News Summer 2017
Issued by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels
Carrie Lam is Hong Kong’s new Chief Executive.
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region celebrates its 20th anniversary. President attends Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary celebrations, Government inaugural ceremony
Hong Kong’s new Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, says goodbye to President Xi Jinping at the end of his three-day visit to Hong Kong.
President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan visited System at Hong Kong International Airport. The President Hong Kong on 29 June-1 July 2017 to attend the activities was briefed on how the Hong Kong SAR Government, in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s through investment in infrastructure, is enhancing its return to the motherland and the Inaugural Ceremony connections within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao of the Fifth Term* Government of the Hong Kong Special Bay Area as well as with the rest of Mainland, and on the Administrative Region (Hong Kong SAR), during which he strategy of strengthening Hong Kong as an international swore in Hong Kong’s new Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, and regional logistics hub. and her team of Principal Officials. The President also witnessed the signing of the During his stay in Hong Kong the President visited Framework Agreement on Deepening Guangdong-Hong major infrastructure projects like the West Kowloon Kong-Macao Cooperation in the Development of the Bay Cultural Development and the Hong Kong Link Road Area (see page 4). of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. He also heard about the latest progress of work on the Three-runway * The fifth government since 1 July 1997. Carrie Lam is Hong Kong’s new Chief Executive
Mrs Carrie Lam was elected Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on 26 March 2017, succeeding Mr CY Leung on 1 July.
Mrs Lam said her first task was to unify Hong Kong society and improve the relationship between the executive and legislature. She also pledged to safeguard judicial independence and the rule of law, core values of Hong Kong.
“We hereby invite different sectors of the community to Mrs Carrie Lam greets onlookers at the flag-raising ceremony in Golden connect with us in promoting the economy, improving Bauhinia Square. people’s livelihood and advancing democracy,” Mrs Lam said.
2 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 She pledged that in the coming five years, she would Summer 2017 lead the Hong Kong SAR Government in continuing to Contents implement the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”, “Hong Kong People administering Hong Kong” and “a high cover degree of autonomy” strictly in accordance with the Basic President Xi Jinping attends Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary celebrations 2 Law. Carrie Lam is Hong Kong’s new Chief Executive 2 Important milestone for Greater Bay Area development in the PRD 4 Announcing her new government team, she noted that Finance there were many familiar faces among the 16 politically Bond Connect: Mainland Bond link with Hong Kong 5 accountable Principal Officials (ministers). Hong Kong becomes member of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) 5 Hong Kong and France conclude Mutual Recognition of Funds pact 6 Six were Secretaries of Bureaux and Directors of Innovation and Technology Departments and four were Under Secretaries in the Hong Kong and Shenzhen will jointly develop an innovation and previous Government. Four were civil servants-turned- technology park 6 politically accountable officials and one was the former France-HKUST Innovation Hub opens at Hong Kong University of Science and Director of the Chief Executive’s Office Mr ( Edward Technology 7 Yau, now Secretary for Commerce and Economic Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) wins Gold at Geneva inventions Development). Academic Dr Law Chi-kwong will be joining exhibition 7 the Government for the first time. The top three Principal PolyU wins three TechConnect Global Innovation Awards 8 Officials, Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Matthew Poly U launches 3D Research Facility 8 Cheung, Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan and Secretary New system for Augmented Reality enthusiasts 8 for Justice, Mr Rimsky Yuen, remained in post. Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary celebrations in Europe Year of Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary celebrations opens with Chinese Mrs Lam and members of the Fifth Term Government of the New Year events 9 Hong Kong SAR were sworn in by President Xi Jinping on 1 HKETO, Brussels marks Hong Kong SAR’s 20th anniversary in Luxembourg, July. Speaking at the Inauguration Ceremony, Mrs Lam said Brussels and Rotterdam 11 the city would continue to capitalise on its institutional Hong Kong youths invited to take 100km walking challenge in Belgium 14 strengths established by generations of hardworking Hong Golf tournament in the Netherlands to celebrate Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary 14 Kong people and the country’s support. Hong Kong Michelin-starred chefs delight diners at Vinexpo in Bordeaux 15 Aviation “From signing the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Hong Kong International Aviation Academy launched – Joint programmes Economic Partnership Arrangement 14 years ago, to giving with ENAC 16 Hong Kong – along with Macao – a dedicated chapter in Hong Kong and Spain sign Air Services Agreement 16 the outlines of the 12th and 13th National Five-Year Plans; Aircraft leasing: Hong Kong offers tax concessions 17 from supporting Hong Kong’s roles in the Belt and Road Hong Kong International Airport’s excellence in efficiency and cargo services Initiative and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area wins awards 17 development plan, to joining the Asian Infrastructure Art and Creative Industries Investment Bank last month, our country has enabled Samson Young’s exhibition at Venice Biennale 18 immense opportunities for us. As we capitalise on our Hong Kong Design Exhibition “Confluence: 20+” at La Triennale di Milano 19 strengths and harness the opportunities presented by Udine Far East Film Festival: “Creative Visions: Hong Kong Cinema 1997- our country’s development, Hong Kong’s future is indeed 2017” 20 bright and promising.” Stephen Chow’s film Mermaid wins Silver Raven at BIFFF 21 Mad World opens Amsterdam’s CinemAsia Film Festival, wins award 21 Mrs Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor Little Big Master opens Dragon Film Festival in Florence 22 Legends of Lion Dance exhibition in Antwerp showcases Hong Kong’s Mrs Lam was born on 13 May 1957 and joined the Hong cultural heritage 23 Kong Civil Service as an Administrative Officer in 1980. News in brief She served in numerous policy bureaux and departments, Hong Kong signs co-operation agreement with Comité Champagne 24 including as Director-General of the Hong Kong Economic Hong Kong “World’s Freest Economy” for 23rd year 24 and Trade Office in London (2004-2006). On 1 July 2007, she Hong Kong designers at Paris Fashion Week 24 left the civil service and was appointed a Principal Official Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development visits the Netherlands 25 in the Third Term of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Hong Kong comics artists at Angoulême International Comics Festival 25 Region Government, taking up the position of Secretary Hong Kong Pavilion at Bologna Children’s Book Fair 25 for Development. In 2012 she was appointed Chief Reaching out to European university students and graduates 25 Secretary for Administration, Hong Kong’s “number two” Three orchestras give special concerts for Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary in the Fourth Term of the Hong Kong SAR Government. celebrations in Europe 26 She stepped down in January 2017 to conduct her election Talented cellist Calvin Wong at Rome Chamber Music Festival 27 campaign for the Chief Executive post. Italy to be Partner Country of Business of Design Week 2017 27
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 3 Important milestone for Greater Bay Area development in the Pearl River Delta
The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, Mrs Carrie Lam, and other signatories and officials at the signing ceremony in Hong Kong on 1 July, which was witnessed by President Xi Jinping (back row, centre).
