HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKSAR Government Press Releaseshttp://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/today.htmhttp://www.info.gov.hk/gia/rss/rss_logo_en.gifHKSAR Government Press Releaseshttp://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/today.htmHKSAR Government - Press Releasesen-UKCopyright, HKSAR Governmentirc@isd.gov.hkFri, 15 Sep 2023 09:46:02 GMTTue, 12 Jul 2016 11:00:00 GMT<![CDATA[Resumption of bus service on Shek O Road]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/15/P2023091500111.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/15/P2023091500111.htmFri, 15 Sep 2023 06:14:00 +0800
     The TD reminded motorists to pay attention to traffic conditions and drive with care as one-lane-two-way traffic arrangement is being implemented at some sections of Shek O Road. ]]><![CDATA["Night Vibes Hong Kong" Campaign launched (with photos/video)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400558.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400558.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 22:43:24 +0800
     The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, officiated at the "Night Vibes Hong Kong" Campaign Launch Ceremony today to unveil a series of exciting activities.

     Speaking at the launch ceremony, Mr Chan said that although the society had resumed normal entering the third quarter, air services, tourist arrivals and domestic spending had yet been fully recovered. Besides, lifestyle habits of many people had changed following the global pandemic that lasted for three years, and that they might now go out less frequently in the evening.

     He said that the campaign led by the Government had united different sectors of the community to create a dynamic vibe for the city at night. Through a wealth of activities with different themes, including leisure, gourmet, music, culture and more, families, friends and co-workers could have more choices of night-time entertainment and gatherings to enjoy and relax.

     The "Night Vibes Hong Kong" Campaign will start from around the Mid-Autumn Festival later this month, running across National Day, Halloween, Christmas and New Year until early 2024. Taking place all over the city, these events cater for people from different age groups and sectors, and provide them with harbourfront leisure, festive and vibrant, art and culture, and diversified leisure experiences. Citizens and tourists can enjoy various discounts offered by different organisations.

     A series of events will take place on harbourfront sites, including performances, cultural events, markets and guided tours. The Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival will make its physical return to the Central Harbourfront Event Space in November, to provide international liquor assortments and delights, as well as emerging wine products to citizens and tourists. There will also be a month-long citywide dining promotion of restaurants and bars.

     A wealth of exciting activities will be held during the coming festivals, including the return of the National Day Fireworks Display after five years; the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance which will resume for the first time since the pandemic in the coming Mid-Autumn Festival; a stunning drone show to be held simultaneously in Hong Kong and Shenzhen; the Mid-Autumn Lantern Carnivals at Victoria Park which will display lanterns and also feature a bamboo stage for Cantonese opera performances; as well as youth group performances and acrobatic performances at venues in Sha Tin and Tuen Mun.

     Ocean Park Hong Kong and Hong Kong Disneyland will present time-limited Halloween events; the Hong Kong WinterFest in the West Kowloon Cultural District will set up a giant outdoor Christmas tree; the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will hold a New Year's Eve countdown event; dry goods stalls will resume at all Lunar New Year Fairs at the district level; and the Hong Kong Chinese New Year Night Parade will also resume on the evening of Lunar New Year's Day.

     Citizens and tourists can participate in cultural and art activities; cinemas will offer ticket discounts for night-time screenings; and the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum will extend opening hours until 10pm from Friday to Sunday and on public holidays. M+, the West Kowloon Cultural District will offer night tours and various art and cultural activities.

     To give a diversified leisure experience, over 80 shopping malls will organise various cultural and sports events and outdoor night markets, provide dining and consumption offers, and extend their opening hours in light of the night-time activities. More than 100 Lan Kwai Fong Association members' restaurants and bars will provide dining offers.

     The 57th Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo will have around 900 stalls; members of the public can enter the Public Enclosure of Happy Valley Racecourse every Wednesday night for free; and the MTR will launch "Nighttime Delights – Ride 5 Get 1 Free" to offer a domestic single ride for every five-night ride after 10.30pm. The HKTB will offer "Hong Kong Night Treats" dining vouchers for visitors, and Open-top Bus tours at a special price. They are also discussing with different stakeholders to explore ways to enhance the atmosphere of the Temple Street night market, with a view to increasing its attractiveness through new elements.

     Latest information on events is available from the dedicated website (www.nightvibeshk.gov.hk).

]]><![CDATA[Shek O Road reopened around 9pm today]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400702.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400702.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 22:00:09 +0800
     "After emergency repairs carried out by the Highways Department and the Civil Engineering and Development Department, one lane of the Shek O Road is reopened to light vehicles, including red minibuses. As some sections of the road are being converted into one-lane-two-way traffic, motorists are advised to pay careful attention to traffic directions at the scene," the Transport Department (TD) said.

     The Highways Department will continue with the emergency repair works. After confirming the safety of the road, the TD will endeavour to allow all vehicles, including Citybus route No. 9 (Shau Kei Wan - Shek O) with deployment of single-deck buses to pass through the road section concerned at 6am tomorrow (September 15), so that residents can get in and out of Shek O.]]><![CDATA[Transcript of remarks by FS, DFS, SCST, SDEV and S for Housing at media session after "Night Vibes Hong Kong" Campaign Launch Ceremony (with photo/video)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400697.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400697.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 21:56:00 +0800
Reporter: So for the Wan Chai, Kwun Tong and Belcher Bay bazaars, some industry insiders have reported to book a slot to perform, it can cost up to $20,000 an hour. Is that too expensive? Would you provide some subsidies to them? And my second question is, if you look at the list for tonight, a lot of the events such as Wine and Dine Festival and the fireworks, they have been going on for many years, and they don't seem to be exclusively for this event. Even the theme park events were announced a few months ago. Is there a lack of events exclusively for Night Vibes?

Financial Secretary: On the rental costs, actually, what you have quoted may not be correct. So if I may, I would defer the question later to the Secretary for Development to give you a more detailed explanation. As to the events that you quote, say for example, the Wine and Dine Festival, our thinking is that if the events are welcomed by the people with good impact, and become popular, there is no point to avoid them; but rather, we should inject new energy and vibrancy into them, making them more interesting, attractive, and available to more members of the public, thus creating new experiences.

     Perhaps what we need to do is to continue to innovate and reinvent ourselves, no matter it is new events or old events. At the same time, when you look at the list of activities, there are indeed new events to be staged.

Secretary for Development: For the three events to be run in our harbourfront sites, namely in Wan Chai, the Belcher Bay Promenade and also in Kwun Tong, actually they will be co-orgainsed by the Development Bureau and non-government organisations. And we will not be charging the non-government organisations any rent for the use of the space. So accordingly, if these organisations want to bring in store operators for selling, for example, some food or small souvenirs, they do not have to and they cannot charge any rental for those store operators. And as regards those performers, for example, those doing the busking or some dance performances, they will be sponsored because the co-orgainsers will be trying to seek sponsorship from commercial organisations. So basically, those store operators will not be charged any rent for the use of the space.

Reporter: For the Financial Secretary, there are reports that Brent Neiman, an Assistant US Treasury Secretary, travelled to Hong Kong yesterday. Have you met with him? And for your upcoming trip to France and the UK, are you planning to meet with any UK officials?

Financial Secretary: I haven't met with him. I understand that some of my colleagues in the Government will meet with him. As to my coming trip to Europe, I'm going to Paris, London and then Berlin and Frankfurt. The main purpose of the visit is to showcase Hong Kong's new competitive advantages and opportunities, and to meet with the business communities there, and to answer any questions that they may have. That is the plan for the moment. Thank you.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

]]><![CDATA[LCSD to actively echo Night Vibes Hong Kong campaign]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400290.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400290.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 21:05:13 +0800
The Mid-Autumn lantern carnival will be held from tomorrow (September 15) to October 8 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza to display the interactive lighting installation "The Moon Machine". The carnival will be extended to Victoria Park, Sha Tin Park and Tuen Mun Park from September 23 to October 2 to display lanterns of different themes. Members of the public can also appreciate a vast range of intangible cultural heritage, watch traditional handicraft demonstrations, try lantern riddles, and enjoy music and dance performances.

The Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA), the Hong Kong Science Museum (HKScM) and the Hong Kong Space Museum (HKSpM), starting from September 29 to November 26, will run a trial to extend their opening hours to 10pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Members of the public are welcome to visit. During the extended openings, the three museums will offer special programmes on Saturday evenings as follows:

The HKMoA, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Film Archive, will present "Movie Date at the Museum". Visitors can enjoy a romantic night at the museum by watching classic local romantic movies and exploring the "Love Letters: Everlasting Sentiments from the Xubaizhai Collection" exhibition.

The HKScM will hold a "Science Fun Night". Through different booths and games, the public can make interesting crafts or try different science experiments to enjoy science.

The HKSpM will turn into a "Starry Wonderland" on those evenings. Participants can enjoy the night sky with astronomical telescopes at the rooftop and enhance their understanding of astronomy through games at the exhibition halls. Additionally, the Space Theatre will feature an extra show during each extended opening night.

For details, please visit the websites of the respective museums.

Furthermore, to facilitate the Police implementation of the special crowd management measures in Tsim Sha Tsui promenade area for the National Day fireworks display on October 1, both the HKMoA and the HKSpM will close at 6pm on that day.]]><![CDATA[DEP chairs Technology Discussion Forum on Water Quality Management and Pollution Control under Belt and Road Initiative (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400585.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400585.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 20:00:00 +0800
     Representatives from the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the Chairman and representatives of the Central Environmental Authority of the Government of Sri Lanka were invited to join the forum, which was held by the EPD with a view to further enhancing the development of water quality management, water pollution control and smart enforcement in countries including Sri Lanka.

     At the forum, Dr Chui shared Hong Kong's successful experience as a coastal city in using seawater toilet flushing, sewage treatment and submarine outfall discharges. EPD officers participating in the forum also introduced the practices of water pollution control, environmental impact assessment, water quality monitoring and modelling, as well as sewage surveillance for COVID-19 in Hong Kong. Colleagues from the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences gave a briefing on their co-operation with Sri Lanka on the protection of water environment and the sewage treatment strategies in rural areas in Mainland China, while the Sri Lanka attendants introduced the current water management in their country.

     Dr Chui said the EPD would continue to proactively connect with B&R regions and leverage Hong Kong's experience and advantage in environmental protection to assist B&R regions in jointly achieving green and sustainable development.

     On the eighth Belt and Road Summit held yesterday (September 13), a co-operation agreement was signed between the Environment and Ecology Bureau and the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The EPD also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Central Environmental Authority of the Government of Sri Lanka. Today's forum is part of an exchange programme held under the two co-operation frameworks. The programme also included visits to the EPD's sewage sludge treatment facility T·PARK, Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works of the Drainage Services Department and Wan Chai No. 2 Seawater Pumping Station of the Water Supplies Department on September 12.

]]><![CDATA[System enhancement for Specified Dates Booking System under "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" to be held tomorrow and this Sunday]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400612.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400612.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 19:38:00 +0800
     Currently, applicants may reserve one of the six designated timeslots for travelling via the Specified Dates Booking System after obtaining an electronic vehicle licence from the Mainland authorities and a Closed Road Permit (CRP) from the TD.

