News Summer 2015

Issued by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels

Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs Carrie Lam met the Secretary for Commerce and Economic European Commission’s Vice President for Jobs, Growth, Development, Mr Gregory So, visited Investment and Competitiveness, Mr Jyrki Katainen, during Burgundy to renew Hong Kong’s ties with her visit to Belgium, Ireland and Italy. (Pages 2-5) an important trading partner. (Page 6)

The Spring Glory troupe will tour the Netherlands, Belgium Secretary for the Environment tests an and Italy in October with “Backstage”, a show that will electric car at Blue Solutions during provide an entertaining introduction to Cantonese opera. his visit to France and Italy. (Back cover) (Pages 8-9) Chief Secretary for Administration visits Belgium, Ireland and Italy

The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Carrie Lam, She shared with Commissioner for Environment, Maritime visited Brussels, Dublin, Rome and Venice on 3-9 May to Affairs and Fisheries of the EC, Mr Karmenu Vella, the renew ties and update government officials, members initiatives Hong Kong has put in place to improve air of parliament, business communities and academics quality and to strengthen its role as an international about the latest political and economic developments maritime centre by providing further high-value added in Hong Kong. These included constitutional reform, the services for the shipping sector. opportunities arising from China’s Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road programmes and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank initiative (see page15).

Mrs Lam visited the Venice Biennale where she opened the Hong Kong Pavilion. On 3 May she also took the opportunity of her transit through Amsterdam Schiphol and her visit to Brussels to meet representatives of the Hong Kong community living in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Brussels

In Brussels on Monday 4 May, Mrs Lam met with Mrs Lam briefed the European Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Work, Affairs and Fisheries, Mr Karmenu Vella, about Hong Kong’s martime and Economic Affairs and Consumer Affairs, Mr Kris Peeters environmental initiatives. and addressed leading businessmen and investors at a luncheon co-organised by HKETO, Brussels and the Mrs Lam met with members of the European Parliament Belgium Hong Kong Society. at a reception co-organised by the HKETO, Brussels and the European Parliament-Hong Kong Friendship Group.

Mingling with guests before the business luncheon in Brussels, Mrs Lam is The Chief Secretary with Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Kris Peeters. pictured with, from left to right, Executive Director of the Euroclear Group Management Committee and Chief Business Development Officer, Mr Frederic At the European Commission (EC), she explored Hannequart; Vice-Chairman of the Belgium Hong Kong Society, Mr Georges opportunities for furthering the economic, trade and Legros; and Chairman of the Belgium Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet Steel. investment ties between Hong Kong and the EU at a meeting with the EC’s Vice President for Jobs, Growth, Mrs Lam seized the opportunity of her transit through Investment and Competitiveness, Mr Jyrki Katainen. Amsterdam Schiphol and her visit to Brussels to meet They discussed how Hong Kong could contribute to the representatives of the Hong Kong communities living in success of the EU Investment Plan. the Netherlands and Belgium.

2 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Summer 2015

Visits to Europe Contents Chief Secretary for Administration’s visit to Belgium, Ireland and Italy 2 Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development visits Burgundy 6 Hong Kong congratulates Burgundy on UNESCO listing of its Climats 7 Secretary for Development attends Symposium of the Hong Kong-Barcelona Exchange Platform 7 Secretary for the Environment visits France and Italy 8 Constitutional Development Government to focus on economic issues after LegCo rejects political reform package 9 Taxation Hong Kong-Italy avoidance of double taxation agreement in force 10 Hong Kong calls for its immediate removal from European Commission’s tax blacklist 10 At the business luncheon in Brussels, Mrs Lam (second left) is pictured with, Chinese New Year from left to right, Acting CEO, Wallonia Export Investment Agency (AWEX), Ms HKETO, Brussels celebrates Chinese New Year in ten European cities 11 Pascale Delcomminette; Director-Head of Department, Brussels Invest and Export Hong Kong Welcomes Ü (BIE), Ms Bénédicte Wilders; and CEO, Flanders Investment and Trade (FIT), Hong Kong welcomes talents, professionals and entrepreneurs 12 Hong Kong-EU Academic Co-operation Ms Claire Tillekaerts. Hong Kong-EU schools e-learning project ends with great success 13 Hong Kong students visit Belgium under EU Academic Programme 13 Secretary for Education meets with European Research Council in Brussels 14 Business and Finance Mutual recognition of funds between the Mainland and Hong Kong “will make Hong Kong major fund domicile” 14 Hong Kong well-placed to seize “One Belt, One Road” opportunities 15 Luxembourg private investment bank starts asset management business in Hong Kong 15 West Kowloon Cultural District Former head of HKETO, Brussels is the new chief of Hong Kong’s cultural district 16 Business events Hong Kong Pavilion at Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2015 16 Hong Kong business opportunities highlighted in Italy, Greece, Turkey and the Netherlands 17 Meeting with members of the Hong Kong community in Amsterdam Schiphol Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 18th Anniversary Business Seminar and Brussels, Mrs Lam encouraged the second generation of Chinese Hong Kong and Dinner in Rotterdam 18 permanent residents who have emigrated overseas to return to Hong Kong and Food and Wine grasp the opportunities there. French entrepreneurs launch new coffee brand in Hong Kong 18 Visitors to Vinexpo 2015 in Bordeaux explore pairing fine wines with Chinese haute cuisine 19 Comics and Animation Dublin Kongkee creates comic book for Blur’s new album 19 Hong Kong at 42nd Angoulême International Comics Festival 20 Comix Home Base forges strong links with Belgian Comic Strip Centre 20 Films Scary movies and classic martial arts films delight fans at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival 21 Hong Kong martial arts films brought to Europe for a new generation of film-goers to discover 22 Hong Kong film talent shines at 17th Udine Far East Film Festival 23 12th Asian Summer Film Festival in Vic, Spain 23 Art and Music Young cellist Calvin Wong plays at Rome Chamber Music Festival 24 Young Hong Kong musicians perform at Burgundy Regional Council in Dijon 24 Hong Kong Focus at LOOP Barcelona International Video Arts Festival 25 Hong Kong and Dutch inspire each other at “Art Hong Kong Amsterdam” 25 Hong Kong Philharmonic enthuses audience in Eindhoven 26 Hong Kong artist at ARCO Madrid, Spain’s international contemporary arts fair 26 News in Brief Economic growth forecast revised upwards 26 Hong Kong economy ranked world’s freest, second most competitive 27 Mrs Lam called on the Irish Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Chief Secretary encourages Netherlands-Hong Kong Society to continue playing an Mr Richard Bruton active role in promoting ties 27 First Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Hong Kong 27 Arriving in Dublin on 5 May, Mrs Lam called on the Site allocated for expansion of French International School 27 Coming to Europe in October Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mr Richard An entertaining introduction to Cantonese opera - Spring Glory Troupe on Bruton, and provided an update on the government’s tour in Europe 28 priorities in developing Hong Kong’s economy. --->

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 3 She then met with the Minister for Finance, Mr Michael Noonan, and told him about the growing opportunities in Renminbi-related businesses and Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre.

The Chief Secretary met with the Provost and President of Trinity College Dublin, Dr Patrick Prendergast, to explore possible areas for collaboration.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce, where she met Minister Mrs Lam briefed the Irish Minister for Finance, Mr Michael Noonan, of State, Department of Finance, Mr Simon Harris and on Hong Kong’s role as an offshore Renminbi centre. Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr Niall Burgess. Mrs Lam mentioned the huge success of the Working Holiday Scheme with Ireland, which was the first of 10 such schemes established.

Following a meeting with Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Ms Heather Humphreys, the two ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cultural Co-operation on behalf of their respective governments.

Mrs Lam met Minister of State, Department of Finance, Ireland, Mr Simon Harris, at an Irish business leaders’ dinner in Dublin

Rome

Mrs Lam (left) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Co- operation with the Irish Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Ms Heather Humphreys (right).

Mrs Lam visited the Centre for Digital Content Platform Research (ADAPT), an ICT facility based at Dublin City University. She then met with the Provost and President of Trinity College Dublin, Dr Patrick Prendergast, to learn about the university’s strengths and explore possible areas for collaboration, before delivering a lunchtime The Chief Secretary and Italy’s Deputy Minister for Economic Development, talk to around 100 of the College’s academic staff and Mr Carlo Calenda, agreed to explore further collaboration in a wide range students. of areas including culture and creative industries, wine business as well as innovation and technology. In the evening, Mrs Lam delivered a speech at a business dinner co-organised by HKETO, Brussels and the Hong In Rome on 6 May, Mrs Lam met with Italy’s Deputy Kong Trade Development Council with the support of the Minister for Economic Development, Mr Carlo Calenda.