China’s National Development and Reform Commission Agreement are promoting infrastructure connectivity, (NDRC), Guangdong Province, and the Special enhancing the level of market integration, building a Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao signed global technology and innovation hub, building a system a Framework Agreement on Deepening Guangdong-Hong of modern industries through coordinated development, Kong-Macao Cooperation in the Development of the Bay jointly building a quality living circle to provide an ideal Area on 1 July 2017, an important milestone in formulating place for living, working and travelling, cultivating new the development plan for the Greater Bay Area. strengths in international cooperation, and supporting the establishment of major cooperation platforms. The idea of establishing a Greater Bay Area was first promulgated in China’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) in Hong Kong’s status enhanced 2015. In the 2017 Report on the Work of the Government, Premier Li Keqiang expressed the need to draw up a The cooperation goals of the Framework Agreement development plan for a city cluster in the Guangdong-Hong include consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong’s status Kong-Macao Bay Area, giving full play to the distinctive as an international financial, transportation and trade strengths of Hong Kong and Macao. centre; strengthening its status as a global offshore Renminbi business hub and an international asset The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area city cluster management centre; promoting the development of comprises the two Special Administrative Regions (SAR) Hong Kong’s professional services and innovation and Hong Kong and Macao and nine Guangdong cities, technology industries; and establishing a centre for namely Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Huizhou, international legal and dispute resolution services in Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen and Zhaoqing. This the Asia-Pacific Region. The Hong Kong SAR Government initiative is designed to further integrate their economic will, in accordance with the principle of “One Country, activities and to develop external links so as to establish Two Systems”, continue to join hands with the People’s a significant position in the global economy. Government of Guangdong Province and the Macao SAR Government to take forward the development planning The key cooperation areas listed in the Framework for the Bay Area led by the NDRC.
4 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Finance Bond Connect: Mainland Bond Link with Hong Kong
The Mainland currently hosts the third largest bond market in the world, with an outstanding amount of roughly RMB 65 trillion. Nevertheless, in March 2017, the overseas holding of Chinese onshore bonds was only less than 2% of the total holdings. The scheme underlines yet again Hong Kong’s unique and significant role in the opening up of the Mainland’s financial markets to the rest of the world.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, said that the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and Shenzhen- Hong Kong Stock Connect launched in 2014 and 2015 respectively, the Mainland-Hong Kong mutual recognition of funds arrangement launched in 2015 and Bond Connect are all important milestones in the development of mutual capital market access between the Mainland and Hong Kong. These developments exemplify the combined advantages of “one country” and “two systems” enjoyed by Hong Kong.
Under the initial Bond Connect programme, only “northbound” trades (trading of Mainland onshore bonds by foreign and Hong Kong investors) will be allowed. The “southbound” trading will be launched at a later date. Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie Lam, at the launch ceremony for the Bond Connect. More details of the scheme can be found on the website of the Bond Connect The eagerly-anticipated “Bond Connect” scheme was Company Ltd (BCCL), a joint venture between China Foreign Exchange Trade launched at the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd on System (CFETS) and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd (HKEx) that 3 July, allowing overseas investors to access, for the first handles Bond Connect-related trading services, support and assist admission time, Mainland China’s interbank bond market through the preparation for Northbound investors and investor education. infrastructure connection established with Hong Kong. http://www.chinabondconnect.com/en/index.htm Hong Kong becomes member of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
Hong Kong has become a new member of the Asian and financial services sectors can certainly contribute to Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). the success of the AIIB.
On 12 May, the Finance Committee of the Legislative “As the leading international financial center, Hong Kong Council approved the funding for subscription of 7 651 has a sophisticated, robust and highly liquid financial shares of the AIIB’s capital, including 1 530 paid-in shares market, and an abundance of top professionals with amounting to about HK$1.2 billion (US$153.9 million) and global experience, coupled with the unique advantage payable over five years, and 6 121 callable shares. Having of ‘One Country, Two Systems,’” Mr Chan said, noting completed the subsequent legal procedures, Hong Kong that Hong Kong is “well placed to help the AIIB to raise was admitted as a new member of the AIIB. funds to finance various infrastructure projects.”
Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary Paul Chan said that the Hong Kong’s experience and expertise in the design, early completion of its accession process demonstrates construction, operation and management of major Hong Kong’s readiness to support the operation of the infrastructure have also been well proven internationally, AIIB. He underlined that Hong Kong’s professional services he added.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 5 Hong Kong and France conclude Mutual Recognition of Funds pact, Hong Kong’s first with EU Member State
Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) the SFC’s Chief Executive Officer,Mr Ashley Alder said. and France’s Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on “This new cooperation framework is an important France-Hong Kong Mutual Recognition of Funds (MRF) milestone for Hong Kong’s continuous development on 10 July, the first such agreement Hong Kong has as an international asset management centre as it signed with an European Union Member State. opens up the opportunity for Hong Kong funds to be sold in one of the leading markets in the European The MOU establishes a regulatory framework to allow Union. We look forward to working with the AMF with eligible Hong Kong public funds and French UCITS funds our strengthened regulatory ties under the MoU,” he (general equity funds, bond funds and mixed funds) to concluded. be distributed to retail investors in each other’s market through a streamlined authorization process. “This newly established bridge between France and Hong Kong constitutes an important breakthrough It also stipulates a mechanism for regular dialogue and for the French asset management industry seeking to regulatory cooperation, thus enabling the SFC and the develop activities internationally,” the AMF’s Chairman, AMF to fulfill their respective supervisory and regulatory Mr Gérard Rameix, said. mandates. Hong Kong had hitherto concluded similar agreements “Promoting the development of Hong Kong’s asset on various fund products with Mainland China, Taiwan, management industry is one of our strategic objectives”, Malaysia, Australia and Switzerland.
Innovation and Technology Hong Kong and Shenzhen will jointly develop an innovation and technology park
Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs Carrie Lam and Shenzhen Vice Mayor Ai Xuefeng signed the Memorandum of Understanding on 3 January 2017. Chief Executive CY Leung and Shenzhen Mayor Xu Qin witnessed the signing ceremony.
Hong Kong and Shenzhen have signed an agreement to cooperation in scientific research in the Park can attract jointly develop an innovation and technology park located prestigious enterprises, R&D institutions and higher in the Lok Ma Chau Loop*, which will be a key base for education institutions of Hong Kong and Shenzhen, as well co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland in as of other places in the Mainland and overseas, making innovation and technology (I&T) research. full use of the strengths of the two places in creating greater synergy effect. With a site area four times the size of Hong Kong Science Park, the 87-hectare Hong Kong/Shenzhen Innovation The Hong Kong SAR Government will build the park’s basic & Technology Park will be the largest innovation and infrastructure and the Hong Kong Science and Technology technology platform ever set up in Hong Kong. Parks Corporation will set up a subsidiary company to build the superstructure and operate the park. The Hong Kong SAR Government is vigorously promoting I&T, an area where Shenzhen has made remarkable * The Lok Ma Chau Loop is situated in Hong Kong’s New Territories on the developments in recent years. Setting up a key base for boundary between Hong Kong and Shenzhen
6 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 France-HKUST Innovation Hub opens at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
the first time that the French Government has joined forces with a Hong Kong university in such an innovative programme. This strong commitment reflects a long term vision on both sides and a willingness to implement and develop applied research projects together. The hub will serve as an incubator of ideas, opportunities and innovation, promoting aspiration for excellence in innovative projects.
French companies, over 20 of which were represented Officiating at the inauguration ceremony, from left to right, are Tim KT at the opening ceremony, are keen to recruit Hong Kong Cheng, Dean of Engineering and Chair Professor jointly in the Dept. of talents and develop technological cooperation projects, Electronic and Computer Engineering and in the Dept. of Computer Science as evidenced by the strategic partnership established and Engineering; Prof Tony Chan, President of HKUST; and Consul General of in 2014 between HKUST and Thales, or the collaboration France, Mr Eric Berti. established in 2015 between the HKUST-Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Research Alliance and The France-HKUST Innovation Hub was officially Schneider Electric. established at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) on 24 March.