     Starting from October 1, the number of designated timeslots will be adjusted from six to four to facilitate eligible applicants' travelling. Please refer to the Annex for details. The Specified Dates Booking System will release the travelling timeslots in October for applicants' reservations starting from 1am on September 15.

     The TD reminds applicants that if a vehicle issued with a CRP for "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" travelling to Guangdong Province via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) outside the reserved/assigned specified date and time, the law enforcement authorities of the Mainland and Hong Kong may refuse its entry to Guangdong Province via the HZMB.

     The TD may also deprive them from reserving a specified date and time through the Specified Dates Booking System or revoke the CRP.

     The TD, together with other relevant departments, will continue to closely monitor the implementation of "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles", and will review and adjust the relevant arrangements according to the actual situation and announce the details in a timely manner.]]><![CDATA[Vice Minister of Commerce visits Hong Kong Customs (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400577.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400577.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 19:15:00 +0800
     During the visit, Mr Lai introduced to the delegation about Hong Kong Customs' efforts in facilitating the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative, including the development of an intermodal operation which expedites the efficiency of customs clearance for cross-boundary shipments, and the promotion of mutual recognition of the Hong Kong Authorized Economic Operators in the Belt and Road countries and regions, helping Hong Kong enterprises to "go global" and upholding Hong Kong's status as an international maritime and trade centre.

]]><![CDATA[Hong Kong Customs signs AEO Mutual Recognition Arrangement Action Plan with Macao Customs (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400539.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400539.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 19:07:00 +0800
The signing of the AEO Action Plan is an important milestone for the coming implementation of the MRA which indicates the strengthened collaboration between both Customs administrations in the international supply chain security co-operation, sustainable development in trade facilitation, and promotion of the economic development in the Greater Bay Area.

Mr Hui, together with a Hong Kong Customs delegation, also visited a Macao AEO company this afternoon to understand the standards of accreditation under the Macao AEO Programme.

]]><![CDATA[CHP investigates confirmed Mpox case]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400584.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400584.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 19:00:00 +0800
     The case involves a 41-year-old male patient with an underlying illness. He had presented with a fever, chills, headache and myalgia since September 6. He later developed a localised skin ulcer since September 9, and visited the Kowloon Bay Integrated Treatment Centre of the DH. He is in stable condition and arrangements were made for him to be admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital. According to the patient, he had high-risk exposure in Hong Kong during the incubation period.

     An initial investigation revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period. No epidemiological linkages between this case and other confirmed cases recorded in Hong Kong earlier have been found so far. The CHP is continuing its epidemiological investigations of the case. The CHP will report the case to the World Health Organization.

     A total of 45 confirmed Mpox cases have been recorded in Hong Kong so far. The CHP appeals again to high-risk target groups to receive Mpox vaccination with a view to lowering the risk of infection or the possibility of having more severe symptoms after infection. Persons who experience Mpox symptoms (including rashes, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle pain, and severe headaches) or suspect themselves of being infected are advised to seek medical attention and receive treatment at once, and they should not engage in activities with others during which other people may have contact with their skin rash or body fluids. Members of the public should maintain good personal and hand hygiene to prevent virus transmission or infection through contact. They should also avoid close physical contact with persons or animals suspected of infection.

     The CHP had earlier set up an Mpox telephone hotline (2125 2373). The hotline operates from Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) from 9am to 5pm, which enables those who suspect or are concerned they have had high-risk contact with confirmed patients, in particular men who have sex with men or those who have sexual practices with strangers, to make enquiries and receive relevant health advice.

     The Government has activated the Alert level of the preparedness and response plan for the disease in September last year and will continue to assess the risk in view of the latest scientific evidence and situation, and implement corresponding control measures.

     The Mpox vaccination programme for high-risk groups commenced on October 5 last year. Under the programme, the following high-risk target groups can receive Mpox vaccination on a voluntary basis:

Individuals with high-risk sexual practices, e.g. having multiple sexual partners, sex workers, or having a history of sexually transmitted infection within the past 12 months;
Healthcare workers responsible for caring of patients with confirmed Mpox;
Laboratory personnel working with zoonotic pox viruses; and
Animal care personnel with high risk of exposure in case of Mpox occurrence in animals in Hong Kong.

     High-risk target groups can receive Mpox vaccination at the designated Mpox vaccination centre (situated at 2/F, CHP building, 147C Argyle Street, Mong Kok) by appointment through email (mpv_booking@dh.gov.hk) or telephone booking line (2547 1900) during office hours. They can also receive Mpox walk-in vaccinations at all of the DH's Social Hygiene Service Clinics (SocHS) (namely Chai Wan SocHS, Wan Chai Male SocHS, Wan Chai Female SocHS, Yau Ma Tei Male SocHS, Yau Ma Tei Female SocHS, Yung Fung Shee SocHS, Fanling SocHS and Tuen Mun SocHS). Further information of the clinics including their locations is available at www.dh.gov.hk/english/tele/tele_chc/tele_chc_shcf.html and www.dh.gov.hk/english/tele/tele_chc/tele_chc_shcm.html.

     Meanwhile, the DH's Integrated Treatment Centre in Kowloon Bay, and the Hospital Authority's Special Medical Clinics at Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Princess Margaret Hospital will continue to provide Mpox vaccination services for their clients.

     For more details, please visit the CHP's page on Mpox.]]><![CDATA[Hong Kong's robust financial ecosystem contributes to Belt and Road Initiative (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400433.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400433.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 18:35:00 +0800
Delivering his opening remarks at the thematic session "Hong Kong: Capital Raising Hub for ASEAN, Middle East and Beyond" of the first Finance Chapter of the Belt and Road Summit today, Mr Hui illustrated Hong Kong's strengths in infrastructure financing. "As infrastructure development gains momentum within the Belt and Road region, enterprises can turn to Hong Kong for diverse avenues of capital raising and financing. Hong Kong, renowned as Asia's leading bond market, offers a range of options such as initial public offerings, post-listing arrangements, bond issuance, and bank loans," he noted.

According to the International Capital Market Association, in terms of bonds issued internationally by Asia-based entities, the volume arranged by Hong Kong ranked first globally for seven consecutive years since 2016, exceeding US$100 billion and capturing 30 per cent of the market in 2022.

Mr Hui added that Hong Kong, as a premier asset and wealth management centre, is endeavouring to attract corporations in the Belt and Road countries and regions to set up corporate treasury centres, by making effort in diversification of fund structure. This includes the Open-ended Fund Company and Limited Partnership Fund regimes, and provision of re-domiciliation mechanism for foreign funds to migrate to Hong Kong.

On the pivotal role of Middle East and Association of Southeast Asian Nations within the Belt and Road Initiative, Mr Hui said the regions present numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth. He noted that Hong Kong stands ready to provide one-stop solutions with its world-class financial infrastructure and professional services for countries and regions along the Belt and Road to attract international capital to support project developments.

Mr Hui also cited the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was signed yesterday between Hong Kong, China and the Emirate of Dubai, which reaffirms the commitment of the two places on strengthening the broader relationship and co-operation, and facilitates the mutual sustainable development of the financial services industries. The MOU will help facilitate policy communication, knowledge exchange and identification of co-operation opportunities in the key areas of financial services industry between the two places, including but not limited to family offices, fintech, virtual asset, green and sustainable finance.

In the Belt and Road Summit yesterday (September 13), Mr Hui chaired the "Policy Dialogue: Tapping into the Potential of the Middle East", during which the speakers shared their insights into the factors driving the region's rise as international hubs, and how the world can harness the Middle East's potential. Speakers of the panel were the Advisor in the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, Saudi Arabia, Mr Fahd bin Abdulmohsan Al-Rasheed; the Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates, Mr Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri; and the Minister, Ministry of International Cooperation, Egypt, Dr Rania A Al-Mashat.

On the sidelines of the Summit yesterday, Mr Hui met with the Chief Executive Officer of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones of Egypt, Mr Hossam Heiba. They discussed the co-operation potential and the opportunities brought about by the Belt and Road Initiative during the meeting.

]]><![CDATA[Hong Kong Science Museum Palaeontology Gallery's "Extinction · Resilience" exhibition showcases precious animal and plant fossils (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400313.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400313.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 18:32:00 +0800
     Addressing the opening ceremony today (September 14), the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, said that the "Extinction·Resilience" exhibition is one of the permanent gallery's renewal projects of the Hong Kong Science Museum. It is hoped that members of the public can learn more about the history and changes in the Earth's life and ecology over the eons, as well as reflect on the imminent challenges brought to the survival of life by recent anthropogenic developments. He added that museums are crucial to the cultural development of Hong Kong. Not only can museums bring knowledge to members of the public, but also attract tourists to visit Hong Kong. The Policy Address last year recommended the building of four new museums. The Government will base its findings on overseas' experiences and Hong Kong's need to review the future direction of museum development.

     The exhibition is divided into six zones to introduce five major mass extinction events that occurred in the Earth's long geological history. The exhibition features over 100 sets of precious animal and plant fossils of different periods. Valuable exhibits include a woolly mammoth fossil more than 3 metres tall from the Quaternary ice ages; the most complete Deinonychus fossil to date; 1:1 fossil replicas of prehistoric marine predator fish species Xiphactinus, Megalodon and Dunkleosteus; and fossilised Dryobalanoxylon wood specimens that were formed in Indonesia 2 to 4 million years ago. The exhibition also showcases lifelike robotic dinosaurs and interesting interactive exhibits featuring knowledge on fossil excavation, prehistoric environment and the evolution of life, etc. It holds an open ending with the depiction of an ongoing risk of the sixth mass extinction that calls for human efforts to boost wildlife conservation and environmental protection.

     Other officiating guests today included the Chief Business Impact Officer of Chinachem Group, Ms Sylvia Chung; the Director of Vegasoul Capital Management (Asia) Limited, Dr Run Run Wong; the Chairman of the Museum Advisory Committee, Professor Douglas So; Museum Expert Adviser of the Hong Kong Science Museum Professor Chan Lung-sang; the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Mr Vincent Liu; and the Museum Director of the Hong Kong Science Museum, Mr Lawrence Lee.

     The exhibition is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, organised by the Hong Kong Science Museum, and supported by the National Natural History Museum of China, the Nina Park of Chinachem Group and Vegasoul Capital Management (Asia) Limited. The Hong Kong Science Museum is located at 2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East. For details of the exhibition and its admission fee arrangements, please visit hk.science.museum/en/web/scm/exhibition/pg.html, or call 2732 3232 for enquiries.

]]><![CDATA[CE meets Secretary-General of ASEAN and senior government officials from Belt and Road countries attending eighth Belt and Road Summit (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400520.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400520.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 18:30:36 +0800
     The Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong; and the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, also attended the meetings.

Yesterday at the meeting with the Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr Arman Shakkaliyev, Mr Lee said that Kazakhstan is one of Hong Kong's most important trading partners in Central Asia. He encouraged more Kazakhstani enterprises to partner with Hong Kong enterprises and make use of Hong Kong's advantages to venture into the Mainland and other markets.

