined to identify and produce land and build a the transport connectivity between Hong Kong and other land reserve in a resolute and persistent manner. In cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay this regard, the current-term Government will increase Area will be further improved, making Lantau Island a the ratio of public housing, allocate more land to public “Double Gateway” to the world and other Greater Bay housing development, and undertake that 70% of the Area cities. housing units on the Government’s newly developed land will be for public housing. The Government will Mrs Lam said the land reserve to be provided by also launch a new “Lantau Tomorrow Vision”, which reclamation could be planned for building 260 000 to proposes a phased reclamation at Lantau Island for 400 000 residential units. These units, with 70% being

2 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Winter 2018-2019 Contents Cover Chief Executive visits Belgium and France 8 World’s longest bridge-cum-tunnel sea crossing (55km) connects Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao 6

Chief Executive’s 2018 Annual Policy Address Chief Executive unveils ambitious Lantau Tomorrow Vision to increase land supply in Hong Kong 2 Policy Address measures give further boost for Innovation and Technology 4

TalentS Seeking international talents – Hong Kong publishes its first Talent List 5 HKETO, Brussels reaches out to students, graduates and creative talents in Europe 5

Major Infrastructure Projects Completed Mega Bridge opens 6 Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link starts rolling 6 First venue of West Kowloon Cultural District, the Xiqu Centre dedicated to Chinese opera, to open on 20 January 2019 7

Visits and Co-operation Chief Executive’s visit strengthened ties with the European Union, Belgium and France 8 Hong Kong signed MOU with Bordeaux on co-operation in wine-related education and manpower training 15 Hong Kong Airport Authority and Aéroports de Paris signed two co-operation agreements 16 Financial Secretary forged closer co-operation with Ireland 17 Secretary for Labour and Welfare’s visit to Ireland 20 First European-designed flower-themed garden in Hong Kong 21 Hong Kong’s maritime delegation at Posidonia 2018 22 WTO Members commended Hong Kong, China for its free trade regime 22

Arts and Heritage Tai Kwun – heritage building transformed into new arts landmark 23 The Murray – from government offices to luxury hotel 24 Reclaimed land near the islands of Kau Yi Chau (pictured) and Hei Ling Chau, in the eastern waters of Business Lantau Island, will provide a housing and economic The Mainland and Hong Kong enhance their free trade agreement – zero tariff on all hub in the next 20 to 30 years. Hong Kong goods from 1 January 2019 25 Hong Kong is ideal hub for Fintech and Greater Bay Area offers huge opportunities, public housing, could accommodate a Dutch companies told 26 population of 700 000 to 1.1 million, HKETO, Brussels reached out to entrepreneurs at three seminars in Italy 27 and create 340 000 jobs for the coming Events in The Hague to celebrate 40th anniversary of Netherlands Hong Kong Business 20 to 30 years. The Government Association 28 anticipates the first batch of residential Business Forum in Galway, Ireland: CEPA - A smart way to do business with China units could be available for intake in through Hong Kong 29 2032. Events Supported by HKETO, Brussels Mrs Lam added that the Lantau Talented young oboist from Hong Kong shone at Rome Chamber Music Festival 29 Tomorrow Vision is a priority area of Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festivals in Antwerp, Dublin and Barcelona 30 the current-term Government and she Oxfam Trailwalker – celebrating Hong Kong’s “can-do” spirit in Belgium 32 would set up a dedicated co-ordination Hong Kong showcased its street food culture at Lyon Street Food Festival 33 office directly accountable to the Chief Hong Kong films promoted at five festivals, in Italy, Spain and Greece 34 Executive, to steer the overall direction Hong Kong artist’s exhibition in Liège has been well received by the public 35 as well as co-ordinate and monitor the planning and implementation of the Upcoming Events programme. “Legends of Lion Dance” presents Hong Kong cultural heritage exhibition in Antwerp 36

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 3 Policy Address measures give further boost for Innovation and Technology

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Innovation and Technology, Mr Nicholas W Yang (right), greeted the Vice Mayor of Shenzhen Municipality, Mr Ai Xuefeng, before the fourth meeting of the Joint Task Force on the Development of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park in the Loop on 12 November 2018.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, proposed a being established is Health@InnoHK on healthcare series of measures in her 2018 Policy Address delivered technologies. on 10 October 2018 to advance the development of innovation and technology (I&T). The measures include – In addition, Hong Kong is actively strengthening co- operation with Mainland China and overseas. Two • injecting HK$20 billion (EUR 2.2 billion) into the agreements between Hong Kong and Mainland China Research Endowment Fund set up by the Research were signed in September 2018 which provide for the Grants Council, launching a new Research Matching two sides to enhance co-operation in six key areas, Grant Scheme with a total commitment of HK$3 including scientific research, development of platforms, billion (EUR 333 million) and setting up fellowship nurturing of talents, transfer of results and incubation of schemes to strengthen the pool of talent in research the I&T industry, integration into national development and I&T in Hong Kong; strategies, and cultivation of an I&T ambience.

• allocating HK$2 billion (EUR 222 million) for Moreover, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) launching a Re-industrialisation Funding Scheme has entrusted Hong Kong company SenseTime Group and earmarking an additional HK$2 billion (EUR 222 Limited to establish the “National Open Innovation million) for the Hong Kong Science and Technology Platform for Next Generation Artificial Intelligence on Parks Corporation to identify suitable land for Intelligent Vision”. The company, founded by a number of building manufacturing facilities required by the local scholars in 2014, has emerged as China’s biggest AI dedicated advanced manufacturing sector; and unicorn in recent years. “Its leading position in AI has now been further recognised along with its coming participation • opening up government data and introducing a pro- in the national development and planning for the next innovation government procurement policy. generation of AI, which is definitely a vote of confidence in Hong Kong’s strengths in I&T,” Mr Yang said. Hong Kong’s Secretary for Innovation and Technology, Mr Nicholas W Yang, said on 13 October 2018 that the Mr Yang added that the Government will devote more Government has set Artificial Intelligence (AI) as one of resources to enhance Hong Kong’s R&D and application its key focused technology areas. capabilities in the AI field, train relevant talents and support technology enterprises. The Government will Two world-class research clusters were being established also adopt more AI technologies in its public services in Hong Kong Science Park, one of which was “AIR@ and city management, spanning cyber security, customs InnoHK”, focusing on AI and robotics technologies. inspection and transport. A new big data analytics platform Good progress is being made and the first batch of will be built by 2020 to enable real-time data sharing research institutions would start moving into the cluster among government departments, encouraging further in the second half of 2019. The other research cluster development of AI applications and big data analytics.

4 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Seeking international talents Hong Kong publishes its first Talent List

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government under the Talent List under the Quality Migrant Admission promulgated, for the first time, a Talent List on 28 October Scheme (QMAS) within its existing annual quota of 2018 which highlights specific professions needed most 1 000. Successful applicants under the QMAS are not for Hong Kong’s economic development. required to have secured an offer of local employment for settlement in Hong Kong. For applicants who meet Aiming to attract quality people from around the world in a the specifications of the respective profession under the more effective and focused manner to support Hong Kong’s Talent List, bonus marks will be given under the General development as a high value-added and diversified economy, Points Test of the QMAS. the Talent List contains 11 professions, and was drawn up after extensive consultation with the stakeholders. For more information on why you should consider Hong Kong to further your education or your career, information on immigration facilitation and the Immigration facilition will be provided to eligible persons Talents List, please go to https://www.talentlist.gov.hk/en/

HKETO, Brussels reached out to students, graduates and creative talents in Europe

In Barcelona the Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Sam Hui, gave several presentations at Pompeu Fabra University, briefing students on postgraduate study and work opportunities in Hong Kong as well as the various talent admission schemes, and the vibrancy of Hong Kong which makes it a good destination for overseas talents.

At Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece’s largest university, the Assistant Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Jeffrey Chim, gave a presentation about the excellent study and career opportunities Hong Kong offers to international students. He encouraged students to look into the study possibilities and the different schemes offered by the HKSAR Government and Hong Kong’s tertiary institutions. In addition Mr Chim informed them of Hong Kong’s latest developments and policies which promote talent admission, including the immigration facilitation measures.

Assistant Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Jeffrey Chim, encouraged The HKETO, Brussels also reached out to encourage creative students at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki to look into Hong Kong talents in Europe to grasp the career opportunities offered study and career possibilities. by Hong Kong’s vibrant creative industries. Speaking at the Salento International Film Festival in Tricase on 6 The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels September 2018, the Deputy Representative of HKETO, (HKETO, Brussels) has been reaching out to students and Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, encouraged creative talents graduates in Europe as part of the efforts of the Hong in Italy to consider seizing the opportunities available Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government in Hong Kong for experienced professionals in the film, to attract overseas talents to Hong Kong. HKETO, Brussels digital entertainment and music industries. Taking the visited Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona on 8 opportunity to officiate at a Hong Kong Reception at the November 2018 and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Casa Asia Film Festival in Barcelona on 8 November 2018, on 20 November 2018 to take part in their student Mr Sam Hui also promoted Hong Kong’s creative and film career days and inform students of study and career industries and the opportunities in Hong Kong for talents development opportunities in Hong Kong. in the creative and film sectors.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 5 The Hong Kong Link Road of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Mega Bridge Opens

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge - the world’s longest for environmental protection and unique building bridge-cum-tunnel sea crossing - opened to traffic on 24 techniques to overcome project challenges. Construction October 2018, after its ceremonial opening by President took nine years. Xi Jinping in Zhuhai the previous day. The bridge brings the three cities within an hour’s A masterpiece of engineering, the 55 km mega bridge commute and most major towns and cities of the western features a dual three-lane carriageway, with a 23 km Pearl River Delta within a three-hour commute of Hong sea viaduct and 7 km sub-sea tunnel which allows the Kong. It will foster the flow of people, goods and capital, passage of giant container vessels in the busy Pearl River integrate the prosperous Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Estuary. It is about 20 times the length of San Francisco’s Greater Bay Area and strengthen Hong Kong’s position Golden Gate Bridge. Engineers used innovative methods as a trade and logistics hub.

Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link starts rolling

On 23 September 2018, the first Vibrant Express high speed train, carrying 500 passengers, departed from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station for Shenzhenbei Station, marking the opening of the Hong Kong section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link. The new service, which connects Hong Kong to the over 25,000 km national high speed rail network, offers a fast, convenient, comfortable cross-boundary connection to 44 Mainland destinations.

Passengers boarded the first train (G5736) departing from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station for Shenzhenbei Station at 7am on 23 September 2018.

6 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 The 40-hectare West Kowloon Cultural District. The Xiqu Centre is on the far right of the waterfront. The M+ Museum for contemporary arts is the building under construction right of centre with the yellow band across it. First venue of West Kowloon Cultural District, the Xiqu Centre dedicated to Chinese opera, to open on 20 January 2019

The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority announced seminar hall. Located on the eastern edge of the 40- that the Xiqu Centre - the first venue to be completed at hectare harbourfront West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong’s emerging new cultural district - would open the building’s striking design, created by Bing Thom on 20 January 2019. Dedicated to all things connected Architects (now Revery Architecture) and Ronald Lu with the rich traditional Chinese art form of Xiqu, or Architects, was inspired by traditional Chinese lanterns, Chinese opera, the Xiqu Centre houses a Grand Theatre, and the façade resembles parted stage curtains. a Tea House Theatre, eight professional studios and a

A night view of the stunning Xiqu Centre dedicated to Chinese opera. Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 7 Chief Executive’s visit strengthened ties with the European Union, Belgium and France

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, met with President of the European Commission, Mr Jean-Claude Juncker in Brussels.

The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special will inject new impetus into the city’s economy. Hong Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mrs Carrie Lam, visited Kong is also set to become a global hub for innovation Belgium and France from 14 to 22 June 2018, to further and technology. She encouraged European companies, strengthen Hong Kong’s close ties with the two countries start-ups and scientific and research institutions to and the European Union (EU). In Brussels, Bordeaux, explore the huge opportunities of these new markets Marseille and Paris, Mrs Lam met with senior government through Hong Kong. officials, business people, academics, scientists and representatives of cultural institutions, and in France she During her visit, Mrs Lam visited the Musée Magritte witnessed the signing of two co-operation agreements, in Brussels and the Rodin Museum and the Musée du one on wine and food tourism promotion and the Louvre in Paris. The renovated Hong Kong Museum of other on establishing a research centre for infection, Art and the M+ Museum for contemporary arts in the immunology and personalised medicine at the Hong Kong West Kowloon Cultural District will become world-class Science Park. She also attended a ceremony on delivery museums in the future and Hong Kong looks forward to of helicopters for the Government Flying Services of the working with overseas institutions to bring art works to HKSAR Government at Airbus Helicopters during her visit Hong Kong for exhibition. to Marseille.

Mrs Lam briefed her interlocutors on the latest Belgium developments in Hong Kong, and said that since the return to the Motherland, Hong Kong has successfully Mrs Lam started her visit programme in Brussels from implemented “One Country, Two Systems”, “Hong Kong 14 to 15 June 2018, where she had an audience with people administering Hong Kong” and a high degree of HM King Philippe of the Belgians and visited the Belgian autonomy. Hong Kong people’s freedom and rights are Parliament, guided by the President of the Chamber of safeguarded under the Basic Law, and the rule of law and Representatives, Mr Siegfried Bracke. judicial independence are as robust as ever. Mrs Lam said that Hong Kong is determined to play an important role in At the European Commission, she met with President, the national Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong- Mr Jean-Claude Juncker, and Vice President and High Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development, which Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and

8 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Mrs Carrie Lam met with Vice President of the European Commission and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms Mrs Carrie Lam met with the President of the Belgian Chamber of Federica Mogherini. Representatives, Mr Siegfried Bracke.

Security Policy, Ms Federica Mogherini. She noted that and technology, the Belt and Road Initiative and Hong Kong has close ties with the EU with a Structured the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Dialogue being held every year. Noting that Hong Kong, Development. She welcomed European enterprises and which has been a staunch supporter of free trade, start-ups to establish a presence in Hong Kong and ride signed a Free Trade Agreement and a related Investment on its unique advantages to grasp the vast business Agreement with the Association of the Southeast Asian opportunities in Mainland China and Asia. Nations last year, she hoped to commence discussion with the EU on an investment agreement. She welcomed Guests of the business luncheon included Belgian Deputy scientific and research institutions from the EU to develop Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign in Hong Kong, and hoped that youth exchanges with EU Trade and European Affairs, Mr Didier Reynders, and countries can be enhanced, including the launch of more European Commissioner for Trade, Ms Cecilia Malmström. working holiday schemes with EU member states. Mr Reynders said that Belgian companies continue to appreciate Hong Kong as one of the freest economies At a business luncheon co-organised by the European in the world, based on the rule of law, independent Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and the Hong judiciary, free flow of information and as an important Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, Mrs Lam connector to Mainland China. He said that these briefed the guests on the growing relations between elements underpin the strong relation between Hong Hong Kong and the EU, initiatives to promote innovation Kong and Belgium as well as the EU. Ms Malmström said

At a business luncheon in Brussels, Mrs Carrie Lam (third left) with (from left to right) the Chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Mr Robert Agnew; European Commissioner for Trade, Ms Cecilia Malmström; Belgian Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Didier Reynders; the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, Ms Shirley Lam; and the Head of the EU Office to Hong Kong and Macao, Ms Carmen Cano.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 9 At a cocktail in Brussels organised by Cathay Pacific Airways and supported by the Airport Authority Hong Kong, Mrs Carrie Lam (fourth right); the Chief Executive Officer of Cathay Pacific, Mr Rupert Hogg (fourth left); the Director- General for Mobility and Transport of the European Commission, Mr Henrik Hololei (third left); the Belgian Minister of Finance, Mr Johan Van Overtveldt (third right); the Deputy Director of Aviation Development of Airport Authority Hong Kong, Ms Vivian Cheung (second right), and other officiating guests proposed a toast.