This strategic partnership will provide a one-stop platform for matching the talent and creativity of HKUST students with the experience and business culture of innovative French companies in education, science, technology and entrepreneurship.
While HKUST has forged close ties with the French academic network over the years (École nationale de l’aviation civile (ENAC), CentraleSupélec and École HKUST invited renowned mathematician, Professor Jean-Pierre Bourguignon, nationale supérieure des mines de Saint-Étienne) to President of the European Research Council, to the ceremony. He also gave a co-develop engineering postgraduate studies, this is lecture on “When Fundamental Discoveries Meet Daily Life”. Hong Kong Polytechnic University innovation wins Gold at Geneva inventions exhibition
The Department of Mechanical Engineering of the Hong novel nano-composite in two environmental aspects: Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has developed a solar cells, and photocatalysts for cleaning air. novel method to enhance semi-conductor technology with nanofiber, making it more powerful in a variety of applications, especially in the environmental arena.
The innovation was awarded the Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury at the 45th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva held on 29 March-2 April 2017.
The technology embeds highly conductive nanostructure into semi-conductor nanofiber, producing a novel composite that has superb charge conductivity. Amidst the potentially wide applications of the innovation, the PolyU scientists are working on applying the innovation in solar cells and research team has initially embarked on applying the photocatalysts to clean air.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 7 PolyU wins three TechConnect Global Innovation Awards
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) won three insects in motion vibration control, the novel X-shaped TechConnect Global Innovation Awards at the TechConnect system is of capability to demonstrate nearly “zero World Innovation Conference and Expo in Washington on response” to any vibration, but simultaneously of high 14-17 May 2017. TechConnect is the largest summit for loading capacity. It also features automatic high damping supporting the development and commercialization of for strong vibration, and low damping for small vibration innovations, which gathers more than 4 000 technology (thus preventing high damping’s adverse effect on a innovators, ventures, industrial partners and investors system’s normal functioning during small vibration), from over 70 countries. a unique feature lacking in most vibration control systems. The research team has obtained funding and One of the three awards was for a bio-inspired nonlinear trial support from the construction sector to apply the anti-vibration structure which can significantly reduce patented novel system to the building of an assistive vibration in a wide range of mechanic systems and far anti-vibration exoskeleton for hand-held jackhammers, excels existing devices in cost-efficiency and performance to help prevent hand-arm occupation diseases among reliability. Inspired by the limb structures of birds and construction workers. PolyU launches 3D Research Facility
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has launched the University Research Facility in 3D Printing, the largest research centre in terms of the range and quantity of facilities in Hong Kong. With more than 50 sets of 3D printers for different functions and materials, the facility provides state-of-the-art 3D printing. Healthcare is among the areas that have benefitted from the technology. The Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Simulation Model, developed by PolyU and Hong Kong’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital, is one such invention. It helps heart doctors conduct minimally invasive valve replacement surgery using 3D-printed simulation models of the defective organ.
The Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Simulation Model. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology develops new system for Augmented Reality enthusiasts
Augmented Reality (AR), a technology which bugged AR app developers and users for a long time. superimposes virtual objects onto the view of the real- Although AR is widely used on mobile and wearable world environment, is the next big thing for mobile devices like smartphones and smartglasses, it requires devices. It has exploded in popularity for personal a lot of computing power to process the sounds and entertainment and business. virtual images. CloudRidAR offloads intensive computing tasks from a mobile device onto a cloud, or onto a more Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science powerful device nearby, so that the large amounts of and Technology (HKUST)’s DT System and Media Lab data coming with the AR apps will no longer overwhelm (SyMLab) are building a novel AR platform for mobile users’ mobile devices. The new platform helps speed up devices, to facilitate an ecosystem for entrepreneurs data processing by more than ten times and reduces the and programmers to develop AR programmes and battery consumption of mobile devices. The project has applications on mobile and wearable devices. received over HK$2 million (EUR 203,000) funding from the Hong Kong Government’s Innovation and Technology CloudRidAR, a cloud-based infrastructure for mobile Commission. augmented reality, helps solve a problem that has
8 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 The Hong Kong Drum Ensemble, led by Mr Ronald Chin, gave lively performances. HKETO, Brussels opens year of 20th anniversary celebrations with Chinese New Year events
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels double advantage of ‘One Country, Two Systems’, she (HKETO, Brussels) launched a year of celebrations in said. Europe to mark the 20th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong “We have benefited greatly from the vast opportunities Kong SAR) by hosting or co-hosting Chinese New Year that have arisen, and are still arising, from the opening receptions in 16 EU cities (Athens, Barcelona, Brussels, up and blooming of China’s economy, with our social Bucharest, Catania, Dublin, Lisbon, Luxembourg City, and cultural ties to the Mainland and preferential access Madrid, Milan, Paris, Sofia, The Hague, Thessaloniki, to the China market. Venice and Zagreb) between 25 January and 21 March 2017, attended by a total of more than 3 500 guests. “At the same time, Hong Kong has facilitated China to expand its business worldwide with our unique niches Musical entertainment in Barcelona, Brussels, Dublin, as an international city renowned for our free movement Madrid, Paris and The Hague was provided by the Hong of trade, capital and information, the rule of law, as well Kong Drum Ensemble, which played a selection of unique as a simple and low tax regime. We take pride in serving arrangements. The Ensemble was led by Mr Ronald Chin, as the ‘super-connector’ between the Mainland of China who was released by courtesy of the Hong Kong Chinese and the rest of the world.” Orchestra for this special European tour. Ms Lam said Hong Kong is widely recognised as one of The Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and the best and easiest places in the world to do business. Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam, told Among Hong Kong’s many core advantages, the ability guests this was a milestone year for Hong Kong. to continue to adapt to new circumstances and seize new economic trends has certainly contributed to its “In this unprecedented journey, Hong Kong has gained success story. valuable experience making complementary use of the -->
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 9 The reception in Paris, held at the historic Salle Wagram.
The Hong Kong SAR Government is supporting the growth business sectors that Hong Kong and Luxembourg, the engines of today and the future, such as innovation and euro area’s leading financial centre, expect their bilateral technology, start-ups and financial technologies. Being relations to continue to grow and flourish in years to the most important global financial and trading hub in come. China, Hong Kong is also playing a key and active role in China’s visionary Belt and Road Initiative. Xavier Bettel and Didier Reynders
Ms Shirley Lam with Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Didier Reynders (centre) and the Chairman of the Belgium-Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet Steel, at the Chinese New Year reception in Brussels on 7 February.
Mr Reynders said that in Belgium as well as Hong Kong, Ms Shirley Lam, with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Mr Xavier Bettel at the Belgian officials and citizens would certainly participate Chinese New Year reception in Luxembourg on 15 February. with great enthusiasm in the 20th anniversary cultural activities and celebrations. He noted that the HKETO, Among the guests of honour at the receptions were the Brussels had lined up an interesting programme of Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Mr Xavier Bettel, and activities, and said one of the highlights would definitely Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign be a concert by the Asian Youth Orchestra in Brussels on Affairs and European Affairs, Mr Didier Reynders. 5 September.