4 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Mrs Lam encouraged more Italian companies to establish representatives of Veneto Promozione to explore ways a presence in Hong Kong, whether for sales of goods and to further enhance economic and trade relations as well services or to manage their operations in the Asia-Pacific as to learn more about the Veneto Region’s experience region. of taking part in the Milan Expo 2015. The meeting was followed by a visit to Aquae Venezia 2015 – the only pavilion of the Milan Expo outside Milan.

The Chief Secretary suggested to Under-secretary of Foreign Affairs, Mr Benedetto Della Vedova, that a Working Holiday Scheme would enhance bilateral co-operation and promote the development of tourism between Hong Kong and Italy. Mrs Lam exchanged views on arts development with the President of Venice Biennale, Mr Paolo Baratta. Mrs Lam then met with the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Benedetto Della Vedova. Mrs Lam said she Mrs Lam, who is also the Chairman of the West Kowloon looked forward to closer ties between Hong Kong and Cultural District Authority (WKCDA), officiated at the Italy, not only in trade and investment but also in cultural opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Pavilion at the exchanges. She added that Hong Kong was interested Venice Biennale on 7 May. The Pavilion features video in establishing a reciprocal Working Holiday Scheme installations by young artist Tsang Kin-wah, presented with Italy. Such arrangements would allow Hong Kong’s by WKCDA and the Hong Kong Arts Development Council young people to experience foreign cultures by living (HKADC). and working temporarily overseas, she said. Accompanied by Mr Lars Nittve, the Executive Director Mrs Lam dined with members of the Italian Parliament in of M+, Hong Kong’s museum for contemporary art, Mrs the evening, before departing for Venice, the last stage Lam met with the President of Venice Biennale, Mr Paolo of her European tour, the following day. Baratta, before attending a reception to meet with key figures in the arts and culture sector who were in Venice for the Biennale. In the evening, she attended a cocktail Venice reception and M+ dinner for around 150 members of the local and international arts community.

Mrs Lam with Director for International Policies and Cooperation of the Veneto Regional Government, Dr Diego Vecchiato.

In Venice, the Chief Secretary met with Director Mrs Lam, Dr Lars Nittve (second left) and Chief Curator of M+, Mr Doryun for International Policies and Cooperation of the Chong (far right) joined a tour organised by the Venice Biennale to visit the Veneto Regional Government, Dr Diego Vecchiato and pavilions of different countries and regions.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 5 Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development visits Burgundy

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Commerce and Economic members of the wine trade and business community. After Development, Mr Gregory So, visited Burgundy on 5 June the luncheon, Mr So visited TEB, a company specialising after attending the Ministerial Council Meeting of the in CCTV innovative solutions. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris.

Mr So addresses guests at a luncheon hosted by the Regional Council of Burgundy at the Château du Clos de Vougeot At the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Mr So (centre) is pictured with Acting Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, In the evening, Mr So was given an official reception at the Miss Drew Lai (first left), President of the Burgundy Regional Council, Mr Regional Council of Burgundy in Dijon, where he addressed François Patriat (second left), co-owner Mr Aubert de Villaine (second right) officials and economic and business representatives in and Vice President of the Regional Council, Ms Safia Otokoré (first right). the Council Chamber, before mingling with guests during a cocktail in the foyer. Accompanied by the President of the Regional Council of Burgundy, Mr François Patriat and the Regional Council’s Vice-President responsible for International Development, Ms Safia Otokoré, Mr So visited the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, where he was received by co-owner Mr Aubert de Villaine.

Mr So delivered a speech in the Council Chamber of the Burgundy Regional Council in Dijon.

Mr So told his interlocutors that with a population of just 7.3 million, by value, Hong Kong ranked eighth worldwide and second in Asia in Burgundy’s wine export markets Mr So (left) with Mr Vincent Barbier, Grand Master of the Brotherhood of the in 2013-14, ahead of Mainland China, which ranked 12th Knights of the Wine-Tasting Cup (centre) and Mr François Patriat (right) at worldwide. The booming wine business in Hong Kong can the Château du Clos de Vougeot. also be attributed to the removal of all wine duties in 2008. Since then, Hong Kong’s wine imports have thrived Mr de Villaine showed Mr So around the prestigious with a twofold increase to around EUR 819 million in 2014. vineyard and its cellars, and briefed him on the progress Hong Kong has also been the world’s number one wine of Burgundy’s application to get its unique Climats (i.e. auction centre for the last five years, and the outlook for terroirs), listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July wine business remains very positive. 2015. He said that Hong Kong is an ideal place for Burgundy- This visit was followed by a luncheon hosted by the based companies, no matter what their businesses are, Regional Council at Château du Clos de Vougeot, for managing their operations and investments. As the attended by officials and representatives of the Chamber “super-connector” connecting Mainland China with the of Commerce and Industry of Rhône-Alpes (CCIR), the rest of the world, Hong Kong is ready to facilitate ventures Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB), Burgundy Tourism and other and help grow businesses.

6 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Hong Kong congratulates Burgundy on UNESCO listing of its Climats

Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development He invited Mr de Villaine and the Association to take Gregory So congratulated Mr Aubert de Villaine, the advantage of Hong Kong’s upcoming Wine and Spirits President of the Association of Climats of the Vineyards Fair on 5-7 November to share the pride of Climats of of Burgundy, on the UNESCO World Heritage listing of the Burgundy and its exceptional wines with wine-lovers Climats of Burgundy on 4 July. and trade professionals in Asia. The fair featured over 1 000 exhibitors from 38 countries and regions in 2014 Mr So sent his heartfelt congratulations to the Association, and attracted nearly 20 000 international trade visitors and especially to Mr de Villaine, the main architect from 75 countries and regions. of this significant achievement in the promotion and preservation of the Climats of Burgundy. Secretary for Development attends Symposium of the Hong Kong-Barcelona Exchange Platform

The Hong Kong-Barcelona Urban Exchange Platform aims to provide a platform for the two cities to exchange views and share experiences on urban planning and design, waterfront development and urban regeneration.

Mr Chan introduced to the audience the Energizing Kowloon East initiative and its placemaking approach in transforming Kowloon East from an industrial area to an alternative central business district in Hong Kong. The approach emphasises high-quality urban design and active dialogues and engagement with the community.

The Secretary for Development, Mr Paul Chan, officiated at the opening During his stay in Barcelona, Mr Chan met with the ceremony of the Symposium of Hong Kong-Barcelona Urban Exchange Deputy Mayor of Barcelona, Mr Antoni Vives, and officials Platform in Barcelona on 10 March and delivered a keynote speech. of the Government of the City of Barcelona and Barcelona Regional to exchange views and share experiences on The Secretary for Development, Mr Paul Chan, led a Hong urban planning and harbourfront development. He also Kong delegation to Barcelona to attend the Symposium visited the Passeig de St Joan to learn about the integration of the Hong Kong-Barcelona Urban Exchange Platform on of infrastructure and urban design elements. 9-10 March. The delegation included Government officials, representatives from the Hong Kong Institute of Planners, Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design and Hong Kong Green Building Council.

Kowloon East, a former industrial area which the Government is During his stay in Barcelona, Mr Chan (third left) visited the Passeig de St Joan transforming into another central business district in Hong Kong. to learn about the integration of infrastructure and urban design elements.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 7 Secretary for the Environment visits France and Italy

Hong Kong’s Secretary for the Environment, Mr Wong Kam-sing, visited Paris, Alès and Milan on 6-11 July. France

During his stay in Paris, Mr Wong met a number of counterparts in the local government to exchange views on mobility and energy-related issues. He first called on the Head of Vivapolis and former Commissioner for Sustainable Development and Director of the Agency for Energy of the French Government, Mrs Michele Pappalardo.