     Afterwards, Mr Lee met with the Advisor in the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia, Mr Fahd bin Abdulmohsan Al-Rasheed. Noting that the formal negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia have commenced since his visit to the Saudi Arabia in February, Mr Lee expressed his hope for the early completion of the relevant work such that the economic and trade co-operation between the two places would scale new heights.

     Mr Lee then met with the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Kao Kim Hourn. Mr Lee said he was pleased to see Dr Kao again after his visit to Jakarta, Indonesia, in July. He expressed his gratitude to Dr Kao for his continuous support for Hong Kong's accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will maintain close communication with the ASEAN Secretariat on relevant issues.

     Mr Lee also met with the Minister of International Cooperation of Egypt, Dr Rania A Al-Mashat. He said that with Hong Kong's advantages as a professional services and fund-raising platform, the city can contribute to Belt and Road projects in Egypt, including the Central Business District project in the new administrative capital of Egypt. He also looks forward to strengthening co-operation between the two places in order to explore more new opportunities.

     Meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Mr Péter Szijjártó, Mr Lee said that Hungary is Hong Kong's seventh largest trading partner among the European Union member states, with bilateral merchandise trade between Hong Kong and Hungary amounting to HK$17.8 billion last year. The HKSAR Government will continue to promote Hong Kong's advantages and opportunities to more Hungarian enterprises.

     Last evening, Mr Lee hosted a networking dinner at Government House to exchange views with guests on promoting the Belt and Road Initiative. Guests included representatives of political, business and professional sectors of Hong Kong, Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the HKSAR Mr Fang Jianming, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, senior government officials from Belt and Road countries who came to Hong Kong to attend the summit, and Consuls-General and Honorary Consuls of various countries in Hong Kong.

     This morning, Mr Lee met with the Minister of Planning and Investment of Vietnam, Mr Nguyen Chi Dung. He thanked Vietnam for its continued support for Hong Kong's accession request to the RCEP. Mr Lee pointed out that Vietnam is Hong Kong's seventh largest trading partner and the economy of Vietnam has grown significantly in recent years. He encouraged more enterprises in Vietnam to co-operate with their counterparts in Hong Kong and make good use of Hong Kong's advantages as the most open international city in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to explore the immense investment opportunities on the Mainland.

     In the afternoon, Mr Lee met with the Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mr Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri. Mr Lee noted that the UAE is Hong Kong's largest trading partner in the Middle East and he believed that there is much room for forging economic and trade ties between the two places. He also expressed his hope that more enterprises in the UAE will capitalise on Hong Kong's distinctive advantages under "one country, two systems" and its world-class infrastructures and professional talent to seize the opportunities brought about by the Belt and Road Initiative and the GBA development.

     Mr Lee said, "The two-day eighth Belt and Road Summit concluded with success and fruitful achievements. I am grateful to all the participants for their strong support for the Summit. The Summit is an important international business platform to promote Belt and Road co-operation. Hong Kong will continue to leverage its distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, proactively integrate into national development, and consolidate and develop its status as an international city, with the view to continuously contributing to the promotion of the development of the Belt and Road Initiative."

]]><![CDATA[Secretary for Health attends 5th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Conference on Inheritance, Innovation and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Foshan (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400544.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400544.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 18:05:00 +0800
Professor Lo said, "The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is most grateful for the nation's support and guidance for the development of CM in Hong Kong. We will continue to give full play to the characteristics of CM in Hong Kong as well as our strengths in the service system, regulatory framework and standard-setting so as to foster Hong Kong's engagement to a greater extent in the construction of CM highlands in the GBA, thereby being an effective gateway for the nation to connect with the world and making contributions to the national development of CM.

     "CM plays an integral part in Hong Kong's healthcare system. The HKSAR Government is committed to promoting the high-quality development of CM all round. Among all, significant achievements have been made in aspects such as construction of the two flagship institutes, namely the very first Chinese Medicine Hospital in Hong Kong and the Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute, strengthening of the talent pool of CM professionals, establishment of a comprehensive CM service network, fostering scientific research and standard-setting for CM testing as well as optimisation of the policy framework and top-tier design."

     At the Conference, Professor Lo witnessed the signing of agreements on multiple GBA CM co-operation projects including that on the establishment of a collaboration framework for GBA CM Visiting Scholars Programme among the Hospital Authority (HA), Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Affiliated Hospital of the Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, with a view to enhancing clinical professional exchanges and pushing ahead the development of integrated Chinese-Western medicine treatment services. Representatives of the HA and the Department of Health participated in the keynote session and roundtable discussion respectively to share with the participants Hong Kong's progress and achievements in developing high-quality CM services and industry.

In the afternoon, Professor Lo and his delegation attended the seminar convened by the Party Group Member of the National Health Commission cum Party Secretary and Commissioner of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (NATCM), Professor Yu Yanhong, on the co-operation mechanism of the construction of CM highlands in the GBA. At the seminar, relevant government officials and institution representatives in the GBA exchanged views on the establishment of a standing collaboration mechanism and co-operation platform, so as to take forward the work of the construction of CM highlands in the GBA.

Professor Lo said, "My heartfelt gratitude goes to the relevant Mainland ministries/authorities and institutions for their staunch support for the CM development in Hong Kong and implementation of an array of policy initiatives which are favourable to Hong Kong, such as recruiting Hong Kong's CM practitioners to practise in GBA public healthcare institutions and streamlining the vetting and approval procedures for the registration of Hong Kong-registered traditional proprietary Chinese medicines for external use on the Mainland. The CM schools and research institutions in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao have also been actively promoting numerous projects on the nurturing of CM talent as well as research and innovation to encourage CM academic exchanges and inheritance.

     "Under the leadership of the NATCM, the co-operation mechanism of the construction of CM highlands in the GBA will further reinforce the collaboration amongst the governments and institutions in the three places on aspects such as information sharing, liaison and exploration as well as experience sharing, thereby giving an impetus to CM inheritance and innovation as well as driving CM to go global. Looking ahead, Hong Kong will embrace more opportunities in CM development. The HKSAR Government will pursue exchanges and co-operation with Guangdong and Macao further for the construction of CM highlands in the GBA and integration into the national development of 'Healthy China' through concerted efforts."

     Co-organised by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Bureau of Guangdong Province, the Health Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HHB), the Health Bureau of the Macao Special Administrative Region Government and the People's Government of Foshan Municipality, the conference this year aims to promote in-depth integration and development of CM in the GBA as well as full implementation of the Construction Plan for the Chinese Medicine Highlands in the GBA (2020-2025). Officials from the NATCM, relevant ministries/authorities in the GBA, as well as representatives of CM services, education and industry engaged in thorough exchanges and discussion under the theme of "High-quality Development of CM in the New Era" to strengthen multilateral co-operation.

Members of the Hong Kong delegation include the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam; the Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko; the Acting Project Director of the Chinese Medicine Hospital Project Office of the HHB, Ms Virginia Leung; the Acting Commissioner for Chinese Medicine Development of the HHB, Mr Dominic Ho; the Assistant Director of Health (Chinese Medicine), Dr Edmund Fong; and the Chief Manager (Chinese Medicine) of the HA, Ms Rowena Wong.

]]><![CDATA[Shek O Road expected to reopen around 9pm today]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400542.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400542.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 17:50:00 +0800
     "After emergency repairs carried out by the Highways Department and the Civil Engineering and Development Department, one lane of the Shek O Road can be reopened to light vehicles, including red minibuses, at about 9pm today. As some sections of the road are being converted into one-lane-two-way traffic, motorists are advised to pay careful attention to traffic directions at the scene," the Transport Department (TD) said.

     The Highways Department will continue with the emergency repair works. After confirming the safety of the road, the TD will endeavour to allow all vehicles, including Citybus route No. 9 (Shau Kei Wan - Shek O) with deployment of single-deck buses to pass through the road section concerned at 6am tomorrow (September 15), so that residents can get in and out of Shek O.
]]><![CDATA[Over 1 500 teachers commended at Teachers' Day ceremony (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400259.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400259.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 17:45:00 +0800
     Organised by the Committee on Respect Our Teachers Campaign (CROTC), the Salute to Teachers 2023 - Teachers' Day and Commendation Certificate Presentation Ceremony was held today (September 14). The Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, officiated at the ceremony and paid tribute to more than 1 500 teachers, the second-highest number on record, for their dedication to the teaching profession this year.

     The Chairman of the CROTC, Mr So Ping-fai, expressed appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of the teachers. They combined face-to-face and online teaching, and organised extra-curricular activities, during the epidemic to cater for students' learning and developmental needs. He also thanked the Central Government and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government for showing love and care to the youth. He said he is confident that the HKSAR Government and the education sector will jointly enhance the education system and lay a solid foundation for the next generation so that they will be proud of their identity and have a global outlook.

     Dr Choi expressed gratitude to all the teachers for nurturing talents selflessly with dedication. She said that a good teacher not only possesses professional teaching competencies and commitment to nurturing students, but also aspiration and beliefs, high moral standards and noble virtues, extensive knowledge and benevolence. They should strive for continuous self-advancement to enhance professional capacity such that students could be nurtured with correct moral values. Recently, President Xi Jinping gave a reply letter to Hong Kong students, especially encouraging students to "strengthen their affection for and sense of belonging to the country and sharpen their skills and abilities". Whether the younger generation could make contributions to building an even better Hong Kong and advancing national rejuvenation would hinge on teachers' support and guidance to lay a solid foundation for students' learning.

     Dr Choi stressed that the Education Bureau is committed to supporting the professional development of teachers by providing systematic training for all teachers, enhancing the training requirements for promotion of teachers, and supporting teachers in enhancing professionalism and capability to address the needs of different duties at different positions. Various opportunities for overseas exchange, Mainland study tours and field visits are also arranged for teachers to gain first-hand understanding of the country and its latest development, and broaden their horizons. She said she hopes that teachers will seize the opportunity to actively participate in professional development programmes and strive for excellence in their professional journey.

     Organised by the CROTC in its 28th year, the Teachers' Commendation Scheme aims to foster a culture of respect for teachers. Secondary schools, primary schools, kindergartens and special schools may each nominate two teachers who have shown commitment and excellence in teaching. Over 36 000 teachers have been commended.

     Other officiating guests at the ceremony today included the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Michelle Li; the Chairman of the Education Commission, Dr David Wong; and the Chairperson of the Committee on Professional Development of Teachers and Principals, Professor Alvin Leung. A total of around 1 500 people, comprising principals, teachers and other guests, participated in the event.

]]><![CDATA[Hong Kong Customs special operation seizes suspected illicit cigarettes for export worth about $10 million (with photo)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400537.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400537.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 17:40:00 +0800
     In the first case, through intelligence analysis, Customs officers on September 7 inspected an outbound cargo consignment at a logistics site in Yuen Long and seized about 1.4 million suspected illicit cigarettes.