Mrs Carrie Lam (third left) and Ms Shirley Lam (first left) met with the management of GSK Vaccines at its headquarters in Wavre of Belgium.

<-- Mrs Carrie Lam visited the Musée Magritte in Brussels.

that Hong Kong is one of the most important partners Bordeaux of the EU in the Asia-Pacific region. She praised Hong Kong’s openness, and described Hong Kong as one of Mrs Lam started her visit to France in Bordeaux on 16 the most significant financial centres and trade ports June 2018, accompanied by Hong Kong’s Secretary for in the world. She appreciated Hong Kong’s support for Commerce and Economic, Mr Edward Yau. the strengthening of the multilateral trading system, and looked forward to working together with Hong Kong to advocate the benefits of open global trade.

Officiating at a cocktail event organised by Cathay Pacific Airways (CX) with the support of the Airport Authority Hong Kong, Mrs Lam briefed the attendees on Hong Kong’s role as an aviation hub of the region, and congratulated CX for launching direct services between Hong Kong and Brussels since March 2018, which she believed will promote trade and business as well as cultural exchange between the two places. France In Bordeaux, Mrs Carrie Lam (centre), accompanied by Hong Kong’s The Chief Executive visited Bordeaux, Marseille and Paris Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau (first during her week-long stay in France. right), visited Château Latour.

10 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Mrs Carrie Lam (fifth right); Mr Edward Yau (fourth left); Dr Peter Lam (third left); Mr Stephan Delaux (fifth left), and other officiating guests proposing a toast at the cocktail reception organised by Hong Kong Tourism Board.

With Deputy Mayor of Bordeaux, Mr Stephan Delaux, the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair and Mrs Lam witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival. Understanding (MOU) between the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Convention and Tourism Office of Mrs Lam and Mr Yau attended a cocktail reception Bordeaux Metropole on strengthening of collaboration in organised by the HKTB, which was held on a tall ship wine and food tourism promotion between the two places. on the river bank of Bordeaux decorated with the Hong (The HKSAR Government and Bordeaux Government also Kong brand, to celebrate the friendship between the two signed a MOU on Co-operation in Wine-related Education cities established over years of collaboration. and Manpower Training in October 2018, see page 15).

Mrs Lam noted that Hong Kong is Bordeaux’s key wine Marseille market and France is Hong Kong’s largest wine trading partner, and that the trade volume has soared since Mrs Lam met with the Vice President of the Provence- Hong Kong abolished the duty on wine in 2008. She Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) Region, Mrs Caroline Pozmentier- encouraged more wine merchants from France and Sportich, and listened to the sharing of experience by Bordeaux to participate actively in Vinexpo Hong Kong, representatives of local enterprises in exploration of the Hong Kong and Asian markets as well as co-operation with Chinese enterprises. Noting that the PACA region and Hong Kong have a lot in common, with both places being major ports in the world having vibrant maritime and logistics industry and tourism, Mrs Lam said she looks forward to enhanced exchanges and collaboration between the two places, in particular on innovation and technology development. She expressed the hope that co-operation between universities and institutes from the two places as well as collaboration in terms of research and development would be strengthened.

Mrs Lam then headed for Airbus Helicopters where Witnessing the signing in Bordeaux of the MOU on Wine and Food Tourism she accepted three new H-175 helicopters on behalf Promotion by Executive Director of HKTB, Mr Anthony Lau and the Deputy of the Government Flying Service (GFS) of the HKSAR Mayor of Bordeaux, Mr Stephan Delaux are, (back row, from left to right) Government. Praising the GFS for serving in all kinds of the Chairman of HKTB, Dr Peter Lam; Mr Edward Yau; and Mrs Carrie Lam. emergency operations, she noted that it has conducted

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 11 Mrs Carrie Lam, accompanied by Captain Michael Chan, examined the helicopters at Airbus Helicopters.

many rescue operations in Hong Kong and the South China Sea. Also attending the ceremony was the State Secretary to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, who said in his address that he treasures the long-standing and close co-operation relationship between France and Hong Kong.

Mrs Lam also toured Airbus Helicopters to learn about the factory operation and the facility for flight simulation training, where the GFS regularly sends its pilots to receive training.

In Marseille, Mrs Carrie Lam, the Controller of Government Flying Service of the HKSAR Government, Captain Michael Chan (first left), the CEO of Airbus Paris Helicopters, Mr Bruno Even (first right), and the State Secretary to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne (second In Paris, Mrs Lam met with the French Prime Minister, right), at the helicopter delivery ceremony at Airbus Helicopters. Mr Edouard Philippe, and with the French Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Jean-Yves Le Drian. She expressed the hope that the Prime Minister and other French senior government officials will visit Hong Kong in the future. Noting that France supports China’s Belt and Road Initiative, she looked forward to working with different sectors in France to seize future opportunities. At a meeting with the President of Île de France region, Mrs Valérie Pécresse, Mrs Lam said that Paris and Hong Kong have a lot of room for co-operation in areas including investment, innovation and technology, culture and youth exchanges. She particularly introduced the development In Marseille, Mrs Carrie Lam met with the Vice President of Provence-Alpes- of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Côte d’Azur Region, Mrs Caroline Pozmentier-Sportich (second right). Ms to Mrs Pécresse, and explained how Île-de-France Shirley Lam (first left) also attended. companies could benefit.

12 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Mrs Carrie Lam met with the French Prime Minister of France, Mr Edouard Philippe. Mr Edward Yau (first right) and Hong Kong’s Secretary for Innovation and Technology, Mr Nicholas W Yang (second right) also attended.

Mrs Carrie Lam met with the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Jean-Yves Le Drian. Mr Edward Yau (second left) also attended.

Mrs Carrie Lam met with the President of the Île-de-France region, Mrs Valérie Pécresse. -->

Mrs Lam visited the French National Assembly and Evaluation of Scientific and Technological Options and attended a luncheon hosted by the President of the Fields Medalist, Mr Cédric Villani, to learn about the France-China Friendship Group of the French National French experience and exchange views on such areas as Assembly, which was also joined by the Vice-President research and development of artificial intelligence, open of the French National Assembly, Ms Carole Bureau- data, promotion of STEM education and attracting talent Bonnard. on scientific research.

Accompanied by Hong Kong’s Secretary for Innovation Mrs Lam spoke at three business events during her and Technology, Mr Nicholas W Yang, Mrs Lam met with visit to Paris, namely a business luncheon on the Belt the Vice President of the French Parliamentary Office for and Road Initiative organised by the Hong Kong Trade

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 13 Mrs Carrie Lam attended a lunch hosted by the President of the France-China Friendship Group of the French National Assembly, Mr Buon Huong Tan (third left). The Vice President of the National Assembly, Ms Carole Bureau-Bonnard (second right), also attended.

Development Council, a Hong Kong-Guangdong-Macao the Hong Kong Science Park. Institut Pasteur, which has Joint Promotion Seminar on Bay Area Development at been collaborating with the HKU, is committed to helping Business France and the MIPIM Proptech Europe 2018 prevent and treat diseases, mainly those of infectious forum, where she briefed participants on Hong Kong’s origin, through researches. Mrs Lam said that Hong advantages in innovation and technology. Mrs Lam also Kong has clear advantages in healthcare technologies addressed diplomats, academics and business people at and that collaboration with Institut Pasteur will help a breakfast organised by Institut Montaigne. both parties boost the relevant development, creating mutual benefits. Mrs Lam, Mr Yang and Mr Yau went to Institut Pasteur where Mrs Lam, together with the President of Institut Mrs Lam and the other officials visited business Pasteur, Professor Stewart Cole, witnessed the signing of incubator for start-ups Station F, which with an area a MOU between Institut Pasteur, the University of Hong of about 34 000 square metres is one of the world’s Kong (HKU) and the Hong Kong Science and Technology largest start-up facilities. In addition, Mrs Lam visited Parks Corporation on establishing a research centre for Ecole Polytechnique at Paris-Sarclay and Sorbonne infection, immunology and personalised medicine at University.