Mr Wong then had meetings with the Assistant Special Representative of the French Government in charge of Mr Cédric Bolloré of Blue Solutions briefed Mr Wong and Acting Special the negotiations of the 2015 Paris Climate Conference Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, Miss (COP-21), Mr Philippe Lacoste, as well as with the Drew Lai, on the company’s applications in innovative clean energy Policy advisor to the French President for International transport and smart energy management solutions. Environmental and Climate Change Negotiations, Mrs Marie-Hélène Aubert. He visited the Exposition Innov’ On 7 July, Mr Wong attended the RIVE 2015 - International Climat 2015 in front of the City Hall of Paris. Meeting on Green Cars, a bi-annual event in Alès, and briefed the audience on the action taken in Hong Kong to address green mobility and sustainability. He toured the exhibition on green cars with His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Mr Wong (second left) was briefed on the exhibits at the Exposition Innov’ Climat 2015 in Paris. Mr Wong at the RIVE 2015-International Meeting on Green Cars in Alès.

Later the same day, he visited the Blue Solutions site of the Bolloré Group in Vaucresson, which operates, Italy and provides the electric vehicles for, the car-sharing service Autolib’ in Paris. He attended a lunch and dinner Starting his three-day visit to Italy on 8 June, Mr Wong hosted respectively by the Deputy Mayor of Paris, Mr visited a waste-to-energy plant in Brescia, Silla 2, Patrick Klugman, and the President of the Committee designed to get the optimum energy from residues of for Sustainable Development of the Senate, Mr waste collection which is then used to generate electricity Hervé Maurey. for district heating systems.

8 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 The plant, which is operated by the second-largest In addition, he took the opportunity to visit Expo Milano electricity company in Italy, is a valuable source of energy 2015, which is taking place under the theme “Feeding for Brescia and was conceived as part of an integrated the Planet, Energy for Life”, to see technologies and ecological system for the management of waste, energy innovations aimed at a more sustainable future and meet and local resources. In the evening, Mr Wong officiated with government officials and environmental industry at the opening reception of the Hong Kong Martial Arts leaders to exchange views on waste management Film Retrospective organised by the HKETO, Brussels. and energy-related policies as well as green business opportunities.

Mr Wong and Assistant Director of Environmental Protection, Mr Elvis Au (right) visited a waste-to-energy plant in Brescia. In Milan, Mr Wong met with the Regional Minister for Environment, Energy and Sustainable Development of the Lombardy Region, Mrs Claudia Maria Terzi. The following day, Mr Wong visited the food waste collection system in Milan to learn about municipal solid Before concluding his visit, Mr Wong met with the waste management and recycling in the city. He paid a Regional Minister for Environment, Energy and visit to Montello SpA, an Italian company which treats Sustainable Development of the Lombardy Region, organic waste using an anaerobic digestion process. The Mrs Claudia Maria Terzi, to exchange views on various plant produces biogas for the generation of electricity environmental protection issues and the promotion of and thermal energy. sustainable development in both places.

Constitutional Reform Government to focus on economic issues after LegCo rejects political reform package

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for achieving the aim of selecting all LegCo Members by Government will focus on economic development and universal suffrage has also been rendered uncertain. improving people’s livelihood for the rest of its term, after the Legislative Council (LegCo) rejected the Government’s Mr Leung said that for the past 20 months, the Hong Kong political reform package on 18 June, the Chief Executive, Mr Government and the whole of Hong Kong had put in a great CY Leung said. deal of time and effort trying to forge a consensus to take forward the constitutional development of Hong Kong. It The historic opportunity, which would have allowed Hong was now time to move on. Kong’s five million eligible voters to elect their Chief Executive by universal suffrage in 2017 was missed when “In the coming two years, the Hong Kong Government will the bill did not get the required two-thirds support of LegCo focus the efforts on the various economic development and Members. livelihood issues. The civil service will continue to serve the public with devotion and professionalism. I sincerely hope The veto will stall Hong Kong’s constitutional development, that, from now on, the community can close the differences and the fifth-term ChiefE xecutive will continue to be elected and work together for the common good of Hong Kong,” Mr by a 1 200-member Election Committee in 2017. The timing Leung said.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 9 Hong Kong - Italy double taxation agreement in force

The agreement between Hong Kong and Italy on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of income tax evasion has entered into force.

On 14 August, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Professor KC Chan said that the treaty will bolster the economic and trade connections between the two places and offer added incentives for companies in Italy to do business or invest in Hong Kong.

Professor Chan added that the pact would also address Italy’s concerns about Hong Kong’s commitment to enhancing tax transparency and combating cross-border tax evasion, and facilitate the removal of Hong Kong from Italy’s “blacklist” as early as possible. Hong Kong and Italy signed an avoidance of double taxation and prevention of income tax evasion agreement in January 2013. The agreement came into force on 10 August 2015 after being ratified by the Italian parliament and other necessary legal procedures. Hong Kong, strongly committed to enhancing tax transparency, calls for its immediate removal from European Commission’s tax blacklist

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government which came into force on 10 August 2015, after completion has called for the European Commission to remove Hong of ratification procedures on both sides. Moreover, Kong from the list of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions it negotiations on CDTA and TIEA are also under way with published on 17 June. five otherE U Member States.

“Hong Kong has all along been supportive of international The European Commission’s blacklisting was unilateral efforts to enhance tax transparency and combat tax and procedurally unfair. Hong Kong has been denied any evasion. We strongly disagree with any allegation that opportunity to comment on or clarify its position before Hong Kong is a ‘non-cooperative tax jurisdiction’, which the publication of the list. is totally unfounded,” a Government spokesman said shortly after the publication of the list. In the light of the rapidly evolving international landscape on tax co-operation, Hong Kong indicated to the OECD Hong Kong is one of the members of the Global Forum in September 2014 its support for implementing the on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax new standard on Automatic Exchange of Financial Purposes (the Global Forum), and underwent a two-phase Account Information in Tax Matters (AEOI). Hong Kong’s peer review by the Global Forum. Both Phase 1 and Phase commitment to implement AEOI was covered in the 2 reviews (completed in 2011 and 2013 respectively) have European Commission’s Annual Report on Hong Kong duly recognised Hong Kong’s commitment to meeting the released in April 2015, and was amongst the topics international standard on tax transparency. discussed at the annual EU-Hong Kong structured dialogue meeting held in Brussels in November 2014. To Hong Kong has, up to now, concluded 32 Comprehensive take forward the implementation of AEOI, the Government Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements (CDTAs), which plans to introduce an amendment bill into the Legislative provide relief for double taxation, and seven standalone Council in 2016. Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEAs) with other jurisdictions. They all contain an article on Exchange of Hong Kong would continue its dialogue with the European Information which meets international standard. Amongst Union and its Member States so that they are kept the 28 EU Member States, Hong Kong has already signed abreast of Hong Kong’s commitments and efforts on tax 13 CDTAs and two TIEAs. These include the CDTA with Italy cooperation.

10 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 HKETO, Brussels celebrates Chinese New Year in ten European cities

HKETO, Brussels hosted receptions in ten European cities to celebrate the start of the Year of the Ram with its friends from the local political and business communities, and Hong Kong people living in Europe.

A total of around 2 000 guests participated in the receptions in Ankara, Barcelona, Lisbon, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Paris and The Hague in January and February, and in Brussels and Dublin in March.

HKETO, Brussels took the opportunity to promote Hong Kong’s cultural talents by bringing from Hong Kong the Wuji Ensemble, a Chinese pluck-string instrument group, Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU to perform at the receptions in Barcelona, Madrid, Paris (SREU), Ms Linda Lai (centre), toasted the Year of the Ram at the reception and The Hague, a Belgium-based professional marimba in Brussels on 3 March. With her are Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr soloist from Hong Kong, Miss Fiona Foo, to perform in Kris Peeters (third right); European Commissioner for Competition, Ms Dublin and a Hong Kong sand-drawing master, Hoi Chui, Margrethe Vestager (third left); Ambassador of the PRC to the EU, Ms Yang to perform in Brussels. Yanyi (second right); Ambassador of the PRC to Belgium, Mr Qu Xing (first left); Chairman of the Belgium-Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet Steel (second left); and Director, UK, Benelux and Ireland, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Mr David Marsden (first right).

Sand painting artist, Hoi Chiu, gave a much-admired live performance at the At the reception in Dublin on 7 March, Ireland’s Minister of State, HKETO, Brussels’ Chinese New Year reception. Department of Finance, Mr Simon Harris, TD (far left); SREU, Ms Linda Lai (second left); marimbist Ms Fiona Foo Pui-yee (second right); and Regional Director, Europe, HKTDC, Mr Stephen Wong (far right).