     Customs on September 12 detected the remaining four cases at a logistics site in Kwai Chung. Customs officers on that day inspected four batches of outbound cargo consignments there and seized a total of about 1.3 million suspected illicit cigarettes.

     After preliminary investigations, Customs believes that the suspected illicit cigarettes seized in the above five cases would be exported to Australia.

     An investigation is ongoing.

     Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

     Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

     Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

]]><![CDATA[CHP investigates case of severe paediatric influenza A infection]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400515.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400515.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 17:30:00 +0800
     The case involves a 3-year-old boy with good past health. He has presented with a fever and cough since September 11, and attended North District Hospital today due to worsening symptoms. He was transferred to Prince of Wales Hospital for further management on the same day. His respiratory specimen was positive for influenza A (H3) virus upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with pneumonia. He is now in serious condition and is still being hospitalised.

     Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had not received seasonal influenza vaccination for this season and visited Shenzhen during the incubation period. His home contacts are currently asymptomatic. The CHP's investigations are ongoing.

     A spokesman for the CHP stated that the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza and other respiratory illnesses and note the following:

Surgical masks can prevent transmission of respiratory viruses from ill persons. It is essential for persons who are symptomatic (even if having mild symptoms) to wear a surgical mask;
For high-risk persons (e.g. persons with underlying medical conditions or persons who are immunocompromised), wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. It is important to wear a mask properly, including performing hand hygiene before wearing and after removing a mask;
Avoid touching one's eyes, mouth and nose;
Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
Cover the mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly into a lidded rubbish bin and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
Maintain good indoor ventilation;
When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, refrain from work or attending classes at school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly; and
Maintain a balanced diet, perform physical activity regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

The public may visit the CHP's influenza page and weekly COVID-19 & Flu Express for more information.]]><![CDATA[Green I&T Day 2023 promotes innovation and technology solutions to achieve carbon neutrality targets (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400504.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400504.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 17:12:00 +0800
The Green I&T Day 2023 included various seminars where experts from Hong Kong and the Mainland shared their experience in adopting I&T to reduce carbon emissions, under the themes of "green transformation" and "journey to carbon neutrality". The event also brought together 15 local and Mainland exhibitors to showcase their I&T achievements in energy conservation and new and renewable energy.

At the event, the EMSD signed the "Memorandum of Co-operation on Green Intelligent Technology and Artificial Intelligence Standards for Electrical and Mechanical Systems of Buildings" with the Guangdong Provincial Academy of Building Research Group Co., Ltd. and the Guangdong Province Construction Technology and Standardization Association to facilitate research and preparation of technical guidelines, deepen application of artificial intelligence and develop green intelligent and digitalisation technologies among the three signing parties.

Delivering a video speech at the opening ceremony, the Secretary for the Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, said that to follow the country's directive of the "dual carbon" target, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is striving to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050 and pursuing to reduce Hong Kong's carbon emissions by 50 per cent before 2035 as compared to the 2005 level. He stated that the event not only showcased the achievements of green I&T technologies in the GBA, but also provided a high-level exchange platform for green and low-carbon development.

Mr Pang expressed that the event deepened the exchange of knowledge and experience in green I&T, contributing to building a more liveable and sustainable GBA.

]]><![CDATA[Hong Kong and Egypt sign MOU on investment promotion co-operation (with photo)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400446.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400446.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0800
     The MOU was signed by the Acting Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, Dr Jimmy Chiang, and the Chief Executive Director of GAFI, Mr Hossam Heiba, aiming to enhance the close relationship for the mutual benefit of Hong Kong and Egypt, and their co-operation with each other in promoting both inward and outward investments in the two places.

     The MOU focuses on sharing information on the business environment, investment opportunities of the two places and technical experiences in the field of attracting foreign investments as well as encouraging interested local companies in setting up or expanding their businesses within the area of the other jurisdiction. It also supports and facilitates each other's incoming business missions and investment promotion events that foster bilateral investment between the two places.

     Dr Chiang said, "The MOU marks a new milestone between Hong Kong and Egypt in terms of mutual investment promotion exchanges. As a strategic international hub of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative, Hong Kong offers an efficient, reliable business platform bringing the Mainland and the rest of the world together. By leveraging Hong Kong's global status, companies from Egypt and those from the Mainland can strengthen their business foothold in each other's jurisdictions, tapping into the growing business opportunities on the Mainland and across the Asia-Pacific region."

     Mr Heiba said, "The GAFI has signed an MOU with its counterpart InvestHK to encourage bilateral economic co-operation between Egypt and Hong Kong and to encourage bilateral investments from both sides, and work on enhancing mutual visits for business delegations to explore the investment opportunities in Egypt and Hong Kong. The two parties are looking forward to further co-operation between the Arab Republic of Egypt and Hong Kong.

     For a photo, please visit: www.flickr.com/photos/investhk/albums/72177720311194529.

]]><![CDATA[Preparation work for Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Meteorological Monitoring and Warning Center in Hong Kong commences (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400456.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400456.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:55:00 +0800
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Administrator of the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), Dr Chen Zhenlin; the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan; the Director of the Guangdong Meteorological Service, Mr Zhuang Xudong; the Director of the Macao Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau, Mr Leong Weng-kun; and the Director of the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO), Dr Chan Pak-wai, officiated at the commissioning launch ceremony of the Hong Kong Center at the HKO this afternoon.

Officiating at the ceremony, Mr Chan said that the development of the GBA is a key national strategy that covers various key areas of positioning, such as a globally influential international innovation and technology hub and a showcase for in-depth co-operation between the Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao. The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is planning to establish in Hong Kong a supersite for GBA air quality laboratory and meteorology monitoring where the Hong Kong Center is located and in proximity with the Northern Metropolis. This will help attract excellent meteorological talent to the GBA and further promote scientific research co-operation, making new contributions towards the meteorological development of the GBA.

Dr Chen said that the CMA attaches great importance to the meteorological development of the GBA. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Meteorological Monitoring and Warning Center is a key item to be jointly developed by and built in the three locations, and an important measure in implementing the national development strategy for the GBA, signifying a new stage of meteorological co-operation among the three places. The establishment of the Hong Kong Center is not only beneficial to enhancing disaster prevention and mitigation capability of Hong Kong itself, but also promotes and benefits the close collaboration and mutual development of the three places, providing strong weather service assurance to the GBA in creating an international first-class bay area and a world-class city cluster.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Meteorological Monitoring and Warning Center is a work item for the joint establishment by the three places under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao GBA Meteorological Development Plan (2020-2035) (see Note) as promulgated by the CMA, which aims to enhance detailed meteorological monitoring, forecasting and warning services for the GBA through meteorological data sharing, meteorological scientific research and innovation, career development of meteorological talent, etc.

Celebrating the 140th anniversary of the HKO, Dr Chan took the opportunity to present to the officiating guests "Stories under passing storms", a collection of essays commemorating the history of the HKO spanning over a century.

The introduction video of the Hong Kong Center can be viewed at the following link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=W96zwiML7EI (Chinese only).

Note: The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Meteorological Development Plan (2020-2035) is among the first specialised development plans under the national Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Outline Development Plan.

]]><![CDATA[Speech by DSJ at HCCH Asia Pacific Week 2023 (English only) (with photo)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400455.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400455.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:47:00 +0800
Dr Goh Escolar (Deputy Secretary General of the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH), Dr Gérardine Goh Escolar), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

I am very glad to have you with us and that the Asia Pacific Week 2023 ends on a high note today. I would like to express my appreciation to the Permanent Bureau of the HCCH for hosting this meaningful and impactful event in Hong Kong. I wish also to thank the HCCH Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, as well as the Faculty of Law of the University of Hong Kong, for their contribution and support. My gratitude goes to all the speakers for their insightful presentations and comments, and to all our audience for your active participation.

I recall the reception hosted by China in March this year for the distinguished delegates who attended the HCCH Council on General Affairs and Policy meeting in The Hague. On that occasion, I extended our warm invitation to all the prominent guests to come to Hong Kong in person for the sixth HCCH Asia Pacific Week in celebration of the 130th anniversary of the HCCH, as supported by the Department of Justice of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). I am glad to see some familiar faces and know that you have accepted the invitation to come to Hong Kong.

At the reception in March, I also briefly introduced to you about Hong Kong as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region and now, you have come to witness the unique strength of Hong Kong by yourselves. Under the principle of "one country, two systems", Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China and our bilingual common law system has a strong heritage and is reputable in the global community. It is in touch with the developments and changing needs of the contemporary world. Our courts exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference. And the rule of law tradition is also firmly enshrined under the Basic Law.

The focus of this year's Asia Pacific Week is on three core values in our modern-day legal landscape: access to justice, sustainable development, and inter-connectedness. This is perfectly in line with the Belt and Road (B&R) Initiative launched 10 years ago. As a significant development strategy, the B&R Initiative aims at promoting co-operation and enhancing inter-connectedness among countries and regions along the B&R routes, which at the same time facilitates access to justice and sustainable developments. To celebrate this 10-year milestone, the HKSAR Government is in tandem organising a two-day Belt and Road Summit officially launched yesterday, and we are honoured to have Dr Bernasconi, the Secretary-General of the HCCH, sharing his invaluable insights on how the Hague instruments could promote trade and investment in the B&R region through the progressive unification of private international law rules. We are grateful for the Secretary-General's support and participation, in-person, in all these events in Hong Kong including, of course, this Asia Pacific Week. It testifies the long-standing partnership between Hong Kong and the HCCH, made possible by the support of our Central Government, in various global and regional legal initiatives, and shows the many possibilities of co-operation in alignment with the B&R Initiative.

In the context of the diverse legal systems of the B&R countries, we stand ready to make contributions to the harmonisation of private international law rules for better co-ordination of private relationships in international situations. Hong Kong has abundant experience in bridging the common and civil law divide. Our Basic Law makes it possible for Hong Kong to establish a comprehensive mutual legal assistance (MLA) framework between the Mainland and Hong Kong. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Development Plan also provides a fertile ground for the convergence of legal practices, and the advancement of MLA among the three distinct jurisdictions within one country. Indeed, the GBA Task Force which I am now chairing is working towards the enhancement of our co-operation in a wide range of civil and commercial matters, so as to provide further convenience and benefits to individuals and businesses living and working in the GBA.

The Hong Kong-Mainland MLA framework currently consists of nine arrangements covering a wide range of civil and commercial matters, including service of documents, taking of evidence and recognition and enforcement of judgments.

Many of these arrangements are modelled on the relevant Hague Conventions such as the Hague Service Convention, Evidence Convention and the Judgments Convention, which serve to bridge the gaps between civil law and common law legal systems and our arrangements with the Mainland provide an excellent illustration on the importance and value of the Hague Conventions in bridging such gaps.

Hong Kong has indeed been privileged to participate in the work of the HCCH for more than two decades. Since 1998, representatives of the HKSAR, as members of the Chinese delegation, have taken part in the meetings and other work of the HCCH. Working closely with our counterparts in the Central Government and the Macao SAR, we participated in the Special Commission meetings and the Diplomatic Sessions.