Mr Bettel and Ms Lam told over 400 government officials “I also welcome the participation of a group of young and representatives of the financial, insurance and people from Hong Kong in the “Oxfam Trailwalker”
10 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 starting in Eupen in Belgium (see page 14), and their planned meetings with Belgian youngsters of the three regions along the way,” he added, noting that a Belgian group would be invited to take part in a similar walk in Hong Kong in November 2017. Belt and Road business seminars
Seminars focusing on presenting Hong Kong’s unique role in the Belt and Road Initiative were organised in Athens, Bucharest, Catania, Sofia, Thessaloniki,V enice and Zagreb before the Chinese New Year receptions, in cooperation with the respective chambers of commerce, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and InvestHK. <-- Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, at the business seminar in Thessaloniki.
<-- Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Sam Hui, addressing participants in the business seminar in Croatia.
HKETO, Brussels marks Hong Kong SAR’s 20th anniversary “Hong Kong has much to celebrate”
HKETO, Brussels celebrated the 20th anniversary of the been acting as the ‘super-connector’ between Mainland establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative China and the rest of the world,” she added. Region with events in Luxembourg, Brussels and Rotterdam in June. Luxembourg
The Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Lam, said Hong Kong has much to celebrate. Over the past 20 years, Hong Kong has benefited greatly from its strong link to China, the world’s fastest growing economy.
“Our vibrant city has continued to prosper, full of dynamism, opportunities, talent and creativity. It has grown in importance in the international arena under the combined advantages of ‘One Country, Two Systems’,” Ms Lam said. Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, “For many years, Hong Kong has been one of the most Ms Shirley Lam, with the Vice President of Luxembourg’s Chamber Deputies, important financial centres in the world and it has Mr Laurent Mosar, at the Luxembourg reception.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 11 The talented Yat Po Singers, a professional a cappella choral theatre company from Hong Kong, performing in Luxembourg.
On 28 June, HKETO, Brussels co-organised a reception The talented Yat Po Singers with the Association des Ressortissants Cantonais au Luxembourg. The guest of honour was the Vice In Luxembourg and in Brussels, the Yat Po Singers, the first President of Luxembourg’s Chamber of Deputies, Mr professional a cappella choral theatre company in Hong Laurent Mosar, who congratulated the Hong Kong SAR Kong focusing on developing original theatrical works, on its 20th anniversary and conveyed his best wishes gave warmly applauded performances with a programme for the future. that included the theme song of the 20th Anniversary celebrations namely “Hong Kong Our Home”. Brussels Rotterdam In Brussels on 29 June, the reception was co-organised by HKETO, Brussels and the Belgium-Hong Kong A business seminar followed by a gala dinner was held in Society. It was attended by representatives of the Rotterdam on 30 June. international diplomatic corps, including the Head of the Chinese Mission to the EU, Ms Yang Yangyi, and The theme of the seminar was “Rotterdam and Hong the Chinese Ambassador to Belgium, Mr Qu Xing, as Kong make One Belt, One Road Work for You”, and it was well as representatives from the Belgian authorities, co-organised by the Netherlands Hong Kong Business the European Commission, the European Parliament, Association, HKETO, Brussels, Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), chambers of commerce, education institutions and the the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, and the City media, plus members of the Hong Kong community and Port of Rotterdam. living in Belgium.
Posing with the Yat Po Singers at the reception in Brussels are Ms Yang Yangyi (5th left), Mr Qu Xing (3rd left), Ms Shirley Lam (4th left) and the Chairman of the Belgium-Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet Steel (3rd right).
12 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Posing with the Yat Po Singers (front row) are the representative of the City of Brussels, Mr David Weytsman, shaking hands with Ms Shirley Lam, the representative of the Order of the Friends of Manneken-Pis (right) and Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi (left).
<-- Brussels icon Manneken-Pis, wearing his Hong Kong costume on the occasion of the Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary.
In her welcoming remarks, Deputy Representative of arriving by sea, and the Chengdu-Tilburg-Rotterdam- HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, encouraged Dutch Express, the first rail shuttle between China and the companies to make use of Hong Kong’s advantages to Netherlands launched in June 2016, already made the tap Belt and Road opportunities. city part of the new Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st- century Maritime Silk Road. “Hong Kong, with its vast experience, expertise and connections in financial, professional and business The Head of Consumer Products at InvestHK, Miss services has what the Belt and Road needs to play a Angelica Leung spoke about “Sourcing operations in critical role in its progress.” Hong Kong” in the panel discussion on “Growing your company using the new Silk Road”. Miss Choi noted that the Port of Rotterdam, as the premier destination in Europe for Chinese cargo The seminar was followed by a Hong Kong SAR 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner with the Mayor of Rotterdam, Mr Ahmed Aboutaleb and the Chinese Ambassador to the Netherlands, Mr Wu Ken as the guests of honour. Manneken-Pis wears his Hong Kong costume
During the week of 20th anniversary celebrations, HKETO, Brussels in co-operation with the City of Brussels and folklore organisation the Order of the Friends of Manneken-Pis arranged for the city’s favourite son to be dressed in his Hong Kong costume on 30 June. Ms Shirley Lam (centre) at the Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary dinner in This was the third time the famous little boy wore the Rotterdam with (front row) Mayor of Rotterdam, Mr Ahmed Aboutaleb (third costume, which HKETO, Brussels donated to the City in right); the Ambassador of the PRC to the Netherlands, HE Mr Wu Ken, (fourth 2012. The Yat Po Singers performed to an eager crowd right); Director Europe, HKTDC, Mr William Chui, (second right); the Chairman of guests, tourists and passers-by at the ceremony on of the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association Mr Hans Poulis, (third a street corner near the Grand-Place, Brussels’ famous left), and other guests. central square.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 13 Walkers at the launch on the top of Lion Rock. HKETO, Brussels invites Hong Kong youths to take 100km walking challenge in Belgium
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and promote the Hong Kong can-do spirit, HKETO, Brussels is arranging for 20 young people from Hong Kong aged 20 to visit Belgium on 24-31 August, to participate in the 100- kilometre Oxfam Trailwalker event and various exchange activities. The programme, entitled “Walk the Hong Kong Spirit”, was formally launched at Lion Rock – a popular Hong Kong hiking location and a famous landmark – on 21 January 2017.
The Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Godfrey Leung, together with the Belgian Consul General, Ms Michèle Deneffe, and the President of the Hong Kong Professionals and Senior Executives HKETO, Brussels also sponsored the Oxfam Peacewalker challenge on 29 April. Association, Mr Chan Siu-hung, spoke of their strong The winners received an invitation for the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in support for the programme at the launch ceremony. Antwerp on 16 September 2017. Golf tournament in Naarden to celebrate Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary
Around 140 golfers, mostly Hong Kong citizens living in the second generation of Hong Kong permanent residents Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and the living overseas. UK, took part in a “Golf Invitational” co-organised by HKETO, Brussels and the Dutch Chinese Golf Association in Naarden, the Netherlands, on 12 June, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR.
The Mayor of Gooies Meren, Mr Han ter Heedge, officiated at the opening ceremony together with Miss Alice Choi, Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels. The tournament was followed by a networking dinner at which Miss Choi briefed guests on new business opportunities available in Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, with Mayor of Hong Kong arising from the Belt and Road Initiative and Gooies Meren, Mr Han ter Heedge (third right) and the Chairman of the Dutch the Greater Bay Area project. They were also encouraged to Chinese Golf Association, Mr Eddie Lau (second left) at the 20th anniversary of make good use of the special talent admission scheme for the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR Golf Invitational.