The Wuji Ensemble, which comprises (from left) So Pui-yi, Tong Ming-hok, Lam Tsan-tong and Au Yuen-ying, performed at the HKETO, Brussels’ Chinese New Year reception in The Hague (seen here), Madrid, Barcelona and Paris. The Chinese New Year reception in Paris.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 11 Hong Kong welcomes talents, professionals and entrepreneurs

to return to Hong Kong. There is no quota under this Scheme and applicants are not required to have secured an offer of employment before entry. Opportunities for overseas graduates

As part of its ongoing efforts to attract overseas talents to Hong Kong, HKETO, Brussels also reached out to the College of Europe in Bruges and the Erasmus University in Rotterdam to promote opportunities for overseas graduates.

Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, on 9 March briefed a group of master and bachelor students from the Erasmus University in Rotterdam, who Immigration Department representatives, seen here in Barcelona, imparted were to visit Hong Kong at the end of March/early April practical advice and answered questions relating to immigration, employment to conduct a comparative research in corporate law. and permanent residencies. Miss Choi said that as Hong Kong is developing its legal services, in particular arbitration and dispute resolution As the Chief Executive announced in his 2015 Policy services, there are plenty of opportunities for Dutch law Address, Hong Kong is taking a more proactive approach graduates to establish their professional career in the to attracting talent and professionals from all over the city. world. In May, the Immigration Department enhanced Hong Kong’s existing admission schemes, to make it easier for them to come to Hong Kong. A new one-stop web portal to provide information for people considering a move to Hong Kong to work, study or invest was launched on 11 August.

The portal, “Hong Kong Welcomes U” (www.hkwelcomesu. gov.hk), centralises a wide range of information on employment, education, investment and immigration matters as well as social, recreational and cultural activities. It provides a handy reference to a range of initiatives and support for those wanting to learn more about relocating to and living in Hong Kong.

HKETO, Brussels has been promoting the enhancement measures under Hong Kong’s Talent Admission Schemes. With the support of the Immigration Department, it organised five dedicated seminars in Europe, namely in Amsterdam (29 June), Luxembourg (30 June), Antwerp (1 July), Barcelona and Dublin (3 July). Miss Choi (third right) and Assistant Representative, HKETO, Brussels, Miss Lily Lee (third left) with students of the College of Europe. Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents Miss Choi had earlier given a similar briefing to another group of master students from the College of Europe in In Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Antwerp, cities with Bruges on 27 February, who are following a European Hong Kong emigrant clusters, the new pilot “Admission Union-China Relations course at the College and Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong interested in pursuing PhD study in Hong Kong. Permanent Residents” was highlighted. This Scheme aims to attract the second generation of Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents who have emigrated overseas For more information, please see www.hkwelcomesu.gov.hk

12 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Hong Kong-EU School Pilot e-Learning Project ended with great success Theme was “Green Living and Sustainability in ceremony in Hong Kong on 24 July. A panel consisting of the Community” seven judges from six environmental NGOs was invited to make the final decision on the most successful overall Group Community Project in terms of ideas, implementation and cooperation, which was awarded the grand prize, the “Best Sustainable Community Project”. The winner of this grand prize saw a successful collaboration between two Hong Kong students from the HKCCCU Logos Academy, and three students from Institut Ernest Lluch in Barcelona.

Professor Rick Wong, Acting President and Vice-chancellor of the HKBU, said that the project had enhanced people-to- people exchange and “engaged students’ interest in both Hong Kong and European affairs”.

Ms Christine Loh, the Under Secretary of the Environment The winning group chose “Creating Beautiful Green Neighbourhoods” as their theme Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, said she was and did a brilliant job comparing relevant projects between Hong Kong and Barcelona. very envious of the students having the opportunity to work closely for a period of time with groups of students A project bringing secondary school students from Hong in Europe. “I think that it is not just the outcome, but the Kong and European cities together to create new ideas entire learning of the process and cultural exchange that is contributing towards a more sustainable community was important.” successfully concluded in July. With the support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade The e-Learning Project was jointly organized by the Office in Brussels and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade European Union Academic Programme Hong Kong (EUAP) Office in Berlin, the prize for the Barcelona winners will be and the European Studies Programme of the Hong Kong to fly to Hong Kong for a one week stay in late 2015, where Baptist University (HKBU). Nine Hong Kong schools and the students will visit their partner school, as well as green twelve schools from eight cities across four EU countries facilities and projects in the city. The students will become (Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain) took part. “sustainability ambassadors”, and continue the exchanges Between March and June 2015, the project connected over and dialogues of green living and sustainability in person. 200 students across communities by way of exchanging ideas, and collaborating through research on topics such as For more details of the e-Learning Project, please visit the official “Plastics & Recycling”, “Fashion & Toxic Issues”, “City” and website at “Food”, heightening their awareness on sustainability. http://euap.hkbu.edu.hk/main/hk-eu-school-e-learning-project/ The winning group’s video presentation can be seen at Nine awards were presented to winners at a prize-giving https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4aMncH3HTY Hong Kong students visit Belgium under European Union Academic Programme

A group of Hong Kong university students paid a five- day visit to Belgium under the European Union Academic Programme (EUAP) Summer EU Top-up Programme in June. On 22 June, the students visited the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), where Deputy Representative Miss Drew Lai (front, in red) and Assistant Representative Miss Lily Lee (second on far left) gave them a briefing on EU-Hong Kong relations and the role of HKETO, Brussels.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 13 Secretary for Education meets with European Research Council in Brussels

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Education, and Technology, Professor Tony Chan. Mr Eddie Ng, visited the European Research Council (ERC) in Brussels As the first pan-European funding on 30 July. He exchanged views body for frontier research, the ERC with the European Research Council was set up in 2007 to encourage President, Professor Jean-Pierre high quality research in Europe Bourguignon, and other senior through competitive funding. Since representatives on the strategies for its inception, the ERC has funded funding research for excellence. some 4 500 projects and counted eight Nobel laureates. Accompanying Mr Ng were the Chairman of the Research Grants Noting that the publicly funded Council of the University Grants institutions in Hong Kong have Committee (UGC), Professor Benjamin some 600 research collaborations Hong Kong’s Secretary for Education, Mr Wah; the President of the Hong Kong with 28 EU Member States, Mr Ng Eddie Ng with the President of the European Polytechnic University, Professor said he hoped that Hong Kong-EU Research Council President, Professor Jean-Pierre Timothy Tong; and the President of co-operation in education could be Bourguignon, at a meeting in Brussels. the Hong Kong University of Science further enhanced. Mutual recognition of funds between the Mainland and Hong Kong “will make Hong Kong major fund domicile”

Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission and centre into a major fund domicile, sharpening its the China Securities Regulatory Commission signed a competitive edge as a premier international asset Memorandum of Regulatory Cooperation on Mainland- management centre. Hong Kong Mutual Recognition of Funds on 22 May, which will allow eligible Mainland and Hong Kong funds to be The arrangement would be conducive to enriching the distributed in each other’s market through a streamlined types of fund products offered in the two places and vetting process. The scheme will be implemented on deepen the mutual access between the Hong Kong and 1 July 2015. Mainland financial markets. The distribution network for Hong Kong’s fund industry would be expanded, and more This is the first mutual recognition of funds arrangement funds would be attracted to domicile in Hong Kong. between the Mainland and a market outside the Mainland, making it a major breakthrough for the financial market. Given the size and potential of the combined Mainland- It is also a major breakthrough in the development of Hong Kong market, the mutually recognised market for mutual access between the capital markets of Hong Kong funds will become Asia’s largest, boosting the region’s and the Mainland. asset management industry, while enhancing the competitiveness of both sides. Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Mr John Tsang, said it could transform Hong Kong from a fund-distribution Luxembourg private investment bank starts asset management business in Hong Kong Banque Degroof Luxembourg SA (BDL) announced on The Hong Kong company will capitalise on the expertise 19 May that its subsidiary Degroof Asset Management developed in Luxembourg over the past ten years (HK) Limited had recently been approved by the Securities within its Alternative Investment Fund Managers and Futures Commission to provide asset management Directive/Undertakings for Collective Investment in services for investment funds. Transferable Securities management company, Degroof

14 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Gestion Institutionnelle-Luxembourg, in terms of asset already allowed BDL to develop closer ties with industry management, risk management, investment compliance practitioners in Asia. monitoring and distribution oversight. Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at The Managing Director of BDL, Mr Geert De Bruyne, said Invest Hong Kong, Mr Charles Ng, said that considering the asset management subsidiary would reinforce its the growing number of high-net-worth individuals in and commitment towards Hong Kong and the Asian region, around Hong Kong, there is substantial demand for quality as part of the strategic expansion of its representative asset management. office in the city, adding that the representative office had Hong Kong well-placed to seize “One Belt, One Road” opportunities

Map of “One Belt, One Road”.