Witnessing the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at Institut Pasteur on 21 June 2018 were Mrs Carrie Lam (back row, centre); Mr Nicholas W Yang (back row, second left) Mr Edward Yau (back row, first right). Signing are the Dean of the Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong, Professor Gabriel Leung (front row, left); the Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Mr Albert Wong (front row, right); and the Mrs Carrie Lam, accompanied by Mr Edward Yau (second left) and Mr President of Institut Pasteur, Professor Stewart Cole (front row, centre). Nicholas W Yang (third left), toured the Louvre museum.

14 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Hong Kong signed MOU with Bordeaux on co- operation in wine-related education and manpower training

Mr Edward Yau (third right) and Mr Patrick Seguin (third left) are pictured with the Managing Director of the Chamber, Mr Pascal Faugere (first left), the Deputy Mayor of Bordeaux, Mr Stephan Delaux (second left), the President of the Bordeaux Wine Council, Mr Allan Sichel (second right), and the Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macao, Mr Alexandre Giorgini (first right).

Hong Kong and Bordeaux signed a Memorandum of manpower needs. Possible areas of collaboration include Understanding (MOU) on Co-operation in Wine-related networking, student and staff exchange programmes, Education and Manpower Training in Hong Kong on 27 scholarships and study missions. October 2018. The signatories are Hong Kong’s Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward With the strong presence of Bordeaux wines in Hong Yau, and visiting President of the Chamber of Commerce Kong, the MOU builds on that foundation and broadens and Industry Bordeaux Gironde, Mr Patrick Seguin. the scope of wine business-related cooperation between the two places. Hong Kong is Asia’s wine hub and a Hong Kong and Bordeaux signed their first MOU on wine in wine free-port, and has a strong demand for talents 2008. This latest MOU seeks to strengthen education and with expertise in fine wines and culinary arts. Mr Yau training on wine-related subjects through encouraging looks forward to aspiring young people in Hong Kong partnership between relevant training institutes in making the best out of new training opportunities in Bordeaux and Hong Kong with a view to meeting industry Bordeaux.

The Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival celebrated its 10th edition with world-class food, drinks and entertainment and 450 booths from 25 to 28 October 2018.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 15 Mr Fred Lam, CEO of AAHK, and Mr Augustin de Romanet, Chairman and CEO of Groupe ADP, signed the two MOUs at the Paris Air Forum. Hong Kong Airport Authority and Aéroports de Paris signed two co-operation agreements

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) and Groupe ADP facilitate the transport of fast-growing cargo segments such signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) on 21 as e-commerce, temperature-controlled goods as well as June 2018 on strengthening cooperation between Hong luxury products. Both airports will share experience, best Kong International Airport (HKIA) and Paris Charles de practices and information of common interest to enhance Gaulle (CDG) Airport in airport management, aviation safety, security, reliability and efficiency of air cargo development and air cargo development. development. The two airports have also attained IATA CEIV Pharma certification, a global standard on competency The two MOUs were signed by Mr Fred Lam, Chief Executive and preparedness in handling pharmaceuticals. Officer of AAHK, and Mr Augustin de Romanet, Chairman and CEO of Groupe ADP, at the Paris Air Forum. Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, said the collaboration is set to boost Hong Kong’s role as an Currently, there are an average of 44 flights between aviation hub in the region and is yet another testimony HKIA and CDG every week. In 2017, these flights carried that there is limitless potential for co-operation between more than 480 000 passengers and 39 700 tonnes of cargo Hong Kong and France in various aspects. between the two cities.

Under the MOU on airport management and aviation Advanced Master in Air Transport development, the two airports will cooperate to improve Management Programme performance in efficiency, safety, security, quality and environmental protection. They also agreed to enhance During the event, another MOU was signed detailing network connectivity and share experiences through sponsorships that will enable a second batch of civil a staff exchange programme to further support talent aviation staff from countries looking for capacity building development. Both airports will also explore opportunities in aviation to participate in the Advanced Master in Air to join forces in Mainland China. Transport Management Programme, which is jointly delivered by the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy The MOU on air cargo development aims to promote and and Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile.

16 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, told participants in the “Routes to Growth” seminar that Hong Kong’s ever-deepening economic integration with Mainland China would create more opportunities that are available to no one else. Financial Secretary forges closer cooperation between Hong Kong and Ireland

Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, visited has been serving as the unique gateway connecting Dublin from 31 May to 2 June 2018 to foster closer international investors and the vast market in the Mainland economic cooperation between Hong Kong and Ireland, of China for decades. Hong Kong’s ever-deepening in particular in the areas of financial services, financial economic integration with the Mainland would create technology (Fintech) and the aircraft leasing business. more opportunities that are available to no one else, including the Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong- Mr Chan began his visit on 31 May 2018 by meeting a Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development. group of Irish Fintech companies already operating in Hong Kong or looking to establish offices in Hong Kong. He updated them on the city’s latest efforts to support Fintech development and encouraged them to make good use of Hong Kong’s platform in expanding their operations in Hong Kong, the Mainland of China and Asia.

The Financial Secretary gave a keynote speech at the “Routes to Growth – Creating opportunities between Hong Kong and Ireland as Financial Services and Aviation Hubs” seminar, jointly organized by Invest Hong Kong and Enterprise Ireland. He introduced Hong Kong’s latest development in Fintech and aircraft leasing business. Also attending the seminar was the Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection of Ireland, Mr Pat Breen. Mr Paul Chan met with the Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection of Ireland, Mr Pat Breen, another Speaking at the seminar, Mr Chan said that Hong Kong major speaker at the “Routes to Growth” seminar.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 17 Mr Paul Chan (first right), and the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam (second Mr Paul Chan (left), with the Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, Mr right), with representatives of the Irish Funds Industry Association. Philip Lane.

Hong Kong and Ireland can step up collaboration in the Mr Chan attended a roundtable discussion organised by areas of Fintech and aircraft leasing, and work together Sustainable Nation Ireland with Mr D’Arcy and a group in capitalising the massive opportunities ahead. of key figures in Irish financial services, to discuss the latest development of green finance in both places. Mr Mr Chan had a meeting with the Irish Funds Industry Chan said that a Government Green Bond Programme Association during which he was briefed on the latest will soon be launched, with a borrowing ceiling of HK$100 development of funds industry in Ireland. He then met billion for funding green public works projects; and a with the Governor of Central Bank of Ireland, Mr Philip R Green Bond Grant Scheme (launched on 15 June 2018) Lane, to exchange views on global economic outlook and would subsidise qualified green bond issuers in using share experience in maintaining financial stability. the Green Finance Certification Scheme. He said that given the well-developed financial services in Ireland, Together with Minister of State at the Department of there are clear synergies for Hong Kong and Ireland to Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and work together in green finance. Reform of Ireland, Mr Michael D’Arcy, Mr Chan attended a ceremony to mark the launch of direct flights between He also met with the Minister for Finance and Public Dublin and Hong Kong. Expenditure and Reform of Ireland, Mr Paschal Donohoe,

Mr Paul Chan (front row, centre) and Ms Shirley Lam (front row, second left) met with members of the Banking and Payments Federation Ireland, and the Fintech and Payments Association of Ireland.