14 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Hong Kong Michelin-starred chefs delight diners at Vinexpo in Bordeaux
Standing in front of the Hong Kong pop-up restaurant at Vinexpo are Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, Ms Shirley Lam, and Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Mr Anthony Lau (third right) with (from left to right), Chefs Ting Wai-lam, Yip Kar-on, Leung Fai- keung and Mak Kwai-pui.
A Hong Kong pop-up restaurant opened during the and Hong Kong’s development into the wine trading Vinexpo fair in Bordeaux on 18-21 June 2017 to promote hub of Asia. Hong Kong as Asia’s culinary capital to French and international visitors. “We have concluded wine cooperation agreements with wine-producing countries like France and regions like HKETO, Brussels supported the event, organised by the Bordeaux, Burgundy, and recently Comité Champagne on Hong Kong Tourism Board, on the occasion of the 20th 27 April 2017 (see page 24). These agreements facilitate anniversary of the Hong Kong SAR. co-operation in wine and related education and training, the culinary arts, tourism and trading activities”, Ms The restaurant presented a special menu created by Lam said. Michelin-awarded chefs from Hong Kong, Chef Ting Wai Lam and Chef Yip Kar On of the restaurant Guo Fu Lou, “Our population’s interest in, and knowledge of wine has and Chef Leung Fai Keung and Chef Mak Kwai Pui of greatly increased over the years, helped by events like Tim Ho Wan restaurant. They worked with Bordeaux the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s hugely popular annual Chef Jérôme Billot of Restaurant Dan, who has received Wine and Dine Festival”, she continued. awards for his Hong Kong-influenced cuisine. It was also an opportunity to showcase Hong Kong’s skill in food “Hong Kong is a culinary paradise, where all kinds of and wine matching. cuisine can be found at their best, and we have many starred restaurants. We also have some of the most Speaking at a media luncheon in the restaurant, affordable Michelin-recommended restaurants. And some Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic of the street food is so good it is also recommended in and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley the guide,” Ms Lam added. Lam, mentioned among Hong Kong’s considerable achievements over the last 20 years the abolition of Vinexpo is an annual wine fair held in Bordeaux and duty on wine in 2008, which led to a surge in imports Hong Kong on alternate years.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 15 Aviation Hong Kong International Aviation Academy launched Joint programmes with France’s ENAC
President of the HKIAA, Mrs Vivian Cheung, and the President of ENAC, Mr Marc Houalla sign a collaboration agreement on 16 December 2016. Witnessing the signing are Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mr CY Leung (back row, left) and the Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr Eric Berti (back row, right).
The Hong Kong International Aviation Academy (HKIAA) With ENAC’s help, the academy will also attract aviation established by Hong Kong’s Airport Authority (AA) last practitioners from the Mainland of China and the “Belt and year launched its first courses in April 2017. The AA and Road” countries and regions. In the Mainland, aviation world-renowned Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC) professionals will be in rising demand as the country are collaborating on offering joint programmes, the first makes great strides in aviation and aerospace, with plans being an Advanced Master in Air Transport Management. to build 66 new airports over the next five years, raising the number of airports in the Mainland to 272. The Academy will nurture local and regional air transport management talents and further strengthen Hong Kong’s To arouse young people’s interest in the aviation industry, leading position as a regional and international aviation the Academy held aviation summer day camps and a hub. It will also support the long-term development of the Certificate in Airport Services and Operations programme Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and sustainable (with a 12-month internship) in July and August. growth of the aviation industry. Details on the HKIAA and its courses are available at the following website: As of June 2017, the number of students enrolled exceeded http://www.hkinternationalaviationacademy.com 600, and the total intake for the academic year will reach around 3 000. Hong Kong and Spain sign Air Services Agreement
Hong Kong and Spain signed an Air Services Agreement that provides a legal framework for establishing air links between them. The Agreement will promote economic development and cultural exchanges between the two places.
The Agreement was signed in Madrid on 9 May by Secretary for Transport Professor Antony Cheung on behalf of Hong Kong and Minister of Public Works and Transport Iñigo de la Serna on behalf of Spain. This was the 67th agreement signed by Hong Kong with overseas Professor Anthony Cheung (right), exchanges the signed air services aviation partners. agreement with the Spanish Minister of Public Works and Transport, Mr Iñigo de la Serna (left).
16 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Aircraft leasing: Hong Kong offers tax concessions
Following the entry into force of the Inland Revenue • QLs and QMs must satisfy the “central management (Amendment)(No.3) Ordinance 2017 on 7 July, Hong and control” and “substantial activity” requirements, Kong now offers tax concessions for aircraft leasing. The including whether the SPV used for aircraft leasing provisions are as following. has substantial connection with a QM in Hong Kong.
• The profits tax rate has been halved to 8.25% for • Actual ownership of aircraft is not required. qualifying profits of qualifying aircraft lessors (“QLs”) and aircraft leasing managers (“QMs”) payable, Under this proposed regime, the effective tax rate for received or accrued after 1 April 2017. offshore aircraft leasing activities in Hong Kong is down to around 4.3%. • Only 20% of the rentals derived from qualifying offshore aircraft leasing activities will be subject to Leveraging on the ample liquidity in Hong Kong’s banking profits tax after deducting allowable expenses. system, dynamic debt and capital markets and a large pool of investor capital, the Government is confident that • QLs and QMs must be a corporation that is not an Hong Kong can be developed into a competitive market aircraft operator. for aircraft leasing business.
• Aimed at “operating lease”. For more information, please contact: Invest Hong Kong, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels • Built on the special purpose vehicle (SPV) model of [email protected] the leasing business. https://www.elegislation.gov.hk/hk/2017/9!en Hong Kong International Airport’s excellence in efficiency and cargo services wins prestigious awards
The operational efficiency and air cargo services of Hong year-long research efforts by the leading international Kong International Airport (HKIA) respectively have been academics of the ATRS Global Airport Benchmarking Task recognised again by two prestigious international awards Force. in July: the “Top Asian Airport Efficiency Excellence Award” from the Air Transport Research Society (ATRS), Meanwhile, HKIA has been named the “Best Global and the “Best Global Airport” from Asia Cargo News. Airport” in The Asian Freight, Logistics & Supply Chain Awards (AFLAS) of Asia Cargo News for the second It is the seventh time HKIA received the “Top Asian Airport consecutive year. HKIA is commended for its development Efficiency Excellence Award” in ATRS’s Global Airport of cargo-related infrastructure, cost competitiveness and Benchmarking Report since the award scheme was facilitation of air cargo ancillary services. AFLAS awards launched in 2003. Rated against Asia Pacific counterparts honour outstanding organisations for their leadership, serving over 40 million passengers annually, HKIA is consistency in service quality, innovation, customer recognised for its excellence in operating and managerial relationship management and reliability. Nominations efficiency, cost competitiveness, financial performance for the awards are made by freight and logistics industry and airport charges. Results were obtained following players and votes are cast by Asia Cargo News readers.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 17 Art and Creative Industries Secretary for Home Affairs inaugurates Samson Young’s exhibition at Venice Biennale
Pictured at the inauguration with Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Lau Kong-wah (fifth left) and Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the EU, Ms Shirley Lam (second right) are Minister Counsellor of the PRC Embassy in Italy, Ms Zheng Xuan (third left), Chairman of HKADC, Dr Wilfred Wong (fourth right), CEO of WKCDA, Mr Duncan Mr Lau Kong-wah (left), listens to Belgian artist Koen Pescod (third right), and artist Samson Young (fifth right). Vanmechelen as he introduces his artwork.