We are also honoured to contribute to the work of the HCCH through various means. For instance, two Informal Working Groups under the Judgments Project, together with the inaugural global conference promoting the Convention shortly after its adoption, were successfully held in Hong Kong in 2019. In addition, we concluded a memorandum of understanding for the technical arrangements relating to the secondment of legal professionals between the HCCH and the HKSAR in 2020 and a counsel from my Department is also on secondment to the Permanent Bureau in The Hague at the moment.

Ladies and gentlemen, by hosting this Asia Pacific Week in Hong Kong in celebration of the 130th anniversary for the HCCH in the Asia-Pacific region and the world, it sends a clear message that Hong Kong is now back on world stage. We cherish the reunion with our old friends, and the bonding forged with our new guests.

We hope you all have had an enjoyable stay here, experiencing first-hand the attractive, vibrant and dynamic life of Hong Kong, our beloved city. We look forward to welcoming you all again in Hong Kong for other meetings, business or just vacation in the near future. Thank you.

]]><![CDATA[Fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens and phishing emails related to Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400469.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400469.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited relating to fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens and phishing emails, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

     The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks' websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

     Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites, login screens or emails concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.]]><![CDATA[Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to Dah Sing Bank, Limited ]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400466.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400466.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Dah Sing Bank, Limited relating to fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

     The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks' websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

     Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites or login screens concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.]]><![CDATA[Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to The Bank of East Asia, Limited]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400459.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400459.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by The Bank of East Asia, Limited relating to fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

     The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks' websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

     Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites or login screens concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.]]><![CDATA[Fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400448.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400448.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited relating to fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

     The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks' websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

     Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the websites or login screens concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.]]><![CDATA[Analytical Accounts of the Exchange Fund]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400444.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400444.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) released today (September 14) the key analytical accounts of the Exchange Fund at the end of August 2023.

     Foreign assets, representing the external assets of the Exchange Fund, decreased during the month by HK$6.4 billion to HK$3,483.4 billion.

     The Monetary Base, comprising Certificates of Indebtedness, Government‑issued currency notes and coins in circulation, the balance of the banking system and Exchange Fund Bills and Notes issued, amounted to HK$1,876.6 billion.

     Claims on the private sector in Hong Kong amounted to HK$273.1 billion.

     Foreign liabilities amounted to HK$22.1 billion.

     The analytical accounts of the Exchange Fund are released in accordance with the International Monetary Fund's Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS) and are referred to as the Analytical Accounts of the Central Bank under SDDS (Annex).

*********************************************************

     At present, four press releases relating to the Exchange Fund's data are issued by the HKMA each month. Three of these releases are issued to disseminate monetary data in accordance with the International Monetary Fund's SDDS. The fourth press release, on the Exchange Fund's Abridged Balance Sheet and Currency Board Account, is made in accordance with the HKMA's policy of maintaining a high level of transparency. For the month of September 2023, the scheduled dates for issuing the press releases are as follows:

September 7 (Issued)	SDDS International Reserves (Hong Kong's Latest Foreign Currency Reserve Assets Figures)
September 14	SDDS Analytical Accounts of the Central Bank (Analytical Accounts of the Exchange Fund)
September 29	SDDS Template on International Reserves and Foreign Currency Liquidity
September 29	Exchange Fund Abridged Balance Sheet and Currency Board Account

]]><![CDATA[Hong Kong's Gross National Income and external primary income flows for the second quarter of 2023]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400334.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400334.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
Hong Kong's GNI, which denotes the total income earned by Hong Kong residents from engaging in various economic activities, increased by 4.2% in the second quarter of 2023 over a year earlier to $786.9 billion at current market prices. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), estimated at $707.1 billion at current market prices in the same quarter, recorded a 4.4% increase over a year earlier. The value of GNI was larger than GDP by $79.8 billion in the second quarter of 2023, which was equivalent to 11.3% of GDP in that quarter, mainly attributable to a net inflow of investment income.

After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, Hong Kong’s GNI increased by 0.2% in real terms in the second quarter of 2023 over a year earlier. The corresponding GDP in the same quarter increased by 1.5% in real terms.

Hong Kong's total inflow of primary income, which mainly comprises investment income, estimated at $585.2 billion in the second quarter of 2023 and equivalent to 82.8% of GDP in that quarter, recorded a significant increase of 16.1% over a year earlier. Meanwhile, total primary income outflow, estimated at $505.4 billion in the second quarter of 2023 and equivalent to 71.5% of GDP in that quarter, also increased significantly by 18.7% over a year earlier.

As for the major components of investment income inflow, direct investment income (DII) increased by 7.8% over a year earlier, mainly due to the increase in earnings of some prominent local enterprises from their direct investment abroad. Portfolio investment income (PII) recorded an increase of 0.2% over a year earlier, mainly attributable to the increase in interest income received by resident investors from their holdings of non-resident debt securities, largely offset by the decrease in dividend income received by resident investors from their holdings of non-resident equity securities.

Regarding the major components of investment income outflow, DII increased by 7.9% over a year earlier, mainly due to the increase in earnings of some prominent multinational enterprises from their direct investment in Hong Kong. PII increased significantly by 18.8%, mainly attributable to the increase in dividend payout to non-resident investors from their holdings of resident equity securities.

Analysed by country/territory, the mainland of China continued to be the largest source of Hong Kong's total primary income inflow in the second quarter of 2023, accounting for 40.5%. This was followed by the British Virgin Islands (BVI), with a share of 17.4%. Regarding total primary income outflow, the mainland of China and the BVI remained the most important destinations in the second quarter of 2023, accounting for 36.6% and 21.6% respectively.

GDP and GNI are closely related indicators for measuring economic performance. GDP is a measure of the total value of production of all resident producing units of an economy. GNI denotes the total income earned by residents of an economy from engaging in various economic activities, irrespective of whether the economic activities are carried out within the economic territory of the economy or outside.

Figures of GNI and primary income flows analysed by income component from the third quarter of 2021 to the second quarter of 2023 are presented in Table A, while selected major country/territory breakdowns of primary income inflow and outflow for the same quarters are presented in Tables B(1) and B(2) respectively.

Statistics on GDP and GNI from 2021 onwards and primary income flows from 2022 onwards are subject to revision when more data are incorporated.

More detailed statistics are given in the report "Gross National Income and External Primary Income Flows, Second Quarter 2023". Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1040005&scode=250).

For enquiries about GNI and related statistics, please contact the Balance of Payments Branch (2) of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7054 or email: gni@censtatd.gov.hk).]]><![CDATA[Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in July 2023]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400298.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400298.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:30:00 +0800
In July 2023, the volume of Hong Kong's total exports of goods and imports of goods decreased by 11.5% and 10.4% respectively over July 2022.

Comparing the first seven months of 2023 with the same period in 2022, the volume of Hong Kong's total exports of goods and imports of goods decreased by 17.7% and 15.4% respectively.

Comparing the three-month period ending July 2023 with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of total exports of goods and imports of goods decreased by 8.4% and 6.1% respectively.

Changes in volume of external merchandise trade are derived from changes in external merchandise trade value with the effect of price changes discounted.

Comparing July 2023 with July 2022, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 3.0% and 3.3% respectively.

As regards price changes in the first seven months of 2023 over the same period in 2022, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 4.2% and 3.8% respectively.

Price changes in external merchandise trade are reflected by changes in unit value indices of external merchandise trade, which are compiled based on average unit values or, for certain commodities, specific price data.

The terms of trade index is derived from the ratio of price index of total exports of goods to that of imports of goods. Compared with the same periods in 2022, the index decreased by 0.3% in July 2023, whereas it increased by 0.4% in the first seven months of 2023.

Changes in the unit value and volume of total exports of goods by main destination are shown in Table 1.

Comparing July 2023 with July 2022, declines were recorded for the total export volume to all main destinations: the mainland of China (the Mainland) (-16.7%), India (-10.7%), Taiwan (-10.2%), the USA (-9.7%) and Vietnam (-1.0%).

Over the same period of comparison, the total export prices to all main destinations increased:
India (11.0%), the USA (4.5%), Taiwan (3.9%), Vietnam (3.7%) and the Mainland (2.0%).

Changes in the unit value and volume of imports of goods by main supplier are shown in Table 2.

Comparing July 2023 with July 2022, declines were recorded for the import volume from all main suppliers: Taiwan (-23.0%), Singapore (-13.7%), the USA (-11.5%), Japan (-10.7%) and the Mainland (-8.4%).

Over the same period of comparison, the import prices from all main suppliers increased: the Mainland (4.9%), Taiwan (4.8%), Singapore (4.8%), Japan (3.2%) and the USA (2.4%).

Details of the above statistics are published in the July 2023 issue of "Hong Kong Merchandise Trade Index Numbers". Users can browse and download the report at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020006&scode=230).

      Enquiries on merchandise trade indices may be directed to the Trade Analysis Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4918).]]><![CDATA[Inspection of aquatic products imported from Japan]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400496.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400496.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:20:00 +0800
For other Japanese aquatic products, sea salt, and seaweeds that are not prohibited from being imported into Hong Kong, the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department will conduct comprehensive radiological tests to verify that the radiation levels of these products do not exceed the guideline levels before they are allowed to be supplied in the market.

As the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water is unprecedented and will continue for 30 years or more, the Government will closely monitor and step up the testing arrangements. Should anomalies be detected, the Government does not preclude further tightening the scope of the import ban.

From noon on September 13 to noon today (September 14), the CFS conducted tests on the radiological level of 125 food samples imported from Japan, which were of the "aquatic and related products, seaweeds and sea salt" category. No sample was found to have exceeded the safety limit. Details can be found on the CFS's thematic website titled "Control Measures on Foods Imported from Japan" (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/programme_rafs_fc_01_30_Nuclear_Event_and_Food_Safety.html).

In parallel, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has also tested 50 samples of local catch for radiological tests. All the samples passed the tests. Details can be found on the AFCD's website (www.afcd.gov.hk/english/fisheries/Radiological_testing/Radiological_Test.html).

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has also enhanced the environmental monitoring of the local waters. No anomaly has been detected so far. For details, please refer to the HKO's website
(www.hko.gov.hk/en/radiation/monitoring/seawater.html).

From August 24 to noon today, the CFS and the AFCD have conducted tests on the radiological level of 3 256 samples of food imported from Japan (including 1 806 samples of aquatic and related products, seaweeds and sea salt) and 1 052 samples of local catch respectively. All the samples passed the tests.]]><![CDATA[Drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong in first half of 2023]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400274.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400274.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:15:00 +0800
Figures from the CRDA revealed that the total number of reported drug abusers in the first half of 2023 increased by 12 per cent (from 2 813 to 3 156) compared with that of the same period in 2022. The number of reported young drug abusers aged under 21 declined by 13 per cent (from 421 to 368). The most common type of drugs abused in the first half of 2023 was heroin, followed by cocaine and then methamphetamine (commonly known as "Ice"); while the most common type of drugs abused among reported young drug abusers aged under 21 was cocaine, followed by cannabis and then ketamine (commonly known as "K").