Hong Kong is well-placed to seize the huge opportunities preparing for the initiatives and would also encourage the that will be offered by China’s new Silk Road Economic Belt tourism industry to explore markets along the routes. and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road (known collectively as “One Belt, One Road”, or “Belt-Road”), the Hong Kong Special The Chief Executive, Mr CY Leung, said that as the “Belt- Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has said. Road” developments increase the flow of international investment, as well as investment in and out of The two-part initiative was set out by China’s National China, Hong Kong is supremely placed to serve as the Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry “super-connector”. of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce on 28 March in a document entitled “Vision and Actions on He said the Silk Road Fund and Asian Infrastructure Jointly Building a Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Investment Bank (AIIB) are integral to the “Belt-Road” Maritime Silk Road”. strategy. With a final funding target of US$40 billion, the Silk Road Fund will provide investment and financing support It is aimed at establishing new routes linking Asia, Europe for infrastructure construction, industrial co-operation and Africa. A new “Silk Road economic belt” linking China and other connectivity projects among countries along to Europe that cuts through mountainous regions in Central the “One Belt, One Road”. With 57 founding members, the Asia, and the “Maritime Silk Road” that links China’s port AIIB will help address the region’s infrastructure financing facilities with the African coast and then pushes up through funding gap, estimated to be about US$780 billion a year the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean Sea. between 2010 and 2020.

Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs Carrie Lam said “Hong Kong’s financing and asset management Hong Kong could serve as a platform for financing, professionals can support the AIIB in such areas as project business logistics, high-end professional services, financing, investment, financial management and foreign diversified tourism and new industries. Speaking on exchange management. We can help it realise the huge 8 August, she pointed out that with the business edge of infrastructural investment needed to connect the Belt- Hong Kong’s four pillar industries and the “One Country, Road’s ambitious blueprint”. Two Systems” principle of Hong Kong, the city could seize the opportunities created by the new policy and help the He said that in the long run, Hong Kong will also benefit Mainland develop its “go global” and “bring in” strategies. from the increasing intra-regional trade along the She added that the HKSAR Government was actively “Belt-Road”.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 15 Former head of HKETO, Brussels is Hong Kong’s cultural district’s new chief

The construction site Duncan Pescod, the new Chief Executive Officer of the of the West Kowloon West Kowloon Cultural District Authority. Cultural District (August 2015).

A former head of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade The Authority currently has three facilities under Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), Mr Duncan Pescod, construction in the 40-hectare Cultural District was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the West (contemporary art museum M+, the Xiqu Centre for Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA), succeeding Chinese opera and the Arts Pavilion) with another three Michael Lynch on 3 August. Mr Lynch, who is retiring, (the Park, Freespace and Lyric Theatre Complex) due to has agreed to be a special advisor to the Authority for start soon or in the design stage. The imminent tasks one year, and will continue to promote the Cultural of the new CEO are to spearhead the timely completion District internationally. of infrastructural development, commercial planning, fundraising initiatives and other operational matters. He Duncan Pescod had worked alongside Michael Lynch as will also oversee the artistic development of the project, the WKCDA’s Chief Operating Officer since October 2014, supported by the two strong artistic teams on visual responsible for the infrastructural development and and performing arts, and will be personally involved in commercial and operational planning of the project. engaging the stakeholders in the local arts sector. Prior to that, he had served in various government departments for over 32 years, most recently as Although M+ is still under construction, the M+ team is Permanent Secretary for Transport and Housing already very active, embarking on a series of programmes (Housing) from May 2010 to April 2014. He was the and exhibitions in Hong Kong and abroad. This has Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and included participation in the 2015 Venice Biennale, where Trade Affairs to the European Communities from March the WKCDA and the Hong Kong Arts Development Council 2006 to August 2008. jointly presented video installations by Hong Kong artist Tsang Kin-wah. Hong Kong Pavilion at Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2015

The colourful Hong Kong Pavilion returned to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF) in Italy this year, with the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels). The Pavilion grouped more than 40 exhibitors, including 26 publishers, 18 printers and three electronic publishers. More than 1 000 outstanding books, including pop-up books specially produced for the event, demonstrated Hong Kong’s state-of-the-art printing technologies and competitive edge in bilingual publishing to worldwide buyers and readers from 30 March to 2 April. More than 30 specially selected pop-up books from Hong Kong provided a comprehensive overview of the city’s extraordinary skills and creativity in this The Hong Kong Pavilion will be back at the Bologna area, highlighting various illustration and pop-up techniques. Children’s Book Fair next year, on 4-7 April 2016.

16 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Hong Kong business opportunities highlighted in Italy, Greece, Turkey and the Netherlands

and Industry, Federation of Industries of Northern Greece, Enterprise Europe network and the Greek International Business Association.

Around 80 businesspeople attended a seminar in Milan on 26 May, organised in co-operation with HKTDC and the Italy-Hong Kong Association. It was followed by a networking cocktail on the occasion of the Association’s 30th anniversary.

Answering questions from the floor in Athens are Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi (second left); Business Development Director, Fresh Line, Ms Fotini Voulgari; Senior Advisor, International Relations at SEV- Hellenic Federation of Enterprises, Mr Yannis Patsavos; Senior Investment Promotion Executive, InvestHK, Mr Siegfried Verstappen; and Managing Director Asia, Intralot Group, Mr Marios Mitromaras.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), in cooperation with local partners, updated business communities in Europe on the latest In Milan, Miss Alice Choi (third left) joins the President of the Italy-Hong economic developments in Hong Kong, including the Kong Business Association, Cav. Mario Boselli (second right); the Regional launch of Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and the Director Europe HKTDC, Mr Stephen Wong, (third right); and the Director upcoming Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect, the Italy HKTDC, Mr Gianluca Mirante (right), in cutting the cake to celebrate the mutual recognition of cross-border funds, and the Association’s 30th anniversary. enhancement of talent admission schemes which has made it easier for entrepreneurs to come and live On 11 June, HKETO, Brussels joined hands with HKTDC and work in Hong Kong. They were told about the for a business seminar in Istanbul. Board Member of opportunities the city could offer entrepreneurs wishing Turkey’s Foreign Economic Relations Board, Mr Rasih to enter the Mainland Chinese and Asian markets, Öztürkmen, shared his experience in sourcing from and local companies shared their experience of doing Turkey and elaborated on the role Hong Kong could business in and/or with Hong Kong. play in China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative.

At a business seminar in Venice, co-organised with A business seminar was held in Amsterdam in co- Veneto Promozione on 17 February and attended by operation with the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce around 70 business people from the Veneto region, in the Netherlands to mark the 18th Anniversary of the special focus was given to the sectors of food and establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative beverage, jewellery, e-commerce, wine and technology. Region. The Chamber was also celebrating its fifth The seminar was supported by the Hong Kong Trade anniversary (page 18) Development Council (HKTDC) and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK). HKETO, Brussels also participated in the Eurasia business seminar in Rome on 22-23 June. The seminar focused Business seminars held in Thessaloniki and Athens on on the development of the Asian markets and business 17 and 18 March respectively attracted 100 participants. opportunities for Italian companies and was followed The events were organised in collaboration with by a networking reception and dinner at which the InvestHK and the Hellenic Federation of Enterprises and Italian Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Benedetto supported by the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce Della Vedova, delivered a keynote speech.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 17 Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 18th Anniversary Business Seminar and Dinner in Rotterdam

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) celebrated the 18th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) with a business seminar and VIP dinner in Rotterdam on 30 June.

The afternoon business seminar, which was followed by a networking cocktail reception and a dinner, was co- organised by the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands, InvestHK, the City of Rotterdam, the Port of Rotterdam, Rotterdam Partners and Finnair.

Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, told dinner guests that the past 18 years had been a huge success story for Hong Kong, which had firmly Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, addressed 150 established itself as the “super-connector” between guests from the political, diplomatic, institutional and business circles at the China and the rest of the world. HKSAR 18th Anniversary Dinner. French entrepreneurs launch new coffee brand in Hong Kong

Founded by three French entrepreneurs, La Station Hong Kong remains an attractive market for foreign opened its flagship shop in Hong Kong on 17 June, the investors. first of a series of concept stores aimed at bringing a genuine European coffee experience to Asian Paul Lafayet arrived in Hong Kong in 2010 with the customers. ambition of democratising fine French pastries. He now has 11 stores in Hong Kong. The new shop offers high-quality coffee and fresh food, some of which is provided by French patissier Paul Lafayet. Co-founder of La Station Mr Merwann Younes said that the shop interior, decorated like a European train station, is a vivid statement of the brand, “like a train station where customers can commence a journey of new coffee experiences”.

Mr Younes said that through his links with Paul Lafayet, a family-run business where he worked as Assistant Director since January 2013, he had gained experience of the Hong Kong food and beverage industry. He had found that the local coffee market still has a gap to fill in terms of quality coffee and branding, so had set up La Station to add variety for customers.

“I believe that Hong Kong offers us the right client base and a good leverage for us to expand to other parts of Asia,” he said.

Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, Dr Jimmy Chiang, said that despite strong Founded by three French entrepreneurs, (from left) Mr Merwann Younes, Mr competition in the food and beverage industry, Chris Younes and Mr Mattieu Maury, La Station opened its flagship shop at the stories of Paul Lafayet and La Station show that Queen’s Road East in Wan Chai.

18 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Visitors to Vinexpo 2015 in Bordeaux explore pairing fine wines with Chinese haute cuisine

A dedicated Hong Kong Restaurant, co-sponsored by at Vinexpo Asia-Pacific, which will be held at the HKCEC the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels in Hong Kong on 24-26 May 2016. (HKETO, Brussels) and the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), was set up at the 2015 The Acting Special Representative for Hong Kong edition of Vinexpo, the world’s biggest international Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union wine and spirits exhibition, taking place in Bordeaux (SREU), Miss Drew Lai, said that while wine is becoming on 14-18 June. hugely popular in Hong Kong, there is still ample room to explore the versatility of pairing fine wines with Chinese Supervised by HKCEC’s Executive Chef-Chinese Kitchen, haute cuisine. She pointed out that finding success in Mr Tam Kwok-sing, the Hong Kong Restaurant gave this area would help boost wine trading, tourism interest Bordeaux diners a taste of what they can look forward to and cultural exchange.

Acting SREU Miss Drew Lai (far right), with Chef Tam Kwok-sing (second right), Assistant Representative at the HKETO, Brussels, Mr KK Yeung (far left) and Ms Amy Lee, Food and Beverage Deputy Manager – Event Management at HKCEC (second left). The restaurant proved so popular there was a queue for tables. Kongkee creates comic book for Blur’s new album

British band Blur asked Kongkee of Hong Kong animation studio Penguin Lab to create a special comic book to accompany the band’s latest album, “The Magic Whip”. Blur recorded part of the album in Hong Kong. Kongkee, who expertly captured the city’s unique mix of tradition and modernity, said that he wanted Blur to see different sides of the city and connect with the locals.

Kongkee with his character “Ding Ding Penguin”, created for a comedy column in a free Hong Kong newspaper making fun of crazy city life. The Penguin gave its name to Penguin Lab, the company Kongkee “Travel to Hong Kong with Blur”, founded with Lawman. Kongkee’s comic for Blur’s new album, “The Magic Whip”. ©2015 PENGUIN LAB, LTD ©2015 PENGUIN LAB, LTD

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 19 Hong Kong Comix Boom !! at 42nd Angoulême International Comics Festival

For the third time, a delegation of the Hong Kong comics Animation Federation, and Ms Connie Lam, Executive industry took part in the 42nd Angoulême International Director of the Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) at the Comics Festival with the support of CreateHK and the event, which took place from 29 January to 1 February. HKETO, Brussels. Bigsoil, Keung Chi-kit, Mandycat, Montagut Chuen and Leumas To gave live drawing demonstrations, took part Europe’s leading event of its kind, the Angoulême in sharing sessions and gave talks to foster exchanges Festival attracts over 200 000 practitioners every year, with international comics practitioners. An exhibition including comic artists, publishers, distributors, comic “Hong Kong Comix BOOM!!”, co-organised by the HKAC fans and tourists. and the Comix Home Base, brought local flavours to the world-renowned festival. Five Hong Kong comics artists joined Alan Wan, Executive Committee Member of the Hong Kong Comics and

Drinking a toast with the Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Drew Lai (centre, in blue) are, from left to right: Executive Director of the HKAC, Ms Connie Lam; Mandycat; Keung Chi-kit; Leumas To; Montagut Chuen; the Programme and Operation Manager of the HKAC, Mr Gordon Lo; comics publisher Alan Wan; Bigsoil; and the Assistant Programme and Operations Manager of the HKAC, Ms Rachel Lo. Montagut Chuen gives fans an autograph Comix Home Base forges strong links with Belgian Comic Strip Centre

<--- To celebrate the second anniversary of Comix Home Base, Hong Kong’s comics artists jazzed up six of the city’s iconic trams. The Ding! Ding! Comix Trams will brighten up the ride as they chug along until October 2015.

Comix Home Base (CHB), Hong Kong’s platform for The Director of the Belgian Comic Strip Centre, Mr Willem exchange and interaction for the comics industry, has De Graeve, was in Hong Kong on 1 August to take part in formed strong links with the Belgian Comic Strip Centre a series of events, master classes, talks and exhibitions in Brussels. on the theme of comics and animation organised by

20 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 CHB all through the summer to celebrate its second The Belgian Comic Strip Centre is preparing a big anniversary. exhibition for 2017 about Chinese comics, of which Hong Kong comics will form an important part. Mr De Graeve gave a talk about Belgium’s flourishing comics industry, entitled “Comics - The Big Success of a Small Country”, the latest in a series of exchanges between the Belgian Comic Strip Centre and CHB, which hosted an exhibition of Belgian comics last autumn. Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Carrie Lam, paid a visit to the Belgian Comic Strip Centre during her visit to Brussels on 3 May.

During her visit to Brussels on 3 May, Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Carrie Lam (right), was shown around the Belgian Comic Strip Centre’s reading library by Deputy Director, Ms Tine Anthoni.

<--- Mr Willem De Graeve, Director, in charge of communication, Belgian Comic Strip Centre, speaking at CHB Scary movies and classic martial arts films delight fans at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival

Fourteen Hong Kong films were shown at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFFF), taking place at the Belgian capital’s Centre for Fine Arts on 7-19 April.

The festival screened the HKETO, Brussels’s martial arts retrospective (see page 22), adding four more Kung Fu films: Iron Monkey, Kung Fu Hustle, Seven Swords and The Grandmaster.

The festival’s official programme also included four recent Hong Kong productions: Fruit Chan’s The Midnight After; Tsui Hark’s The Taking of Tiger Mountain 3D; and Vice-President and Programme Director of the Brussels International Fantastic Dante Lam’s That Demon Within were all in competition, Film Festival (BIFFF), Mr Freddy Bozzo with Deputy Representative of the while Joe Chien’s Zombie Fight Club thrilled fans of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, at a reception hosted by HKETO, Brussels. genre at a midnight screening.

It was the HKETO, Brussels’ third collaboration with BIFFF, an annual festival of fantasy, fantastic, thriller and science- fiction films which attracts 60 000 visitors a year.

The HKETO, Brussels also hosted a reception on the occasion of the Hong Kong Film Night at BIFFF on 16 April, which included a screening of Stephen Chow’s iconic comedy Kung Fu Hustle and Fruit Chan’s thriller The Midnight After.

Hong Kong film director Mr Jacob Cheung was invited to BIFFF on 10 April to present his film, The White-Haired Witch of Lunar Kingdom at a press conference.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 21 Hong Kong martial arts films brought to Europe for a new generation of film-goers to discover

Deputy Representative of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, Hong Kong’s Secretary for the Environment, Mr K S Wong (second right), who Miss Drew Lai (left), with the Deputy Director of the Sofia International Film was visiting Milan, delivered a speech at the opening reception at Fondazione Festival, Miss Mira Staleva. Cineteca Italiana on 11 July.