18 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 On the occasion of celebrating the launch of direct flights between Hong Kong and Dublin, Mr Paul Chan spoke at the ceremony (pictured) together with the Minister of State at the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform of Ireland, Mr Michael D’Arcy. to exchange views on global and Europe’s economic technology and Fintech. In terms of payment system and prospects. Both sides looked forward to further infrastructure, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority will collaboration between Hong Kong and Ireland in financial launch a Faster Payment System (*) that allows banks and services, trade and other sectors. stored- value facility operators to provide real-time, round- the-clock, cross-institution payment and fund transfer Mr Chan met with senior management of the National service to their business and personal customers. Treasury Management Agency and shared experience in management of public finances. He also had a meeting Mr Chan also seized the opportunity of his visit to Dublin with members of the Banking and Payments Federation to attend a gathering with the Hong Kong community in Ireland as well as the Fintech and Payments Association Ireland. of Ireland. Mr Chan said that Hong Kong strives to provide an enabling environment for developing innovation and (*) The Faster Payment System was launched on 17 September 2018.

Mr Paul Chan (first right) and Ms Shirley Lam (second right) attended a roundtable discussion with Mr D’Arcy (first left) and a group of key figures in Mr Paul Chan met with the Minister for Finance and Public Irish financial services. Expenditure and Reform of Ireland, Mr Paschal Donohoe.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 19 Secretary for Labour and Welfare’s visit to Ireland

From left: Hong Kong’s Director of Social Welfare, Ms Carol Yip; Dr Law Chi-Kwong; the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam; and the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service, Mr Chua Hoi-wai, meeting with the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection of Ireland, Ms Regina Doherty (second right).

<-- Hong Kong’s Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong attended the Joint World Conference on Social Work, Education and Social Development 2018 from 4 to 7 July 2018.

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law relevant departments and service providers to learn Chi-kwong, led a delegation to Dublin to attend the Joint about the latest developments of elderly care and World Conference on Social Work, Education and Social gerontechnology as well as to tap overseas experience on Development 2018, held from 4 to 7 July 2018. the labour force’s preparedness to artificial intelligence.

On the sidelines of the world conference, Dr Law Dr Law met with the Minister for Employment Affairs addressed a luncheon co-hosted by the Hong Kong and Social Protection of Ireland, Ms Regina Doherty, and Council of Social Service (HKCSS) to speak with social discussed the employment policies and social welfare work personnel from around the world on Hong Kong’s systems of both places. He also visited the Alzheimer promotion of gerontechnology. Society of Ireland relating to dementia care services and the Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing concerning During his six-day stay in the Irish capital, Dr Law, research facility on gerontology. accompanied by Hong Kong’s Director of Social Welfare, Ms Carol Yip, and representatives of the HKCSS, visited Dr Law also visited the Louth County Council to learn

Dr Law Chi-Kwong and Ms Carol Yip were briefed by the Director of Dr Law Chi-Kwong visited the Louth County Council to learn about its age- NetwellCASALA, Mr Rodd Bond, on the use of technologies for the self- friendly programme. Photo shows Dr Law Chi-Kwong (front row, first right); management of chronic patients in home care settings. Ms Carol Yip (front row, second left); the Chairman of the Louth County Council, Mr Liam Reilly (front row, second right); members of the Hong Kong delegation and representatives of the Louth County Council.

20 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 about its age-friendly programme which is the first of its use of technologies in taking care of chronic patients in kind in Ireland. He was briefed on how elderly-friendly home settings. initiatives were integrated into community planning, such as outdoor space, transportation, housing, employment Dr Law took the opportunity of his visit to meet with and health service. In addition, he toured the Great Hong Kong youths who had travelled to Dublin through Northern Haven in NetwellCASALA, a smart housing the Hong Kong/Ireland Working Holiday Scheme to know demonstration project, on ageing. He was briefed on the about their work and travel experiences.

First European design flower-themed garden in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau (second right), accompanied by the Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau (first right), held a bilateral meeting with the Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Mrs Sigrid Kaag (third left), to exchange views on trade-related issues.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government related issues. Both of them were pleased to see welcomes the proposed development of the first-ever more trade co-operations between Hong Kong and the European design flower-themed garden in Hong Kong, Netherlands bearing fruit. the Kaleido Park. Mr Yau also toured a Dutch flower company which Hong Kong-based event organiser, Mr Alan Fang, and Dutch supplies flower bulbs worldwide and will support the floriculture expert, Mr Ibo Gülsen, signed co-operation flower production for the proposed Kaleido Park. agreements for the tourism project in Noordwijkerhout in He visited Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn to learn about the Netherlands on 18 June 2018. Hong Kong’s Secretary the operation of flower parks and the concept of garden for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward tourism. Formerly a royal palace, Paleis Het Loo is now a Yau, witnessed the signing ceremony together with museum open to the public with baroque gardens. the Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Mrs Sigrid Kaag.

The Kaleido Park, which the organiser is considering locating at the site reserved for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s possible Phase 2 development, will offer visitors a unique horticultural experience through breath-taking floral displays. It is a timely initiative to enrich the travelling experience in Hong Kong with garden tourism, Mr Yau said.

Before the signing ceremony, Mr Yau had a bilateral Mr Edward Yau (second right), visited Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands meeting with Mrs Kaag to exchange views on trade- to learn about the operation of flower parks and the concept of “garden tourism”.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 21 Hong Kong’s maritime delegation at Posidonia 2018

In the front row, Dr Raymond So (fourth left); Deputy Representative of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), Miss Fiona Chau (third left); Hong Kong’s Under Secretary for Transport and Housing, Dr Raymond Managing Director of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association, Ms Sandy Chan (second left); So Wai-man, met Greece’s Prime Minister, Mr Alexis Tsipras, at the Head of Investment Promotion of the HKETO, Brussels, Ms Paula Kant (first right) and other opening of the Hong Kong Pavilion at Posidonia 2018. delegation members and guests.

Hong Kong’s Under Secretary for Transport and Housing, Dr exchange views on the development of the global maritime Raymond So Wai-man, visited Athens from 4 to 5 June 2018 industry and explore cooperation opportunities. to promote Hong Kong as an international maritime centre and reinforce the relationship with the Greek maritime Dr So met with the Union of Greek Shipowners, the Piraeus community. Container Terminal and Costamare Inc. respectively to exchange views on maritime-related policies and promote During the visit, Dr So officiated at the opening ceremony of Hong Kong’s role as a platform to enter the Mainland China the Hong Kong Pavilion at the Posidonia 2018 international market. Dr So also visited the Piraeus Container Terminal shipping exhibition, where he met Greece’s Prime Minister, to learn about their latest development and operation. Mr Alexis Tsipras. Posidonia is the world’s largest biennial international shipping exhibition, attracting over 2 010 Through the meetings and gatherings during the two-day exhibitors from 92 countries. During the visit, Dr So also visit, Hong Kong’s status as an international maritime centre met with various government representatives including the and its relationship with the Greek maritime community Cypriot Deputy Minister of Shipping, Ms Natasia Pilides, to were reinforced.

WTO Members commended Hong Kong, China for its free trade regime

Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) In his concluding remarks, the Chairperson of the WTO commended Hong Kong, China (HKC) again for its free Trade Policy Review Body, Ambassador Eloi Laourou of and open trade regime at the Trade Policy Review meeting Benin, praised HKC for maintaining one of the most successfully concluded in Geneva, on 28 November 2018. open and market-oriented economies in the world, and achieving robust economic growth, despite a challenging The Discussant for the Trade Policy Review, Ambassador external environment. Alfredo Suescum of Panama, applauded HKC for its commitment to the multilateral trading system. He said, “HKC’s liberal approach to trade and investment has “Members clearly recognised that there has been palpable enabled it to obtain some of the highest rankings in major progress on many issues since the last review. Members world indicators of competitiveness, economic freedom also recognised that HKC remains a role model of openness and ease of doing business,” he said, adding that “HKC and business friendliness.” He praised the very active role has set an example through its staunch commitment to played by HKC’s Economic and Trade Office in Geneva. the free markets and the multilateral trading system.”