Award-winning emerging artist and composer, Samson District Authority (WKCDA), the two organisations that Young, is representing Hong Kong at the 57th International collaborated to present Samson Young’s exhibition. Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale, which runs until 26 November 2017. While in Venice, Mr Lau met with the Minister of Culture of the Veneto Regional Government, Mr Cristiano Corazzari, Young’s new body of work for the biennale aims to create to identify opportunities for cultural co-operation. a unique audio-visual experience. Using spatial sound installations and site-specific works as its axis, the exhibition, “Songs for Disaster Relief”, presents a series of drawings, objects, videos and installations which take a fresh look at iconic songs made by popular artists for charitable causes, with a view to exploring their social, political and philosophical implications.
Born in Hong Kong in 1979, Young holds a PhD in composition from Princeton University. He was the inaugural winner of the Art Basel-BMW Art Journey Award in 2015. One of his best-known works is “For whom the bell tolls”, a project started in 2015 that has him travelling around the world and making recordings of bells as a way to understand the history of conflicts.
Secretary for Home Affairs Mr Lau Kong-wah inaugurated the Hong Kong Pavilion on 11 May. He also attended the opening ceremonies of the Chinese Pavilion and the Macao Pavilion and visited pavilions of different countries and regions. He attended a gala dinner jointly organised by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council (HKADC) Mr Lau met with the Minister of Culture of the Veneto Regional Government, and the M+ museum of the West Kowloon Cultural Mr Cristiano Corazzari, on 12 May.
18 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Hong Kong design exhibition at La Triennale di Milano
Mr So with with the Deputy Mayor of Milan for Tourism, Sport and Quality of Life, Mr So with the Lombardy Regional Minister of Economic Ms Roberta Guaineri. Development, Mr Mauro Parolini.
With the support of HKETO, Brussels, the Hong Kong hosted a sumptuous feast of Hong Kong street food as Design Centre presented “Confluence: 20+ Creative one of the peripheral events of “Confluence.20+”. Ecologies of Hong Kong” a monumental exhibition, at La Triennale di Milano on 4-16 April 2017. Mr So also met with the Deputy Mayor of Milan for Tourism, Sport and Quality of Life, Ms Roberta Guaineri, Officiating at the opening, Hong Kong’s Secretary for and the Lombardy Regional Minister of Economic Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, Development, Mr Mauro Parolini, to brief them on said that Hong Kong, being Asia’s world city, is well the economic opportunities for Italian enterprises in positioned for the design industries to flourish. In a place Hong Kong. He also met with key persons from Italian where the East meets the West, Hong Kong designers creative industries. are multi-lingual and multi-cultural, which hugely assists them to prove their worth internationally.
Featuring 20 collaborative endeavours by Hong Kong designers, the exhibition demonstrated the creative edge of Hong Kong designers - be they based in Hong Kong or in the diaspora. Highlights included renowned architect and furniture designer Lo Chi Wing’s latest furniture collection, Elaine Ng’s responsive lighting installation inspired by nature, Gary Chang’s exploration of compact living, and a collection of totally unique vases that set forth a reminiscence of the history of porcelain industry in Jingdezhen by Julie Progin & Jesse Mc Lin. The exhibition will also be presented in Hong Kong, Seoul and Chicago in different months throughout the year.
Earlier, Mr So visited Zona Tortona, a design-related Professor Eric Yim, Chairman of the Board of the Hong Kong Design Centre cluster in Milan, and Eataly Milan Smeraldo, which (right), gave the delegation a tour of the exhibition.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 19 Eric Tsang thanks the audience again after stepping off the stage with the Golden Mulberry Award for Lifetime Achievement. Far East Film Festival in Udine presents Creative Visions: Hong Kong Cinema 1997-2017 A programme of 10 Hong Kong films in different Special restoration of Fruit Chan’s “Made genres, including action, drama, romance and comedy, in Hong Kong” highlighted 20 years of Hong Kong cinema in a specially curated programme, “Creative Visions: Hong Kong A highlight of the festival was the international premiere Cinema 1997-2017”, at the 19th Far East Film Festival in of the 4K restored version of the first feature film by Udine, Italy (21-29 April 2017). Fruit Chan.
The films ranged from works by veterans from the Hong Kong New Wave and filmmakers who came to prominence in the last two decades to films by a newer generation of directors. The programme was presented by Create Hong Kong in partnership with the Centro Espressioni Cinematografiche which organises the annual Far East Film Festival.
“The Far East Film Festival began in 1998 with a programme of Hong Kong films,” explained the festival president Ms Sabrina Baracetti. “The films were enthusiastically received by our audiences, not only from Italy but also Fruit Chan attended the screening of “Made in Hong Kong”. from around Europe.” “‘Made in Hong Kong’” was one of the first films we Mulberry Award for actor Eric Tsang presented from Hong Kong, so we are very pleased to have been instrumental in the restoration of this seminal One of the icons of Hong Kong cinema, Eric Tsang received work,” Ms Baracetti said. a Golden Mulberry Award for Lifetime Achievement on 27 April. Fruit Chan attended the screening of the film, restored by Bologna laboratory L’Immagine Ritrovata, which also Mr Tsang acted in “Kung Fu Yoga” directed by Stanley has an office in Hong Kong. Other films in the programme Tong, and in “Vampire Cleanup Department” and “Mad included works by Hong Kong filmmakers such asJohnnie World”, directed by newcomers Chiu Sin-hang and Wong To and Pang Ho-cheung, who have become regular Chun respectively. He has appeared in many of Hong visitors and supporters of the festival. The programme Kong’s most famous films, including “Infernal Affairs”. of 10 films also included work byA nn Hui, Wong Kar-wai All these films were screened at the festival. and Soi Cheang among others.
20 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Stephen Chow’s film “Mermaid” wins Silver Raven at BIFFF
HKETO Brussels supported the 35th Brussels International Fantasy, Fantastic, Thriller and Science Fiction Film Festival (BIFFF) held on 4-16 April 2017. Nine Hong Kong films were screened at the festival, including the films of the “From Vegas to Macau” trilogy, which were shown in Belgium for the first time.
Stephen Chow’s film Mermaid“ ”, which was selected for the international competition, won a Silver Raven, the Special Prize of the Jury.
Stanley Tong, director of “Rumble in the Bronx” presented his latest blockbuster starring Jackie Chan, “Kung Fu Yoga”.
PointCulture ULB Ixelles cooperated with BIFFF to present Toasting the 20th anniversary of the Hong Kong SAR and the 35th anniversary a journey of discovery of Hong Kong cinema. For a whole of BIFFF, from left to right, Vice-President and Programme Director of BIFFF, month, visitors to the cultural centre/film library could Mr Freddy Bozzo; Chairman of the Belgium-Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet Steel; borrow DVDs of films made in Hong Kong over the last 20 Deputy Representative, HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi; and film director Mr years and the centre also screened trailers of the films. Stanley Tong. “Mad World” opens Amsterdam’s CinemAsia Film Festival
one of the Festival’s sponsors again and to share Hong Kong movies with Dutch film lovers.
Speaking at the opening reception, the Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government wants to encourage more local film production and nurture new talents, notably through the Film Development Fund and Create Hong Kong’s First Feature Film Initiative (FFFI). She noted that “Mad World”, which has already received a number of nominations at various prestigious film festivals, is one of the films supported by the FFFI, Co-producer of Mad World, Ms Heiward Mak, receiving the award on behalf which identifies new talents through a competition on of the film’s director, Wong Chun. screenplay and production proposals.