The ACAN is highly concerned about the cocaine (commonly known as "coke") abuse situation. In the first half of 2023, cocaine was the most common type of psychotropic substance abused. For the same period, cocaine was the most common type of drugs abused among reported young drug abusers aged under 21, with around half of them (52 per cent) having abused cocaine. In addition, when categorising arrests for drug offences by drug types, the number of persons arrested for offences related to cocaine was also the highest.

The ACAN Chairman, Dr Donald Li, said, "The global supply of cocaine has surged recently, and so has the number of reported cocaine abusers in Hong Kong. This situation is worrying. Members of the public should not be confused and lured by drug dealers who often tout cocaine as a symbol of being posh and trendy, or for successful professionals. High flyers never leverage on drugs to relieve stress or use them as entertainment. No drug is noble or humble as they are all illegal, and will ruin people's bodies and minds. We will launch a series of anti-drug education and publicity work to debunk all myths.

      "Cocaine is highly addictive and will do countless harm, including causing unbearable itchiness, nasal damage, delirium, and even death. Cocaine can send its abusers into a quagmire of financial difficulties and physical, as well as psychological, addictions. No one should give it a try. However, we appeal to all to encourage those who are unfortunately suffering from drug addiction to seek early help from various drug treatment and rehabilitation service units. Those in need may also call the 24-hour hotline 186 186 or send a message to 98 186 186 in WhatsApp and WeChat."

In order to enhance members of the public's understanding of the harm of cocaine, the Narcotics Division (ND) has produced an animated video, which is about how a young person with bright prospects had been controlled by his "inner demons" and paid a heavy price for one wrong decision: trying cocaine. The animated video has been uploaded onto the ND's website (www.nd.gov.hk/en/cocaine_info.html) as well as social media platforms (Facebook page and Instagram account of narcotics.divisionhk).

In addition to cocaine, Dr Li expressed concern over a recent rumour that drugs were suspected to be involved in post-secondary student activities in Hong Kong. He said, "Drugs have no place in a student's life. The ACAN expects tertiary institutions to step up anti-drug preventive education on campuses. Moreover, we also learned that the ND has approached different institutions, and will continue to provide universities, secondary schools and primary schools with appropriate anti-drug preventive education resources, with a view to safeguarding the drug-free culture on campuses."

He added, "A new school year has just begun. Students will make many new friends and participate in different social activities and overseas exchange programmes. Taking this opportunity, I would have to remind young people that they should not try drugs, including cannabis, out of curiosity or peer pressure, even if drugs are offered for free. While facing stress from daily life or study, one can build a healthy and positive lifestyle through sports or hobbies. Anyone suffering from emotional or mental problems should consult medical professionals or seek help from social workers. Remember, 'Let's Stand Firm. Knock Drugs Out!'"

According to the figures from law enforcement agencies, among all the drug offence cases concluded in courts in the first half of 2023, including drug trafficking cases involving young offenders aged under 21, the conviction rate was high and close to 90 per cent. The spokesman for the ND stressed that young age is not a valid mitigating factor and reminded that anyone who has committed a drug offence is liable for serious criminal punishment. Young people are urged not to put their future at risk out of greed, and participate in drug trafficking activities for money or resolving financial problems. Offenders of these crimes can never escape the long arm of the law. Offenders trafficking in less than 10 grams of cocaine could already be subject to two to five years of imprisonment.

The website of the ND (www.nd.gov.hk) contains detailed information about drugs, including frequently asked questions about cocaine and cannabis for the public's reference. In addition, the figures of the CRDA for the first half of 2023 are also available on the website of the ND (www.nd.gov.hk/en/crda_main_charts_and_tables.html).]]><![CDATA[Appeal for information on missing woman in Cheung Sha Wan (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400489.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400489.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:02:47 +0800
     Wang Xiao-ying, aged 88, went missing after she left her residence in Un Chau Estate yesterday (September 13) afternoon. Her family made a report to Police on the same day.

     She is about 1.4 metres tall, 40 kilograms in weight and of thin build. She has a square face with yellow complexion and short white hair. She was last seen wearing a pink floral shirt, trousers, a black headband and carrying a walking stick.

     Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of Kowloon West on 3661 8036 or 9020 6542 or email to rmpu-kw@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

]]><![CDATA[SFST's speech at HSBC x HKTDC Belt and Road Business Networking Luncheon (English only)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400437.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400437.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 16:01:00 +0800
Luanne (Ms Luanne Lim, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Hong Kong), ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon and welcome to the Belt and Road Business Networking Luncheon co-organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and HSBC. I was told that this luncheon was heavily over-subscribed and hence our co-organisers decided to move it to this more spacious venue (Convention Hall B at HKCEC) to accommodate more participants. Thank you for your great interest in joining the luncheon, and I am sure you will benefit from the wisdoms soon to be shared by our panellists on their experience and insights in actualising the business opportunities brought by the Belt and Road Initiative.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, so we have specially curated a Finance Chapter for the summit this time and I am sure many of you have participated in that session. Now I wish to continue the conversation from the Finance Chapter and share further with you the key areas of opportunities offered by Hong Kong for the Belt and Road initiatives in terms of our financial services offering.

First, it is on infrastructure financing. Infrastructure is the backbone of connectivity and development. Yet there exists a financing gap, particularly in Asia, which cannot be filled by public capital alone. Private sector participation is essential to mobilise more capital, resources and expertise for infrastructure projects. Hong Kong has a deep and liquid capital market that can provide various financing options for infrastructure projects, and a platform to foster public private partnerships. We also have a robust legal system that ensures the enforcement of contracts and the protection of investors' rights. In the Finance Chapter I talked about how Hong Kong, as Asia's renowned bond market, offers a range of options for governments and enterprises looking to finance infrastructure projects for the Belt and Road Initiative.

Indeed the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has also participated first-hand in the infrastructure financing market, having successfully issued infrastructure loan-backed securities under a pilot scheme on infrastructure financing securitisation in May this year. The issuance was done by the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited (HKMC), consisting of a portfolio of 35 project and infrastructure loans in 25 individual projects, spreading across 12 countries and nine sectors, with a total value of around US$404 million. The issuance offers institutional investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of project finance, infrastructure and corporate loans across multiple geographies and sectors. The issuance itself is a policy measure announced in the 2022-23 Budget by the Financial Secretary, and it will further propel Hong Kong to become the premier international financing platform for the Belt and Road Initiative.

Leveraging our role as a fast developing international centre for green and sustainable finance, this issuance has also incorporated element of sustainability. One of the classes of securities issued is in accordance with the HKMC's Social, Green and Sustainability Financing Framework, which aligns with the Green Bond Principles, Social Bond Principles and Sustainability Bond Guidelines released by the International Capital Market Association. Also, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) participated in this issuance as an anchor investor, as a way to fulfil its strategy to mobilise private capital into the infrastructure sector, supporting infrastructure securitisation platform along Paris-aligned and net zero development pathway.

Indeed, I will be travelling to Egypt next week to attend the AIIB's annual meeting, and I very much look forward to discussing with the bank and its members further collaboration opportunities under the theme "Sustainable Growth in a Challenging World".

The next and final topic I wish to cover is Renminbi (RMB) internationalisation and our latest development. In the Finance Chapter I shared with you the prominent role of Hong Kong as the global offshore RMB business hub, and how we can capitalise on the opportunities brought by the expanding utilisation of RMB in bilateral trade and investment for the Belt and Road Initiative. Now I wish to share with you our new initiative launched earlier this year to expand the usage of RMB in our stock market, the HKD-RMB Dual Counter Model. Under this model, companies listed in our stock exchange can offer their shares in both Hong Kong dollars and RMB, and these shares would belong to the same class, with the same rights and entitlements, and be fully tradable across the HKD and RMB counters. So far 24 companies have launched new RMB counters under this model, and they collectively account for around 40 per cent of average daily turnover in our stock market. The launch of this model complements our existing product suite of RMB financial products, for example exchange-traded funds and debt instruments, and offers investors RMB exposures in our existing stocks with sizable market capitalisation and liquidity. Considering Hong Kong's advantages in terms of size of RMB pool at about RMB1 trillion, liquidity and product variety, our market is definitely the place to go for our Belt and Road partners looking for more opportunities riding on the trend of RMB internationalisation.

Having shared with you more on infrastructure financing and RMB internationalisation, let me conclude my remarks here and I wish you all an insightful panel and an enjoyable lunch to come. Thank you.]]><![CDATA[SFST's opening remarks at Finance Chapter of Belt and Road Summit (English only) (with photo)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400427.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400427.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:57:36 +0800
Ladies and Gentlemen,

     Good morning.

     This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative - a significant milestone that vividly demonstrates the enduring vision and unwavering commitment of all participating countries and regions.

Finance Chapter

     This year's Belt and Road Summit features a Finance Chapter for the very first time, recognising the crucial role that finance plays in driving the success of the Belt and Road Initiative. The Finance Chapter provides us with a platform to address and exchange views on the tremendous opportunities associated with financing projects along the Belt and Road, with topics covering capital raising, energy transition, green technology as well as fintech. This underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in the financial sector as we forge ahead towards a more prosperous future.

Hong Kong's advantage in financial services

     Hong Kong, with its robust financial ecosystem, is uniquely positioned to contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative. As a premier international financial centre, we possess a mature and efficient market, a wide range of financial products and services, and a wealth of expertise in infrastructure financing, risk management, and green finance. Our participation in the Belt and Road Initiative enables us to showcase Hong Kong's strengths and explore new opportunities for collaboration with financial institutions from around the world.

     An exemplary illustration lies in infrastructure financing. As infrastructure development gains momentum within the Belt and Road region, enterprises can turn to Hong Kong for diverse avenues of capital raising and financing. Hong Kong, renowned as Asia's leading bond market, offers a range of options such as initial public offerings, post-listing arrangements, bond issuance, and bank loans. In fact, as highlighted by the International Capital Market Association (ICMA), counting in terms of bonds issued internationally by Asia-based entities, the volume arranged by Hong Kong ranked first globally for seven consecutive years since 2016, exceeding US$100 billion and capturing 30 per cent of the market in 2022. To foster greater participation from investors and fundraisers from the Mainland, Asia, and the Belt and Road region in Hong Kong's bond market, the Government has implemented a series of measures to enhance its competitiveness. These initiatives include attracting enterprises to issue bonds in Hong Kong, promoting investor engagement, and expanding the market for green and sustainable finance. Notably, the Qualifying Debt Instrument Scheme has been expanded to encompass a wider range of debt instruments, enabling enterprises investing in bonds issued in Hong Kong to enjoy enhanced tax benefits.

     With expanding utilisation of Renminbi (RMB) in bilateral trade and investment, Belt and Road-related countries and regions can capitalise on Hong Kong's prominent role as the global offshore RMB business hub. As at end June 2023, the RMB deposits in Hong Kong was about RMB1 trillion, establishing it as the largest offshore RMB pool worldwide.