22 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Tai Kwun – heritage complex transformed into a new cultural landmark

The heritage revitalisation project was funded by the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

The restored Central Police Station compound, named buildings, including the former Central Police Station, Tai Kwun – Centre for Heritage and Arts, is a new cultural Victoria Prison and Central Magistracy. hub in Hong Kong. The new arts complex offers multi-purpose venues for The 13 600 square metre complex, between Hollywood artists-in-residence, exhibitions, events, performances, Road and Chancery Lane, boasts a rich history, with the film, photography, music, design, culture and heritage earliest building dating back to 1841. Tai Kwun, which from Hong Kong and around the world to enrich the means “Big Station” in Cantonese, comprises 16 heritage city’s cultural life.

Hong Kong Ballet launched the Ballet in the City programme with performances at Tai Kwun at the end of November 2018. The two-year programme will feature free pop-up performances around town, imbuing the city with the beauty of ballet.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 23 The distinctive façade of The Murray. The Murray – from government offices to luxury hotel

The city’s newest luxury hotel, The Murray, has opened occupy the former office car park. Banquet halls, pools for business in Central. Designed and built in 1969 and spas have replaced plant room spaces. Luxurious to serve as government offices, Murray Building was guest rooms have replaced civil servants’ offices. earmarked for preservation under the Conserving Central initiative. The design complements the distinctive geometry of the façade, framing views of the city skyline and lush greenery Foster+Partners re-designed the architectural and of the surrounding gardens. A rooftop restaurant and interior finishes to give the solid, old building a new bar offers panoramic views, while landscaped grounds lease of life. The Murray offers 336 spacious suites incorporate a public tai chi area. At the hotel entrance, and guestrooms. Elegant hotel lobbies and restaurants a century-old tree has been thoughtfully preserved.

One of the Murray’s spacious guestrooms.

24 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 The Mainland and Hong Kong enhance their free trade agreement – zero tariff on all Hong Kong goods from 1 January 2019

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, attended the signing ceremony. Photo shows (back row, from left) Hong Kong’s Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Commerce, Industry and Tourism), Miss Eliza Lee; Hong Kong’s Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau; Mrs Carrie Lam; Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Ms Qiu Hong; the Director-General of the Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs of the Ministry of Commerce, Mr Sun Tong; Deputy Director-General of the Department of Exchange and Cooperation of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Chen Wei, witnessing the signing of the Agreement by Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan (front row, second left), and the China International Trade Representative and Vice Minister of Commerce, Mr Fu Ziying (front row, second right).

The Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership to expedite customs clearance of goods with a view to Arrangement (CEPA) has been further enhanced with facilitating movement of goods in the Guangdong-Hong the signing of the Agreement on Trade in Goods (the Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Agreement) in Hong Kong on 14 December 2018. Upon signing the Agreement, the two sides have completed The Agreement consolidates and updates the commitments in advance the objective of promoting the CEPA Upgrade on liberalisation and facilitation of trade in goods under under the National 13th Five-Year Plan, thus enabling CEPA CEPA, and further enhances the level of liberalisation for to become a comprehensive and modern-framework free trade in goods under CEPA. Starting from 1 January 2019, trade agreement covering four major areas, namely trade goods of Hong Kong origin imported into the Mainland will in goods, trade in services, investment, and economic fully enjoy zero tariff through the enhanced arrangement and technical co-operation. for rules of origin. Hong Kong also undertakes to continue to apply zero tariff to all imported goods of Mainland origin. In addition, the Agreement establishes principles of trade The text of the Agreement is available at the Hong Kong Trade and facilitation to reduce trade costs and to strengthen co- Industry Department’s website: operation between the two sides, and sets out measures http://www.tid.gov.hk/english/cepa/legaltext/cepa_legaltext.html

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 25 Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau (left), spoke at a panel session with Ms Paula Kant, Head of Investment Promotion of the HKETO, Brussels, and Mr David Marsden, Director of the UK, the Benelux and Ireland of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. Hong Kong is ideal hub for Fintech and Greater Bay Area offers huge opportunities, Dutch companies told

Hong Kong has become the ideal hub for companies to Miss Chau added that Hong Kong’s Fintech ecology develop financial technologies (Fintech) and seize the is thriving. Cyberport, which houses over 300 Fintech opportunities arising from the Guangdong-Hong Kong- start-ups involved in blockchain, cybersecurity, Macao Greater Bay Area (the Greater Bay Area), as well artificial intelligence, big data, wealth management as an attractive place for international talents to flourish, and transaction engineering, is now one of the leading the Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic Fintech hubs in Asia. and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), Miss Fiona Chau, told a group of leading Dutch entrepreneurs Asked about Hong Kong’s advantages for Dutch on 29 November 2018. entrepreneurs compared to other locations in the region, Miss Chau underlined that Hong Kong enjoys unique and Miss Chau was speaking at the end-of-year seminar unparalleled advantages as Mainland China’s premier organised by HKETO, Brussels in partnership with Invest global financial centre, a transportation and logistics Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council hub, and a major city for trade and commerce. She and the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association held emphasized that Hong Kong’s close proximity and its in Wassenaar, the Netherlands. The seminar focused on unique status under the “one country, two systems” developments and opportunities in the fields of Fintech, principle allow it to have first-mover advantage to grasp financial services, logistics for fashion and Dutch seafood the vast business opportunities arising from the rapid in Hong Kong, the gateway to the dynamic Greater Bay economic advances of Mainland China, including the Area. development of the Greater Bay Area.

“Hong Kong is indeed an ideal centre for developing Miss Chau said that Hong Kong welcomes international Fintech. After all, Hong Kong is one of the world’s talents to support its development as a high-value-added leading financial centres, ranking third worldwide in and diversified economy, and has recently published a the latest Global Financial Centres Index covering 110 Talent List which focuses on 11 professions including cities, just behind London and New York City,” Miss Fintech as well as cyber-security and other aspects of Chau said. innovation and technology (see page 5).

26 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 HKETO, Brussels reached out to entrepreneurs at three seminars in Italy

The HKETO, Brussels promoted Hong Kong as a leading business location and gateway to Mainland China at business seminars held in Salerno, Bari and Alberobello, Italy. Photo shows the Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, speaking to participants at the business seminar in Salerno on 14 November 2018.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels seminars were also supported by Invest Hong Kong and (HKETO, Brussels) co-hosted three business seminars the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. in Italy from 14 to 16 November 2018, as part of its continuing efforts to reach out to Italian entrepreneurs The Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona and promote Hong Kong as an ideal business location Chau, told participants that underpinning Hong Kong’s long- and the gateway to Mainland China and the Belt and term success are its fundamental strengths and the unique Road region including the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao advantages under “one country, two systems”. These Greater Bay Area. include the rule of law, free flow of capital and information, a business-friendly environment, a diverse and international The seminars were held in two regions in the south of talent pool, and a low and simple tax regime. Hong Kong Italy, with events in Salerno in the region of Campania, has been named consistently as the world’s freest economy and in Bari and Alberobello in the region of Puglia. as well as the easiest place to do business.