The first feature film of a young Hong Kong directorMad “ The film was then introduced by the Festival Director, Ms World” by Wong Chun, opened the 10th CinemAsia Film Lorna Tee, who moderated a question-and-answer session Festival in Amsterdam on 7 March. The film received the between the audience and a producer of “Mad World”, Best First Time Director award by the Student Jury. Hong Kong writer and film directorHeiward Mak.
The CinemAsia Film Festival is dedicated to broadening the The Festival also screened “Taxi Stories” by Doris Yeung horizons of the Dutch film audience by offering the best of and Boo Junfeng’s “Apprentice”, a Hong Kong co- contemporary Asian film. It strives to bring together Dutch production. On the occasion of its 10th edition, the Festival and Asian communities and its FilmLAB initiative provides added an additional “Iconic” category, for which eight a creative platform for media makers to tell stories from Dutch celebrities were asked to choose their favourite the Dutch Asian diaspora. The Hong Kong Economic and film. Dutch film director Norbert ter Hall selected Wong Trade Office, Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) was proud to be Kar-wai’s “Chungking Express” as his iconic choice.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 21 “Little Big Master” opens Dragon Film Festival in Florence
Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Alice Choi, addresses the audience at the opening of the Dragon Film Festival in Florence.
Adrian Kwan’s film “Little Big Master” inaugurated the Florence EurAsia Association. Seven recent Hong Kong fourth edition of the Dragon Film Festival in Florence and productions were on the programme, including Ruby Prato on 19 April 2017. Yang’s documentary about the Asian Youth Orchestra, “In Search of Perfect Consonance”. Adrian Kwan and the film’s screenwriter,Hannah Cheung were guests of honour at the opening reception. The second day of the festival was dedicated entirely to Hong Kong cinema with “Return of the Cuckoo” by The festival was presented by the Hong Kong Economic Patrick Kong and Wong Kar-wai’s “The Grandmaster”, a and Trade Office in Brussels, in co-operation with tribute to a great Kung fu master.
Director of Little Big Master, Adrian Kwan, replies to questions about his film at the Dragon Film Festival.
22 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Legends of Lion Dance exhibition in Antwerp showcases Hong Kong’s cultural heritage
Belgium’s port city of Antwerp got into the spirit Deputy Representative of the HKETO, Brussels, Miss of Chinese New Year with the Legends of Lion Dance Alice Choi, and Alderman for City Development, Sports exhibition, which showcased Hong Kong’s cultural and Diamonds of the City of Antwerp, Mr Ludo van heritage and traditional crafts at Permeke Bibliotheek on Campenhout, officiated at the opening, which featured 27 January-16 February. an expertly-performed lion dance attended by over 100 guests. The exhibition displayed 12 authentic and unique lion heads, embroidered and adorned by skilled Hong Kong Miss Choi said, “The lion dance is an important part craftsmen using traditional techniques. Visitors learned of Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. It gives more colour how lion heads are made and how this traditional craft to our festive celebrations and trains young people to has been passed down generations of artisans in Hong persevere and strive for better performance. We are Kong, as well as the legends and stories associated with proud to play a role in passing on this unique form of the lion dance. traditional art to future generations and to share it with our European friends.” With the support of HKETO, Brussels and the Belgium- Hong Kong Society, a locally-born second generation member of the Hong Kong community Mr Joe Choi, of the Choi Lee Fat Belgium Association and Wong Man Sun Kung Fu Lion and Dragon Dance School, expressed his passion for this unique blend of tradition and martial arts by putting together this exhibition.
Mr Choi, a veteran lion-dance performer with 20 years of experience, said he had noticed that while western onlookers enjoy the authenticity and beauty of the traditional dance, they do not always understand the meaning behind it. The aim of the exhibition was to Officiating at the opening were Alderman of the City of Antwerp, Mr Ludo increase visitors’ knowledge and understanding and van Campenhout (second left), Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, thus enhance their appreciation of the traditional art Miss Alice Choi and Chairman of the Belgium Hong Kong Society, Mr Piet and its importance in Hong Kong culture. Steel (first left). The exhibition was organised by Mr Joe Choi (second right).
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 23 News in brief Hong Kong signs co-operation agreement with Comité Champagne
On 27 April 2017, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Co-operation in Wine-related Businesses with the two visiting Presidents of Comité Champagne of France, Mr Jean-Marie Barillère and Mr Maxime Toubart.
Comité Champagne is the trade association that represents the interests of independent champagne producers and champagne houses.
HKETO, Brussels organised a seminar in the Champagne- The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So (left) producing region in early March 2017 to promote Hong and the Presidents of Comité Champagne of France, Mr Jean-Marie Barillère Kong as the wine hub in Asia. (centre) and Mr Maxime Toubart sign the agreement.
Hong Kong has always been an excellent platform for in Asia and 14th worldwide among export markets for champagne growers and champagne houses to share champagne. their passion in vines and wines with connoisseurs and professionals in the region, and the MOU will facilitate co- Since August 2008, Hong Kong has entered into similar operation in wine and champagne-related education and wine co-operation agreements with Australia, Chile, training, culinary arts, tourism and trading activities. France (and its Bordeaux and Burgundy regions), Germany, Hungary, Italy, New Zealand, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong is a free port for wine as well as a key Slovenia, Spain and the United States (and its Oregon champagne market. In 2016, Hong Kong ranked second and Washington states). Hong Kong “World’s Freest Economy” for 23rd year
The US-based Heritage Foundation ranked Hong Kong as Singapore, the second freest economy, has widened further. the world’s freest economy for the 23rd consecutive year on 16 February 2017. Among the 12 components measured in the report, Hong Kong achieved high scores of 90 or above in eight components According to the foundation’s 2017 Index of Economic and attained the top positions in fiscal health, trade Freedom Report, Hong Kong scored 89.8 out of 100, well freedom and financial freedom. The foundation recognised above the global average of 60.9. Hong Kong’s overall Hong Kong’s sound legal system, low tolerance for score increased after two years of decline and its lead over corruption, effective regulatory systems and open markets. Hong Kong designers at Paris Fashion Week
Emerging Hong Kong designers staged a catwalk show and a showroom event at Paris Fashion Week (2017 Autumn-Winter Collections) in March 2017, with the help of Fashion Farm Foundation. The Hong Kong Fashion Guerilla show featured Cynthia & Xiao, FfiXXed Studios, Berayah, HANG, Methodology, kenaxleung and Vanessa Tao – brands that may one day become household names. Hong Kong fashion designers will also take part in the next Paris Fashion Week with a catwalk show on 27 September 2017. The catwalk show.
24 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development visits the Netherlands
The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So visited Schiphol and The Hague on 6-7 June before heading to Paris for the OECD MCM’s Trade and Investment Session on 8 June 2017. Mr So attended a roundtable business luncheon with the Chairman of the Netherlands-Hong Kong Business Association, Mr Hans Poulis, and a group of Dutch business people in Schiphol. Afterwards he travelled to The Hague to meet with the Mayor, Ms Pauline Krikke and brief her on opportunities for Dutch businesses in Hong Kong. Mr Gregory So with the Mayor of The Hague, Ms Pauline Krikke Angoulême International Comics Festival
HKETO, Brussels supported “The Pitch of Tension - Hong Kong Comics Power”, an exhibition of Hong Kong comics artists at the 44th Angoulême International Comics Festival (26-29 January). The comics creators gave demonstrations and talks during the festival.
Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Mr Sam Hui (third right) and Executive Director of the Hong Kong Arts Centre, Ms Connie Lam (second right) with the comics artists. Bologna Children’s Book Fair
With the support of HKETO, Brussels, the Hong Kong Publishing and Printing Industry set up a Hong Kong Pavilion at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair on 3-6 April 2017. It showcased over 1 000 books, printed works and electronic publications from more than 40 Hong Kong exhibitors. After the Fair the books were donated to the University for Foreigners of Siena.
The Hong Kong Pavilion at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. Reaching out to European university students and graduates
HKETO, Brussels gave talks at the Delft University of Technology, the Luxembourg School of Finance, the KU Leuven in Brussels, the Bocconi University of Milan and the University for Foreigners in Siena to brief students on the vast postgraduate study and business opportunities available in Hong Kong. They were told about various talent admission schemes that are available, such as the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates and the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. The University for Foreigners in Siena.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 25 Three orchestras give special concerts for Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary celebrations in Europe
The youngest member of the Hong Kong Festival Youth Wind Orchestra takes a bow after singing with the Orchestra.
Three Hong Kong orchestras, the Hong Kong Festival Youth “We are constructing one of the world’s largest cultural Wind Orchestra, the Hong Kong Sinfonietta and the Asian projects, the 40-hectare West Kowloon Cultural District, Youth Orchestra are performing in Europe this summer along the waterfront of our beautiful harbour. Its theatres with the support of the HKETO, Brussels as a highlight and museums are being completed one by one, giving us of celebrations in Europe to mark the 20th anniversary of another place for our citizens and visitors to relax, draw the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR. inspiration and experience cultural and arts diversities. We are also fortunate to have many talented artists and The Hong Kong Festival Youth Wind Orchestra, comprising musicians in our city,” he said. 40 young musicians, gave performances at the Lisbon International Youth Music Festival on 21, 22 and 25 July. It then went to Barcelona, where it gave a special Hong Kong SAR 20th anniversary concert on 27 July. Entitled “Moonlight Dragon - When East Meets West”, the concert at Casino L’Aliança del Poblenou featured both Chinese and Spanish music. Duo Antwerp, formed by Dani Bellovi, a Spanish bass clarinettist and Adilia Yip, a Hong Kong percussionist living in Belgium, performed with the Orchestra.
Addressing the audience before the concert, Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Sam Hui, said that one remarkable development over the last 20 years was that Hong Kong is fast becoming an international, The Hong Kong Sinfonietta at the Marvão International Music Festival in cosmopolitan centre for culture and the arts. Marvão Castle.
26 Hong Kong News Summer 2017 One of Hong Kong’s flagship orchestras, theHong Kong SAR 20th anniversary performances in Europe as part of Sinfonietta, performed at major music festivals in its international summer tour. Portugal and France. Under Music Director Yip Wing- sie, it gave concerts on 21 and 23 July at the historic Conducted by its Artistic Director, Richard Pontzious, Marvão Castle, during the 4th Marvão International the AYO performed before 600 people at the Airbus Music Festival held in the Portuguese walled city. In Leadership University in Toulouse on 21 August. The France on 25 and 26 July it performed in the beautiful event was organised by HKETO, Brussels in collaboration setting of Parc du Château de Florans at the 37th with Cathay Pacific Airways and Airbus. In Spain, the International Piano Festival of La Roque d’Antheron. AYO gave concerts in Santander and San Sebastian on The Hong Kong Sinfonietta also performed at one of 22 and 23 August respectively. the oldest festivals in Europe, the 68th Menton Music Festival, on 29 July. HKETO, Brussels has also invited AYO to perform at the Centre for Fine Arts Bozar in Brussels, Belgium on Another of Hong Kong’s finest orchestras, the Asian 5 September, as the grand finale of its international Youth Orchestra (AYO), is also giving special Hong Kong summer tour.
The Hong Kong Festival Youth Wind Orchestra performs with Duo Antwerp, formed by Dani Bellovi, a Spanish bass clarinettist and Adilia Yip, a Hong Kong percussionist living in Belgium. Talented cellist Calvin Wong at Rome Chamber Music Festival
A talented young cellist from Hong Kong, Calvin Wong, Calvin Wong was one of the 21 young artists chosen to took part in the 14th Rome Chamber Music Festival with study and perform with Festival artists in the beautiful the support of HKETO, Brussels. The Festival presents Palazzo Barberini, a landmark of Baroque architecture a diverse programme of masterworks performed by and home to the national fine arts gallery, Galleria prominent artists and aspiring music talents over its Nazionale d’Arte Antica, in Rome on 4-8 June. five-day period. This was the fourth time that a young Hong Kong musician was selected for the Festival’s Young Artist Programme.
Italy has for the second time been chosen to be the Italy to be Partner partner country of Hong Kong’s Business of Design Week (BoDW) 2017, Asia’s leading annual event on design, Country of Business of innovation and brands organised by the Hong Kong Design Centre on 4-9 December 2017. This year’s motto Design Week 2017 will be “Italy makes a difference”. Italy was chosen as partner country for the first time in 2007.
Hong Kong News Summer 2017 27 Don’t miss these forthcoming events ! PLAY! HONG KONG COMICS TOURING EXHIBITION A special attraction at the Dragon Boat events this year 8th Brussels Comics Festival, BOZAR and Park of Brussels will be demonstrations by SLASH, a team from the Hong Friday 1 to Sunday 3 September 2017 Kong Rope Skipping Academy.
FASHION GALA CONCERT OF THE ASIAN YOUTH ORCHESTRA Tuesday 5 September 2017 at 20:00, at BOZAR in Brussels PARIS FASHION WEEK – HONG KONG FASHION GUERILLA CATWALK SHOW AND SHOWROOM EVENT To mark the 20th anniversary of the Hong Kong SAR, the 27 September 2017 Asian Youth Orchestra (AYO) will conclude its 2017 world tour with a special Gala Concert at the Centre for Fine Arts FILM EVENTS (BOZAR) in Brussels. AYO is a youth orchestra founded by Yehudi Menuhin and Richard Pontzious, composed SALENTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL of the finest musicians from several Asian countries. Tricase, 6-8 September 2017 Directed by Richard Pontzious, it will perform works by Richard Strauss (Don Juan), Sibelius (Violin concerto in LA CINÉMATHÈQUE FRANCAISE: HONG KONG, 20 FILMS, 20 YEARS D minor) and Beethoven (Symphony n°7). Distinguished Paris, 20 September - 11 October 2017 violinist Sarah Chang will be the soloist. SITGES INTERNATIONAL FANTASTIC FILM FESTIVAL For tickets, please see: 7-16 October 2017 www.bozar.be/en/activities/129971-gala-concert-of-asian-youth-orchestra LUMIÈRE 2017 - GRAND LYON FILM FESTIVAL DRAGON BOAT RACES Lyon, 14-22 October 2017
DUBLIN HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT REGATTA THESSALONIKI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: Saturday and Sunday 9-10 September 2017 at Grand HONG KONG FILM PANORAMA Canal Dock, Ringsend 2-12 November 2017
HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN ANTWERP CASA ASIA FILM WEEK Saturday 16 September 2017, at Kattendijkdok on het Barcelona, 5-13 November 2017 Eilandje Please see our website for more information www.hongkong-eu.org
News Summer 2017
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