The Hong Kong Film Panorama, the festival of recent then screened at the prestigious EYE Film Institute in Hong Kong films brought to European cities every year Amsterdam on 6-15 April. at the initiative of the HKETO, Brussels, was given a special martial arts theme this season, in the hope that Two more festivals, the Brussels International Fantastic a new generation of film-goers might discover these Film Festival (BIFFF) and the 17th Far East Film Festival iconic films, which are an important part of Hong Kong in Udine, screened the films on 7-19 April and 23 April-2 culture. May respectively (see pages 21 and 23).

In the Chinese literal meaning, Kung means efforts and The Hong Kong martial arts film retrospective was then achievements, while Fu refers to a decent man. Kung Fu held in Florence on 21-23 May as part of the Dragon Film is more than just fighting, it also involves a lot of wisdom Festival, in co-operation with EurAsia and the Toscana and self-cultivation. This resonates with the Hong Kong Film Commission. spirit - strive for perfection, never give up, and at the same time, be flexible. The programme then went to Turkey, where it was screened in Istanbul on 10-12 June and in Izmir on In partnership with the Hong Kong International Film 11-14 June, in co-operation with Hezafen Film Galeri. Festival Society, HKETO, Brussels curated a programme of some of the classics of the genre, namely Bruce The Fondazione Cineteca Italiana screened the films in Lee’s The Way of the Dragon, Ching Siu-tung’s Duel to Milan from 7-12 July as part of “Expo in Città”, a project the Death, Tsui Hark’s Once Upon a Time in China II, created by the Municipality of Milan and Milan Chamber Corey Yuen’s Righting Wrongs, Jackie Chan’s The Young of Commerce. The opening was attended by Hong Kong’s Master and Sammo Hung’s Spooky Encounters. Some of Secretary for the Environment, Mr K S Wong. HKETO, Brussels’ partners added other martial arts films to these as well. The films next went to Tricase, Salento, where they were screened at Palazzo Gallone on 4 September. This was followed The HKETO, Brussels also seized the opportunity to tell by screenings at the Olympion Theatre in Thessaloniki, on audiences about the remarkable exhibition on the life 10-13 September. The next stop will be Dublin, where the and work of Bruce Lee that is being held at the Hong Dublin International Film Festival’s DIFF PIX programme will Kong Heritage Museum until 2018. present them as a weekend of martial arts films under the name “Hong Kong Kicks” on 25-28 September. The martial arts films programme got off to a good start at the Sofia International Film Festival on 21-29 March, For further information, please see our website www.hongkong-eu.org attracting around 600 festival visitors. The films were Bruce Lee exhibition www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk

22 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Hong Kong film talent shines at 17th Udine Far East Film Festival

Hong Kong film talent, old and new, was much in EUR 4,000 budget and a mentor from the film industry to evidence at the 17th Udine Far East Film Festival on 23 produce a narrative short up to 30 minutes in length. April-2 May. The Jumping Frames International Dance Video Festival Some of Hong Kong’s greatest martial arts classics were was also at Udine, where it presented three Hong Kong screened as part of a retrospective curated by HKETO, works: Let’s Say, directed by Jim Fok and choreographed Brussels (see page 22). by Li De; Elegy, directed by Rita Nga-shu Hui and choreographed by Chan Kwun-yi, Vinci Mok and Cally Among recent productions, the festival featured the Yu; and the world premiere of Body Watch, directed by Italian premiere of Teddy Chen’s film, Kung Fu Jungle Frankie Ho and Ziv Chun and choreographed by Frankie Ho. starring Donnie Yen. The director presented his film to the audience before the screening.

Jackie Chan was the festival’s special guest, and presented the world premiere of the international cut of Daniel Lee’s film Dragon Blade as the festival’s opening movie. Chan plays a leading role in the film, alongside Adrien Brody and John Cusak.

A host of other Hong Kong film industry personalities presented their latest work at the festival, which included two other international premieres: Philip Yung’s Port of Call, and Sunny Luk and Longman Leung’s spy thriller, Helios.

Three Fresh Wave Short Film directors attended the festival: Anastasia Tsang, director of Marryland; Cai Jia- hao, director of Neighbors; and Louis Wong, director of iPhone Thieves. Organised since 2005 by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council (HKADC) and today championed by master filmmaker Johnnie To, who is the Chairman Photo shows from left to right: Miss Alice Choi; Mr Teddy Chen; the President of the HKADC’s Film and Media Arts Group, the annual of the Far East Film Festival, Ms Sabrina Baracetti; and the Executive Director Fresh Wave festival gives each eligible young filmmaker a of the Hong Kong International Film Festival, Mr Roger Garcia. 12th Asian Summer Film Festival in Vic, Spain

With the support of the Hong in the festival’s official selection, Kong Economic and Trade Office in which included four Hong Kong films Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), the Asian this year: Aman Chang and Wong Summer Film in Vic, near Barcelona, Jing’s From Vegas to Macau II, Lee presented a series of Hong Kong Po-cheung’s Gangster Payday, Jil films on 14-19 July. Wong’s Guilty and Teddy Chen’s Kung Fu Jungle. The popular festival, which attracts an audience of around 8 000 people, Johnnie To’s film Exiled, and Ferris included indoor and outdoor Lin’s documentary about To, screenings, a Cantonese dinner and Boundless, were also screened. a martial arts exhibition. Children were able to watch Hong Kong’s first movie made with 3D It is also a meeting place for animation techniques, Antony Spanish producers and distributors Szeto’s DragonBlade: The Legend interested in acquiring films shown of Lang.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 23 Young cellist Calvin Wong plays at Rome Chamber Music Festival

From left to right: Miss Lily Lee, Assistant Representative, HKETO, Brussels; Ms Jacopa Stinchelli, Director General Fondazione Rome Chamber Music Festival; Calvin played on an Italian cello made in the mid-1800s, lent to him by Swiss Mr Robert McDuffie, Festival Founder and Artistic Director; Miss Alice Choi, Master of Luthiery, Mr Claude Lebet. Deputy Representative, HKETO, Brussels; and cellist Mr Calvin Wong Tai-shing.

A young Hong Kong cellist, Calvin Wong Tai-shing, took “I learnt a lot from the coaches, Mr Francesco Bossone, part in the 12th Rome Chamber Music Festival at Palazzo Mr Guido Corti and Mr Kurt Muroki. I am also very Barberini on 7-11 June, with the support of the Hong Kong impressed with the talent and professionalism of the Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels). young artists. It was a rewarding experience to perform The Festival’s Young Artist Programme included a week- in Ms Julie Albers’ masterclass with the other two Italian long masterclass with some world-renowned artists, and cellists. I hope I can have the chance to work with them a concert performance on 9 June. again in the near future”.

Calvin, who is currently studying with Mr Laurent Perrin The Festival, one of Rome’s most anticipated cultural of the Hong Kong Sinfonietta, said that working with events, was supported by the Italian Ministry of some of the finest musicians from Europe and the US Culture with patronage of the City of Rome and the had been a very valuable and wonderful experience. Lazio Region. Young Hong Kong musicians perform at Burgundy Regional Council in Dijon

Two young Hong Kong musicians studying in France, oboist Cheng Chi-Yuen and harpsichordist Kelvin Tsui, performed at a cocktail reception hosted by the Burgundy Regional Council on the occasion of the visit of Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, on 5 June (see page 6).

Mr So, a keen musician himself, was delighted with the performance.

After their respective studies at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and the Hochschule für Musik “Franz Liszt” in Weimar, Cheng Chi-Yuen and Kelvin Tsui were continuing their studies at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique of Lyon.

24 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Hong Kong focus at LOOP Barcelona International Video Arts Festival

Hong Kong was the focus of a video art programme She also curated “Hong Kong Crossings”, a programme put together by two Hong Kong curators for the LOOP of video works screened at the LOOP Fair, the first fair Barcelona International Video Arts Festival, held on 28 exclusively dedicated to the discovery, promotion and May-6 June 2015. acquisition of contemporary video art works.

“Hong Kong in LOOP 2015” presented the work of more Some of the works were screened at a gala dinner hosted than 20 Hong Kong video artists, with the support of by HKETO, Brussels for international and Spanish artists, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels curators and art dealers, on 2 June 2015. (HKETO, Brussels).