The business seminar in Salerno on 14 November 2018 Miss Chau also emphasized that Hong Kong is the most was organised by HKETO, Brussels in co-operation with trusted and resourceful partner for foreign companies Confindustria Salerno, while the events in Bari on 15 to venture into the vast markets covered under the Belt November 2018 and Alberobello on 16 November 2018 and Road and the Greater Bay Area, and to grasp the were organised in co-operation with the Italy Oriental bountiful new opportunities brought about by these Chamber of Commerce in Bari. All three business new developments.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 27 Events held to celebrate 40th anniversary of Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association and commend Hong Kong team at finish of Volvo Ocean Race in The Hague

The Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau (front row, first left), and board members of the NHKBA including its Chairman, Mr Hans Poulis (back row, fourth left), are pictured with the crew of Team Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag, including the skipper, David Witt (back row, second right), at the dinner held in The Hague on 29 June 2018.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels trade, commerce, financial services or investment; and (HKETO, Brussels) co-hosted a series of events in The in technology and innovation,” Miss Chau said. Hague, the Netherlands, on 29 June 2018 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Miss Chau added that the aspiration to build an Association (NHKBA) and commend Hong Kong’s Team international innovation and technology hub in the Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag for completing the Volvo Ocean Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area on par Race. The team was the first from Hong Kong to enter with, or even exceeding, Silicon Valley stems from the the round-the-world sailing race, and tributes were paid complementarity of the three places. Hong Kong has during the events to the late teammate John Fisher. very strong research and development capacity with four universities in the world’s top 100, while Shenzhen The events were jointly organised by HKETO, Brussels; the has advanced manufacturing capability and other cities Hong Kong Trade Development Council; Invest Hong Kong; in the Greater Bay Area are also boosting manufacturing and the NHKBA. The first was a business seminar with and electronic production capacity. Dutch companies two themes, namely the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao are welcome to partner with Hong Kong in seizing the Bay Area Development and the circular economy. In her opportunities of this very important Greater Bay Area, welcoming remarks at the business seminar, the Deputy Miss Chau said. Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, said that aspirations for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao To tie in with the Volvo Ocean Race’s support of clean Bay Greater Area Development are very high. “Within seas, the business seminar also looked at how Dutch, the Greater Bay Area, we will work with each other to Hong Kong and Mainland companies can prepare achieve a win-win situation, and the key co-operation for the circular economy, a new economic model in areas in the Greater Bay Area will include infrastructure which waste generation is minimised, and the value of connectivity in order to achieve a living circle that is very products, materials and resources is maintained for as convenient for people; market integration, whether in long as possible.

28 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 One of the speakers at the business seminar was the reception and a dinner, both attended by crew members General Manager of Keppel Seghers, Mr Ivan Christiaens. of Team Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag, which was supported by The Belgian engineering firm will, in a joint venture, Brand Hong Kong. In January 2018, Hong Kong was a host construct integrated waste management facilities at city for the first time in the Volvo Ocean Race’s 44-year an island in Hong Kong. The project will be capable of history. Speaking at the dinner, Miss Chau commended producing enough green energy for 100 000 households the Hong Kong team for its determination to finish the and help to reduce Hong Kong’s carbon emissions by Volvo Ocean Race in honour of their late teammate and 44 0000 tonnes per annum. friend John Fisher. The team’s accomplishments have reflected the “never give up” spirit of Hong Kong in The business seminar was followed by a cocktail facing difficult times and challenges, she said.

Business Forum in Galway, Ireland: CEPA - A smart way to do business with Mainland China through Hong Kong

Experts explained how Irish businesses can use Hong Kong Mainland China, the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer to grow their business in China and Asia at a business Economic Partnership Arrangement, or CEPA, under the forum in Galway held on 5 October 2018. The seminar was same conditions as Hong Kong companies. co-organised by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) in co-operation with the Galway Other speakers included China’s Ambassador to Ireland, Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) and the Irish Chinese Dr Yue Xiaoyong, Head of Investment Promotion of the Society Galway, with the support of the Hong Kong Trade HKETO, Brussels, Ms Paula Kant, and the Mayor of Galway Development Council and Invest Hong Kong. City, Councillor Niall McNelis.

Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Mr On 17 July 2018, HKETO, Brussels also hosted a business Sam Hui, spoke on how business can be expanded in reception in Vic, near Barcelona, in the wake of the Mainland China and Asia by leveraging on the free trade Asian Summer Film Festival. Assistant Representative of agreement networks. the HKETO, Brussels Mr Paul Leung, updated participants on the latest economic developments in Hong Kong, Foreign companies incorporated in Hong Kong can including progress of the Belt and Road Initiative and benefit from Hong Kong’s free trade agreement with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Information about the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) can be found at https://www.tid.gov.hk/english/cepa/index.html

Talented young oboist from Hong Kong shone at Rome Chamber Music Festival

A talented young oboist from Hong Kong, Mr Matthew Chin, took part in the 15th Rome Chamber Music Festival (3-7 June 2018) with the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels). He performed a piece by Sergei Prokofiev to full houses of 200 people on 3 June 2018 as part of the Festival’s opening concert, and again on 4 June 2018.

This was the fifth time that a young Hong Kong musician, with funding support by the HKETO, Brussels, had been selected for the Festival’s Young Artist Programme, in The Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau (left); which 21 young artists are chosen to study and perform oboist Mr Matthew Chin (centre); and the Director of the Rome Chamber Music with Festival artists in Palazzo Barberini. Festival, Ms Jacopa Stinchelli (right).

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 29 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festivals in Antwerp, Dublin and Barcelona

In Dublin, a total of some 1 000 participants in 52 teams joined the races on the two days, cheered on by some 2 500 visitors.

In Dublin, the Assistant Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Paul Leung, In Antwerp, the Festival attracted 32 teams of competitors and around 6 000 presented medals to the winning teams. enthusiastic paddlers and visitors.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, on the Grand Canal Dock in Dublin and was organised Brussels) was delighted to be the title sponsor of the Hong by the Irish Dragon Boat Association in conjunction Kong Dragon Boat events in Antwerp on 15 September 2018 with Plurabelle Paddlers, and supported by Waterways and in Dublin on 15 and 16 September 2018. Ireland and Dublin City Council.

In Hong Kong, the Dragon Boat Festival (Tuen Ng Jit in In Antwerp, the 8th Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival was Cantonese) occurs on the fifth day of the fifth lunar organised by the Rotary International, Antwerp West. month and is one of the most important Chinese HKETO, Brussels entered two boats, namely the Hong festivals with the longest history, going back 2 000 Kong Dragon and Hong Kong International Paddlers, in years. Dragon Boat racing is also a prominent sport in the races. The crew of Hong Kong Dragon comprised Hong Kong at other times of year, with an estimated 30 staff of HKETO, Brussels and their family members and 000 active paddlers. The sport is becoming increasingly friends, while the Hong Kong International Paddlers popular around the world. had a crew of expats and locals. The University of Gent and the University of Antwerp also fielded teams with In Dublin, the Regatta took place at the heart of the city, the support of the Belgium-Hong Kong Society.

30 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 In Antwerp and Dublin, visitors received booklets and information at In Antwerp, the starting shot of the races was given by the Deputy the Hong Kong booths, and could win Hong Kong brand prizes after Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau. successfully completing a quiz about Hong Kong.

--> The Hong Kong booth at the frist International Dragon Boat Festival in Barcelona.

--> In Antwerp, Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam (centre, in pink), presented the trophy to the fastest team. She was accompanied by Antwerp’s Alderman for City Development, Sports and Diamonds, Mr Ludo Van Campenhout (second left).

First International Dragon Boat Festival in Barcelona

HKETO, Brussels also supported the first International Dragon Boat Festival in Barcelona on 19 May 2018. Organised by DragonBoat Emotions, the races were held on Canal Olimpic de Catalunya, with the proceeds donated to cancer research. --> The Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Sam Hui, addressed participants in the first International Dragon Boat Festival in Barcelona.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 31 Oxfam Trailwalker celebrating Hong Kong’s “can-do” spirit in Belgium

Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau (right) at the start of the race with Minister-President of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, Ms Isabelle Weykmans, and Markus Neumann of Oxfam Solidarity.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels As the Trailwalker is originated from Hong Kong, the event (HKETO, Brussels) supported, for the fourth consecutive is an ideal opportunity to promote Hong Kong’s many year, the Oxfam Trailwalker organised by Oxfam Solidarity green areas and hiking trails. The Trailwalker is now a Belgium on 25 and 26 August 2018. worldwide event that takes place in nine countries over four continents. To raise money for charity, some 200 teams of four people made the 100-kilometre trek through the High At the Oxfam Trailwalker held in Belgium this year, Deputy Fens around Eupen, one of the most beautiful areas of Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, spoke Belgium, in a maximum of 30 hours, some continuing at the opening ceremony and gave the starting shot of their trek through the night to the finish. the trek alongside Deputy Minister-President and Minister for Culture, Employment and Tourism of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, Ms Isabelle Weykmans.