     We are endeavouring to attract corporations in the Belt and Road countries and regions to set up corporate treasury centres (CTCs) in Hong Kong. We have also been making efforts in sharpening our competitive edge on asset and wealth management, such as diversification of fund structures including the open-ended fund company and limited partnership fund regimes, a re-domiciliation mechanism for foreign funds to migrate to Hong Kong, provision of a more facilitating tax environment and attracting family offices to set up and operate in Hong Kong. These measures are all conducive to attracting global capital to Hong Kong, strengthening our position as a premier asset and wealth management centre, and supporting the fundraising and investment needs of the Belt and Road Initiative.

     As a leading green bond centre in Asia, Hong Kong offers a high-quality green financing platform for issuers from the Belt and Road countries and regions. We welcome and encourage more green enterprises and projects to use the financing platform in Hong Kong. We are also committed to promoting market development. Since the establishment of the Government Green Bond Programme in 2018, we have so far issued government green bonds totalling an equivalent of about US$22 billion, establishing important market benchmarks. We have also launched a subsidy scheme to support bond issuers to make green bond issuances and certifications in Hong Kong. To further enrich the green finance ecosystem in Hong Kong and align with international standards, we have been working with financial regulators and stakeholders on developing a green classification framework and strengthening sustainability disclosures. On the other hand, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited launched a voluntary carbon trading platform, Core Climate, last year, on which eligible participants can trade voluntary carbon credits to neutralise or compensate for the buyers' carbon emissions. Corporations in the Belt and Road countries and regions can surely make use of this platform to trade high-quality voluntary carbon credits and facilitate capital flow to green projects.

Middle East and ASEAN

     I was lucky enough to join the Chief Executive on his significant visits to the Middle East and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) earlier this year. These places share a pivotal role within the Belt and Road Initiative and present numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth. Hong Kong, renowned for its world-class financial infrastructure and professional services, stands ready to provide one-stop solutions for countries and regions along the Belt and Road to attract international capital to support their projects and development. Together, we can forge strong partnerships and leverage our respective strengths to drive sustainable economic development along the Belt and Road.

     Yesterday, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Department of Economy and Tourism of Dubai. This MOU aims at fostering financial collaboration between Hong Kong and the Emirate of Dubai and signifies the closer bonding between these two places in the fields of family office, fintech, virtual assets and green finance, and enhance knowledge exchange among the two markets.

Tax

   Not only is Hong Kong keen to contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative in the area of financial services, but also eager to strengthen collaboration with other Belt and Road economies in terms of tax co-operation. This will minimise tax compliance costs and facilitate cross-border trade and investment, thereby fostering closer bilateral and multilateral economic relations with Belt and Road countries.

     We do take pride in Hong Kong's commitment to enhancing tax co-operation and promoting exchanges and collaboration in tax matters on both regional and international fronts. Taking this opportunity, I am excited to share with you all that as a founding member jurisdiction of the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism (also known as BRITACOM) established in 2019, Hong Kong is going to host the 5th Conference of the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum in September next year. Through the conference, we will provide a platform to facilitate effective dialogue on tax co-operation and capacity building among more than 30 tax administrations, as well as other interested parties including international organisations, academic institutions and businesses supportive of the Belt and Road Initiative. This will enshrine Hong Kong's role as a key functional platform for the Belt and Road Initiative and allow us to contribute to the building of a sustainable tax environment.

     It is our great pleasure to host this meaningful event next year in Hong Kong and we look forward to extending our hospitality to our friends in the Belt and Road markets.

     I hope today's sessions in this Finance Chapter will provide valuable insights to all of you in seizing the opportunities that lie ahead and harnessing the power of financial services to maximise the potential of the Belt and Road Initiative.

     Thank you very much.

]]><![CDATA[Effective Exchange Rate Index]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400221.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400221.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:50:00 +0800<![CDATA[Section of Shek O Road reopened with access limited to public light buses (with photo)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400458.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400458.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:30:00 +0800
A Government spokesman said, "To avoid hindering the emergency maintenance works, Shek O Road has been temporarily closed to other vehicles, including buses and private cars, until the emergency maintenance and road enhancement works are completed by the Highways Department (HyD). Depending on the weather condition and work progress, we aim to reopen one of the traffic lanes to all light vehicles within today."

Some of the temporary repair materials on Shek O Road were washed away by rainstorm this morning. Upon careful inspection and risk assessment, the HyD and the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) deemed it fit to reopen the affected road section with limited access to an RMB route running between Shau Kei Wan and Shek O. However, for the sake of prudence, all passengers are required to alight at the affected road section for drivers to manoeuvre through the section without patrons. Passengers have to walk past the affected section for about 100 metres before boarding the RMBs to continue their trip.

The spokesman said, "The RMB route will only provide limited services, departing from the Shau Kei Wan Station Public Light Bus Terminus and the Shek O Car Park every 30 minutes from noon onwards. Service frequency might increase depending on the situation at the scene and vehicle deployment."

The Government urges members of the public to avoid entering Shek O Road unless it is necessary, to prevent interfering with the progress of the urgent repairing works. Passengers of public light buses should follow the command at the site and be mindful when passing by the road section concerned to ensure safety.

The HyD and the CEDD are carrying out emergency maintenance works at full steam, with a view to reopening one lane for light vehicles as soon as possible in a safe condition to facilitate public access.

]]><![CDATA[LD invites entries for 24th Construction Industry Safety Award Scheme]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400245.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400245.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:30:00 +0800
     A Labour Department (LD) spokesman said, "Co-organised by the LD and 16 major stakeholders in the construction industry, the scheme aims at raising the occupational safety and health (OSH) awareness of contractors, site personnel and workers of the construction industry, fostering a positive safety culture and encouraging the adoption of safe work practices in the industry. The scheme also offers awards to contractors, site personnel and workers in recognition of their good OSH performance."

     The scheme is divided into three main categories: Construction Sites, Safety Teams and Safe Workers. Entries for the Construction Sites category are further divided into eight sub-categories, namely Building Sites (Public Sector); Building Sites (Private Sector); Civil Engineering Sites; Renovation and Maintenance Works; Minor Renovation and Maintenance Works; Building Sites - Sub-contractors; Civil Engineering Sites - Sub-contractors; and Renovation and Maintenance Works - Sub-contractors. For the Construction Sites and Safety Teams categories, there will be a gold prize, a silver prize, a bronze prize and a meritorious prize. For the Safe Worker category, each winner will be presented with a cash coupon, a certificate and a badge.

     To encourage contractors to take heat stroke preventive measures at work in a proactive manner, a new award, namely the Most Active Construction Site in Boosting the Preventive Measures against Heat Stroke at Work Award, will be introduced this year in each of the four sub-categories under the Construction Sites category. They are: Building Sites (Public Sector), Building Sites (Private Sector), Civil Engineering Sites and Renovation and Maintenance Works. Additionally, in the sub-category of Building Sites (Private Sector), the assessment criteria will be expanded to include construction design and management, with the aim of promoting the inclusion of OSH elements in the planning and design stages of construction works.

     All construction contractors, sub-contractors and site personnel in Hong Kong are invited to compete for the awards, provided that no serious or fatal accidents have been recorded on their construction sites and the contractors or sub-contractors have not received any suspension notices served by the LD in the 12 months preceding the enrolment deadline.

     Scheme brochures with enrolment forms can be downloaded from the LD's website (www.labour.gov.hk/common/news/pdf/CISAS_2023-2024_TC_EN.pdf) by interested parties. They can also be obtained from offices of the Occupational Safety and Health Branch of the LD (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/tele/od.htm). The closing date for the award scheme entries is October 4. The results will be announced in April next year.

     In addition, the scheme will feature a number of promotional activities, including a safety quiz competition, to enhance the OSH awareness of the industry and the public. The quiz competition is divided into Individual and Group categories. Citizens aged 15 or above and construction-related organisations are welcome to join. Enrolment will start on October 5, and application forms can be obtained from offices of the Occupational Safety and Health Branch or downloaded from the LD's website from that date onwards. The deadline for enrolment is November 1.

     For details of the related assessment scheme and criteria, please refer to the scheme brochure. Enquiries can be made on 2852 3565.]]><![CDATA[SED visits City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan) (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400282.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400282.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:17:00 +0800
     Accompanied by the Chairman of the Council of City University of Hong Kong, Mr Lester Garson Huang, Dr Choi toured the campus and various teaching and research facilities. She said she was pleased to learn that the first phase of the campus construction had officially completed last month and that the university was pressing ahead with the preparatory work for its official establishment.

     Dr Choi said that the Education Bureau supports Hong Kong's higher education institutions to pursue different forms of collaboration in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Mainland cities, leveraging the characteristics and competitive edges of Hong Kong's higher education sector, creating favourable conditions for scientific research and development, knowledge transfer and commercialisation, as well as promoting exchanges and research activities of high academic standard among teachers and students in the GBA. Dr Choi hoped that with its first-class educational resources and strengths in various disciplines, City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan), upon its official commissioning, will contribute to the nurturing of innovative and internationalised top-notch talent for the country.

     In addition, Dr Choi visited Tsinglan School in Dongguan with Legislative Council Member Mr Chu Kwok-keung and a delegation from the education sector yesterday (September 13) to meet the school representatives and learn about the school's bilingual and international education philosophy and practical experience. They then toured the headquarters of Huawei to understand the latest innovation and technology development on the Mainland. On the same day, Dr Choi also visited China Scivest WTE Plant of Canvest Environmental Protection Group Company Limited in Dongguan to learn about related initiatives on environmental protection education.

     Dr Choi concluded her visit to Dongguan and returned to Hong Kong this afternoon.

]]><![CDATA[Smart Traffic Fund approves six projects]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400307.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400307.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:05:00 +0800
     The six approved projects in the latest batch cover electric vehicle risk assessment model, traffic accident risk management solution, multi-modal delivery system, novel emotion-aware navigation system, smart planning platform for delivering Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) module, and trial of robobus. Details of the projects are available on the Fund's website (www.stf.hkpc.org).

     The Fund accepts applications year-round to provide funding support to local organisations and enterprises for conducting research and application of innovation and technology with the objectives of enhancing commuting convenience, enhancing efficiency of the road network or road space, and improving driving safety. All applications are considered and assessed in batches by the Management Committee, which is chaired by the Deputy Commissioner for Transport (Planning and Technical Services) and comprises representatives from the Government, experts in the industry and relevant stakeholders.

     The TD appeals to interested organisations and enterprises for participation to help make the Fund a success, and to build Hong Kong into a more liveable and sustainable city by driving Hong Kong toward a new era of transportation.

     Application details are available on the Fund's website. For enquiries, please contact the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Secretariat of the Fund, on 2788 5536 or stf_sec@hkpc.org.]]><![CDATA[Test results of seasonal food surveillance project on mooncakes (first phase) all satisfactory (with photo)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400289.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400289.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 15:00:00 +0800
     A spokesman for the CFS said that samples covering traditional, snowy, ice-cream and other types of mooncakes had been collected from various retailers (including online retailers) and food factories for chemical and microbiological tests, and nutrition content analysis.