Dr Isaac Leung curated “Simultaneity–Reframing, Hong Kong”, which presented selected video works of art produced from 1989 to 2014. Dr Leung is the Director of Videotage, a non-profit organisation in Hong Kong focusing on the presentation, promotion, production and preservation of video and media art. Since 1986, Videotage has developed from an umbrella for media artists to a network of media art and culture for cross- disciplinary cultural productions, and a platform to facilitate international exchanges.

Dr Linda Lai curated “Micro Narratives: Invented Space- Time”, which presented the best projects created in the School of Creative Media, City University of Hong Kong, At the gala dinner hosted by HKETO, Brussels, from left to right, Acting Special from 2000 to 2015. Dr Lai is Associate Professor and Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, Miss Drew Major Leader for the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Media Lai; Associate Professor, City University of Hong Kong, Dr Linda Lai; Director of at the School. Videotage, Dr Isaac Leung; Director for Culture and Exhibitions, Casa Asia, Ms Menene Gras. Hong Kong and Dutch artists inspire each other at “Art Hong Kong Amsterdam”

Hong Kong and Dutch artists producing traditional, contemporary and experimental works demonstrated how they inspire each other at the “Art Hong Kong Amsterdam” art exchange held at the NDSM Shipyard on 25-29 June. The event, which was supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), was part of the “Art-Plan 2013- 2016” of Foundation NDSM-Shipyard.

Works from 43 Hong Kong artists featured in the exhibition “Chinese Lines”. Another highlight was Loi Che Chan’s “Endless Rhythm”, a Chinese calligraphy on strips of paper totalling 2 000 metres long.

At one of the art workshops, Loi Che Chan and Mark van Praagh demonstrated how repetitive music from composers such as Simeon ten Holt and Philip Glass Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi (front row, seventh guides their handwriting and influences their artistic left), with some of the artists and organisers of the “Art Hong Kong Amsterdam” art coproduction. exchange.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 25 Hong Kong Philharmonic enthuses audience in Eindhoven

The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by its Dutch Music Director, Jaap van Zweden and featuring violinist Ning Feng, performed to an enthusiastic audience of 1 200 in Eindhoven on 28 February. The event, part of the orchestra’s European tour, was supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels), which hosted a reception for 300 guests from the regional and local Dutch business Renowned violinist and conductor Jaap van Zweden led the Hong Kong Philharmonic in a community. spirited performance. Hong Kong artist at Spain’s international contemporary arts fair, ARCO Madrid

Hong Kong artist and curator Isaac Leung, Director of Videotage, took part in ARCO Madrid, one of the largest international contemporary art fairs in Europe, with the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels).

Dr Leung took part in two sessions of the XII Asian Maps Programme, a seminar organised at the fair every year by Spanish cultural organisation Casa Asia.

Mr Leung also gave his insights into the Hong Kong art scene at a public session on 1 March, which had as its topic “The Post-Global Society and the New Art System”. Participants discussed the idea of a post global society and the post-museum, at a time of great changes in the art system, art institutions and art market.

HKETO, Brussels hosted a reception on 28 February for over 100 representatives of international art institutions At the reception, from left to right: Deputy Representative, HKETO, attending the fair. Deputy Representative Miss Drew Lai Brussels, Miss Drew Lai; Director of Videotage, Dr Isaac Leung; Culture briefed them on the Hong Kong SAR Government’s efforts and Exhibitions Director, Casa Asia, Ms Menene Gras; a representative of in promoting creativity, while Mr Leung updated them on ARCO, Miss María Millán. Hong Kong’s art scene.

NEWS IN BRIEF Economic growth forecast revised upwards

Hong Kong’s economy grew by 2.8% in real terms year- Taking into account the 2.6% growth in the first half of on-year in the second quarter, slightly faster than the 2015, and the expected further moderate growth in the 2.4% growth in the first quarter. The strength in domestic second half, the economy should attain growth in the demand helped cushion the continued slackening in range of 2-3%, revised upwards from 1 3%. external trade, and would remain the key growth propeller of economic growth in the second half of 2015.

26 Hong Kong News Summer 2015 Hong Kong economy ranked world’s freest, second most competitive

For the 21st consecutive year, the Washington-based Heritage Hong Kong’s rank rose to the second among the 61 Foundation has ranked Hong Kong as the world’s freest economies assessed, only after the United States. economy, in its 2015 Index of Economic Freedom. The report ranks four competitiveness factors: economic Hong Kong received another accolade at the end of May, from performance, government efficiency, business efficiency the International Institute for Management Development and infrastructure. Hong Kong’s rankings in government (IMD) which ranked the city as the world’s second most efficiency and business efficiency both improved to the competitive economy in its IMD World Competitiveness first globally, up from the second and the third last year Yearbook 2015, up from the fourth place last year. respectively. Chief Secretary encourages Netherlands Hong Kong Society to continue playing an active role in promoting ties

The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Carrie Lam, seized the opportunity of her transit through Amsterdam Schiphol on 3 May at the start of her European tour to meet with the newly-elected board members of the Netherlands Hong Kong Society (NHKS).

She encouraged the Society to continue to play an active role in promoting the bilateral economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and the Netherlands.

Established in 1978, it is the oldest of a similar network of Hong Kong societies and associations around the world, Mrs Carrie Lam (third left) and Acting SREU, Miss Drew Lai (first left) with which belong to the Federation of Hong Kong Business the NHKS’ Chairman, Mr Hans Poulis (third right), Vice Chairman, Mr Hemmy Associations Worldwide. The NHKS is organising a week- Wong (second right), Secretary, Mr George Ammerlaan (far right) and board long mission to Hong Kong to attend the Federation’s member, Ms Winnie Tong (second left). Forum on 1-2 December. Further information at www.nhks.nl First Saint Patrick’s Day Site allocated for Parade in Hong Kong expansion of French International School

The French international school in Hong Kong, the Lycée Français, has been allocated a greenfield site in Tseung Kwan O town centre in the New Territories for its further development. The new school premises are expected to commence operation in 2018/19. The allocation exercise was part of the government’s continous effort to Lion and Dragon dancers and Kung Fu fighters joined Irish increase the provision of internationals school folk dancers as Saint Patrick’s Day Parade took to the places to meet the demand from overseas families streets of downtown Hong Kong for the first time on 15 living in Hong Kong. International schools in Hong March. The Parade, with a typical Hong Kong East-West Kong provided about 41 000 school places in the twist, was held in honour of Ireland’s patron saint and to 2014/15 school year. mark its national day.

Hong Kong News Summer 2015 27 An entertaining introduction to Cantonese opera Don’t miss the Spring Glory Troupe’s European Tour !

Cantonese opera was inscribed onto up, stylized movements, intricate the UNESCO Representative List of choreography of fighting rehearsals, the Intangible Cultural Heritage of and beautiful instrumental and vocal Humanity in 2009, yet this demanding techniques of Hong Kong’s most art form, which requires from its indigenous form of performing arts. virtuoso performers a mastery of music, singing, martial arts, acrobatics Led by maestro Yuen Siu Fai, the and acting, remains unfamiliar to Spring Glory Troupe will also stage European audiences. an excerpt scene from the famous traditional opera “Two Heroic The performance is a modern drama Families”. Most of the dialogue of The Spring Glory opera troupe will taking place at the backstage of the drama will be in English, while be on tour in Europe in October a Cantonese opera. Through this the excerpt will be sung in Chinese. with “Backstage”, a show that will delightful two-hour show, the Subtitles in English and Chinese provide an entertaining introduction audience will be introduced to the will be available throughout the to Cantonese opera. dazzling costumes, unique make- performance. Tour dates

Rotterdam Theater Zuidplein Monday 5 October

Den Haag De Nieuwe Regentes Wednesday 7 October

Amsterdam Openbaar Bibliotheek Thursday 8 October

Antwerp Elckerlyc Theater Monday 12 October

Viterbo Palazzo dei Papi Thursday 15 October

Please see our website for details nearer the time www.hongkong-eu.org

News Summer 2015

This newsletter is issued by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, the official representation of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to the European Union and 14 of its Member States, and to Turkey. Please contact us if you wish to subscribe/unsubscribe. For the latest information, please see our website at www.news.gov.hk

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]

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