Miss Chau indicated that the strenuous effort and perseverance required to complete this arduous trail exemplify Hong Kong’s “can-do spirit”. Noting that it had taken a lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort for the hikers to prepare for the challenging event, Miss Chau encouraged them to persevere and get the best out of themselves in order to complete the 100- km hike. She also invited participants to come to Hong Kong to discover the city’s beautiful countryside and hiking trails for themselves. Two hundred teams took part in the race.

32 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Hong Kong showcased its food culture at Lyon Street Food Festival

Hong Kong was one of the guest cities at the Lyon Street Food Festival.

The street food of Hong Kong shone at the third Lyon friends in Lyon to visit Hong Kong to feel the vibrancy of Street Food Festival in France. Taking place from 13 to the Asia’s world city. 16 September 2018, the Festival was supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, The Lyon Street Food Festival aims to showcase special Brussels) in cooperation with the Hong Kong Tourism and tasty street food from different parts of the world, Board. organising workshops to give visitors a first-hand experience of the preparation of street food. The iconic Being one of three guest cities along with Montreal annual event attracts about 20 000 visitors. of Canada and Izmir of Turkey, Hong Kong presented its typical street food culture and highlighted Hong Kong’s Sham Shui Po neighborhood. The unique Hong Kong street food “egg waffles and grid cake” were the highlights and well received for their special appearance and rich taste. In addition, Hong Kong dim sum fused with French cuisine gave visitors delightful surprises.

Assistant Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Mr Paul Leung, officiated at the opening of the Hong Kong pavilion. Mr Leung said that the event was a great opportunity to present Hong Kong as an exciting tourist destination with its unique mix of east and west food culture, in addition to the unforgettable shopping experience, scenic countryside and hiking trails, as well as beautiful islands and beaches. He encouraged Hong Kong’s famous egg waffles.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 33 Hong Kong films showcased at five festivals, in Italy, Spain and Greece

Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, spoke at the Assistant Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Mr Paul Leung, spoke at the Salento International Film Festival in Tricase, Italy. Asian Summer Film Festival in Vic, Spain.

With the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Hong Kong films to Spanish audiences. “By promoting Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), Hong Kong films Hong Kong films in Vic, we hope that more Spanish were screened at five film festivals in the second half friends would get to see the artistic side of Hong Kong, of 2018, namely the Salento International Film Festival as a colourful city full of creativity and excitement” Mr in Tricase, Italy, the Asian Summer Film Festival in Vic, Leung said. Spain, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in Greece, the 51st International Fantastic Film Festival of Thessaloniki International Film Festival Catalonia in Stiges, Spain and the Asian Film Festival in Greece (20-23 September 2018) Barcelona 2018 in Spain. “The Golden Years of Hong Kong Cinema” at the Salento International Film Festival in Thessaloniki International Film Festival featured five Tricase, Italy (6-8 July 2018) classic Hong Kong films, including works by such famous directors such as Tsui Hark, Ann Hui and Jackie Chan. The Salento International Film Festival screened three classic Hong Kong films, including a restored version of 51st International Fantastic Film Festival Fruit Chan’s “Made in Hong Kong”. The other two films of Catalonia in Sitges, Spain were Dante Lam’s “Unbeatable” and Tsui Hark’s “Young (4-14 October 2018) Detective Dee: Rise of the Sea Dragon”. Hong Kong cinema was represented by Tsui Hark’s Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona “Detective Dee and the Four Heavenly Kings”, Dante Chau, commended the Festival for being an excellent Lam’s thriller “Operation Red Sea” and Johnnie To’s partner for cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and “Thrown Down”. In addition there were two Hong Kong Italy, noting that in May 2018, the Festival took Italian co-productions and a documentary about Hong Kong films to Hong Kong as part of the first Salento Week in cinema, “Category III: The Untold Story of Hong Kong the city. Exploitation Cinema” by Calum Waddell. Actress and singer Josie Ho was among prominent Hong Kong film Asian Summer Film Festival in Vic, Spain industry guests at the Festival. (17-22 July 2018) Asian Film Festival Barcelona 2018 in 14 Hong Kong productions and co-productions were Spain (31 October-11 November 2018) among the 37 films screened at the Asian Summer Film Festival in Vic. The Festival organised by Casa Asia screened six Hong Kong films, namely Kearen Pang’s “29+1”, Tam Assistant Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Mr Wai-ching’s “In Your Dreams”, Ann Hui’s “Our Time Paul Leung, warmly congratulated the Asian Summer will Come”, Wilson Yip’s “Paradox”, Chan Tai-lee’s Film Festival on its 15th anniversary. He thanked the “Tomorrow is another day” and Benny Lau’s “When Sun organizers for their efforts over the years in bringing meets Moon”.

34 Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 Hong Kong artist’s exhibition in Liège has been well received by the public

Mr Wong Chi-yung’s lighting art installation, which is inspired by mindfulness, is conceived as a meditative journey composed of a combination of light, sound and tactile experiences.

A creative lighting art installation by Mr Wong Chi-yung, the Netherlands, and Aachen in Germany. One of the the first Hong Kong artist chosen to take part in a major festival’s pillars is IMPACT Lab, an incubator of artistic inter-regional arts, science and technology festival in and technological projects which aims to bring together Europe, proved so successful with the public that the artists, academic researchers and industrialists to work organiser, Théâtre de Liège in Belgium, has decided to on a common challenge. extend the exhibition period by two months, until 5 February 2019. Mr Wong’s 20 metres by 5 metres immersive light installation “To see the world in a grain of sand”, was The International Meeting in Performing Arts and selected by the IMPACT Festival in collaboration with the Creative Technologies (IMPACT) Festival, which is Hong Kong Arts Centre for exhibition at Théâtre de Liège. funded by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund to foster experimental art, science, The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels technological and industrial collaboration, was held (HKETO, Brussels) is pleased to be one of the main from 3 to 20 November 2018 in five European cities: sponsors of the exhibition, which is also supported by Liège, Hasselt and Eupen in Belgium, Maastricht in the Belgium-Hong Kong Society.

Front row: Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau (third left); Assistant Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Jeffrey Chim (first left); artist Mr Wong Chi-yung (front row, fourth left); and Executive Director of the Hong Kong Arts Centre, Ms Connie Lam (fifth left). Back row: Director General of the Theatre of Liège, Mr Serge Ragoni (third left); and Minister-President of Wallonia Region of Belgium, Mr Willy Borsus (fourth left) at the opening reception of the exhibition on 6 November 2018.

Hong Kong News Winter 2018-2019 35 “Legends of Lion Dance” presents Hong Kong cultural heritage exhibition in Antwerp 18 January to 10 February 2019

The third “Legends of Lion Dance” exhibition organised by Moreover, there will be a special focus on Cantonese opera Tofoe Asian Events at the main public library “Permeke” highlighting the new Xiqu Centre at the West Kowloon in Antwerp, near Chinatown, will be even bigger and Culture District of Hong Kong. The third “Legends of Lion better in 2019, with more stunning lion heads made Dance” exhibition is a fun way for the whole family to find and embroidered in Hong Kong according to traditional out more about Hong Kong Chinese New Year traditions crafts, Chinese musical instruments, and explanations and welcome the Year of the Pig, which will start on 5 about the Chinese horoscope. February 2019. Admission is free, seven days a week.

Legends of Lion Dance exhibition in Antwerp 18 January to 10 February 2019 Bibliotheek Permeke De Coninckplein 25-26 2060 Antwerpen

News Winter 2018-2019

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Editor: Linda Sansbury Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 118 rue d’Arlon, 1040 Brussels T. +32 2 775 00 88 e-mail: [email protected] Design & Layout: www.webc.be