     The chemical tests covered colouring matters, aflatoxins, preservatives and metallic contaminants. Microbiological tests covered different pathogens and hygiene indicators. For nutrition content analysis, the contents of sodium, sugars and total fat of the samples were tested to see if they were consistent with the declared values on the nutrition labels.

     The spokesman reminded members of the public to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of mooncakes as they are generally high in sugar and fat. Some types of mooncakes also contain relatively high levels of salt. Eating too much fat will increase the risk of being overweight and obese, while dietary sugar intake is a determinant of body weight and dental decay. In addition, excessive sodium intake will increase the risk of developing hypertension, fatal stroke and coronary heart disease.

     He advised people to refer to nutrition labels, particularly on the sugar, salt and fat contents, to make a healthier choice. People should avoid choosing mooncakes with high levels of fat or sugar, i.e. containing more than 20 grams of total fat or more than 15g of sugar per 100g of food. As for reducing salt intake, people can choose low-sodium mooncakes, i.e. containing no more than 120 milligrams of sodium per 100g of food.

     He said that people should consider their health conditions and consume mooncakes in an appropriate amount during the Mid-Autumn Festival. He also advised people to share mooncakes with their family members and friends, as this not only enhances the festive atmosphere, but also allows them to taste mooncakes of different flavours and avoid overconsumption.

     Members of the public should heed the following points in the purchase, storage and consumption of mooncakes to prevent food-borne diseases:

* Buy mooncakes from reliable outlets rather than patronising unlicensed hawkers. Check whether the mooncakes are properly packaged, pay attention to the expiry dates before purchase and eat them before the expiry dates;

* Store mooncakes according to the instructions on the package if they are not to be consumed immediately. Keep snowy mooncakes at 4 degrees Celsius or below and ice-cream mooncakes at minus 18 degrees C or below, and consume them as soon as possible after taking them out from the refrigerator;

* Use an icebox to carry snowy or ice-cream mooncakes outdoors and consume them as soon as possible;

* Wrap mooncakes properly and separate them from raw food when storing in a refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination; and

* Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash hands properly with liquid soap and running water before handling and consuming mooncakes.

     The spokesman also reminded food traders to adhere to the Good Manufacturing Practice. Apart from purchasing food ingredients from reliable suppliers, they should also comply with legal requirements when using food additives.

     "Snowy and ice-cream mooncakes, which do not undergo a baking process at high temperature, need to be handled hygienically during processing, transportation and storage to avoid contamination and growth of germs," he said.

     The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on mooncakes and the second-phase results will be released in a timely manner to ensure food safety.

]]><![CDATA[Recruitment for six civil service graduate grades to start on Saturday (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400236.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400236.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 14:30:00 +0800
The recruitment is open to all permanent residents of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) who meet the relevant entry requirements. Students pursuing a bachelor's degree or equivalent and graduating in the year of 2024 or 2025 may also apply. The respective recruitment targets are set out below:

Posts	Recruitment target
Administrative Officer	50
Executive Officer II	220
Assistant Labour Officer II	10
Assistant Trade Officer II	4
Management Services Officer II	7
Transport Officer II	15

Arrangements will be made for eligible applicants to take the Joint Recruitment Examination (JRE) tentatively scheduled to be held on December 2 in Hong Kong.

In addition to taking the JRE, applicants for these posts will need to have obtained:

(a) Level 2 in the two language papers (Use of Chinese and Use of English) in the Common Recruitment Examination (CRE), or other results which are accepted as equivalent (details are set out on the Civil Service Bureau (CSB)'s CRE website at www.csb.gov.hk/eng/cre.html);

(b) a pass result in the Aptitude Test paper in the CRE; and

(c) a pass result in the Basic Law and National Security Law Test (BLNST) (degree/professional grades).

Applicants who do not possess the above CRE and/or BLNST results may also apply. Arrangements will be made for them to take a designated CRE and BLNST tentatively scheduled for December 2 in Hong Kong. They must obtain the requisite results for their JRE answers to be processed.

To provide greater convenience for applicants residing or studying on the Mainland and overseas, the CSB will add an additional test centre in Shanghai. In other words, applicants could choose to attend the JRE in one of the eight cities outside Hong Kong (i.e. Beijing, Shanghai, London, San Francisco, New York, Toronto, Vancouver and Sydney). Meanwhile, the CRE and the BLNST are also tentatively scheduled to be held on December 2 in these eight cities. Applicants who need to take relevant papers may apply from September 23 and the application period closes at 5pm on October 6 (Hong Kong time). The details and an online application system will be available on the CSB's CRE webpage during the application period. Similarly, applicants outside Hong Kong who have yet to possess the CRE and/or BLNST results have to obtain the requisite results for their JRE answers to be processed.

Details of the joint recruitment exercise will be uploaded to the CSB's website at www.csb.gov.hk, as well as on the HKSAR Government portal (GovHK) at www.gov.hk from this Saturday. For the recruitment of AO, relevant information will also be available on a dedicated website at www.ao-recruitment.gov.hk. Applicants can make online applications directly or download the application forms (CSB 606 (Rev. 9/2023) and CSB 606A (Rev. 9/2023)) through the CSB's website. The forms will also be available at Home Affairs Enquiry Centres of the Home Affairs Department, Job Centres of the Employment Services Division of the Labour Department, or the Information Counter on 1/F of the Trade and Industry Tower.

Applicants may visit the CSB's website for any updates of the examination arrangements.

]]><![CDATA[SCS encourages university students to learn more about employment opportunities in different government grades (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400228.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400228.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0800
Mrs Yeung said different departments and grades of the Government recruit a large number of staff every year to provide young people with job opportunities of different types and nature, reasonable remuneration and conditions of service, as well as long-term and stable career development. These posts are suitable for university students who aspire to contribute to Hong Kong and wish to take up different challenges. She reminded students that the joint recruitment exercise for six civil service grades will be launched this Saturday (September 16). Students may learn more about the work of different grades and consider the various job opportunities offered by the Government.

To deepen students' understanding of the work of different grades in the Government and answer their questions on recruitment matters on the spot, 21 bureaux and departments took part in the Career Fair with respective department staff addressing students' enquiries on-site. Quite a number of students took the opportunity after lecture to visit the fair and obtain relevant information.

The Career Fair covered general grades, professional grades and the disciplined services, including Administrative Officer (AO), Executive Officer II (EOII), Assistant Labour Officer II (ALOII), Management Services Officer II (MSOII), Transport Officer II (TOII), Landscape Architect, Town Planner, Statistician, Building Surveyor, Structural Engineer, Survey Officer, Analyst/Programmer II, Assistant Programme Officer, Assistant Curator II, education-related posts, as well as various positions in the disciplined services.

Mrs Yeung said, "We understand that students have different plans after graduation. Some may choose to further their studies while some may wish to start their own business. Joining the civil service and serving the community is an option well worth considering. Students interested in joining the civil service are advised to find out more and prepare themselves for the application process. As different positions in the Government have different requirements, students can learn more about the work of different grades in the Government and focus on the direction of work that suits their interests. Holding career fairs at universities not only provides students with more information, but also assists students who wish to join the public service to plan their careers at an earlier stage."

The Government will launch the joint recruitment for six civil service grades, namely AO, EOII, ALOII, Assistant Trade Officer II, MSOII and TOII, this Saturday. The application deadline is October 6. In addition to graduates next year (2024), undergraduate students who will graduate in 2025 can also apply for the positions this year.

Mrs Yeung reminded candidates who wish to apply for the six civil service posts to attain the requisite results in the relevant paper(s) in the Common Recruitment Examination (CRE) and the Basic Law and National Security Law Test (BLNST).

She said, "The Government used to hold the CRE and the BLNST in Hong Kong in June and October every year. In previous years, some candidates only realised that they had missed the CRE in October after applying for the joint recruitment positions, and their applications could not then be proceeded. This year, we will arrange eligible applicants who have applied for the above six civil service posts but have yet to attain the requisite results to sit for a designated CRE and BLNST tentatively scheduled on December 2 in Hong Kong."

For details of the latest arrangements of the joint recruitment, please refer to the Civil Service Bureau's press release.

]]><![CDATA[SCST shows support for athletes participating in Asian Games and Asian Para Games (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400357.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400357.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 13:10:08 +0800
     Accompanied by the Commissioner for Sports, Mr Sam Wong; Vice Chairmen of the Board of Directors of the HKSI Mr Chew Fook-aun and Mrs Jenny Fung; and the Chief Executive of the HKSI, Dr Trisha Leahy, Mr Yeung toured various facilities at the HKSI. These included the fencing hall, the badminton hall and the Wushu hall, where the visiting officials exchanged views with elite athletes and coaches and learned about their training arrangements as well as the support provided by the HKSI. Mr Yeung took the opportunity to express his best wishes to the athletes, hoping that they will give their best and bring glory to Hong Kong.

     Mr Yeung, together with the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, and Mr Wong, also met with judo and cricket athletes yesterday afternoon (September 13) while they were preparing for the Games at the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Sports Centre and the Craigengower Cricket Club respectively and cheered for them.

     Mr Yeung said, "While the Asian Games and the Asian Para Games will be held in Hangzhou, it means a lot for our athletes of the Hong Kong, China Delegation to compete in our country. During their stay in Hangzhou, I also hope they could have a deeper understanding of the development of our country. By having more exchanges and interactions with athletes of other delegations, they would demonstrate the demeanour of great Hong Kong athlete."

     The Asian Games and the Asian Para Games will be held during September 23 to October 8 and October 22 to 28 respectively. Hong Kong, China will send about 660 and about 98 athletes for the Asian Games and the Asian Para Games respectively. In addition to the HKSI's support to athletes competing in elite sports events, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau has also approved from the Arts and Sport Development Fund (Sports Portion) a grant of $77 million in preparation funding to support other athletes and their teams preparing for both Games.

]]><![CDATA[Government posts land resumption notices for developments at Chuk Yuen United Village and Ngau Chi Wan Village, Wong Tai Sin]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400350.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400350.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 12:59:00 +0800
     Sixty-three private lots with a total area of about 0.73 hectares will be resumed by the Government. The land will revert to the Government upon the expiry of a period of three months from the date of affixing the notices (i.e. December 15).

     The Government will closely liaise with the affected parties and handle compensation matters.

     The developments at Chuk Yuen United Village and Ngau Chi Wan Village, Wong Tai Sin, will provide about 1 500 and 2 700 flats respectively upon completion. Their first batches of population intake are expected in 2029 and 2031 respectively.]]><![CDATA[Temporary traffic and transport arrangements at East Kowloon Corridor southbound in early hours of September 17 and 24]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400325.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400325.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 12:30:00 +0800
(A) Road closures
---------------------

The following road sections will be temporarily closed to all vehicular traffic:

All traffic lanes of East Kowloon Corridor southbound between San Shan Road and Fat Kwong Street;
The fast lane of the westbound tube of the Kai Tak Tunnel;
The fast lane of Kai Fuk Road westbound near the Kai Tak Tunnel westbound portal;
The only lane of San Shan Road westbound between To Kwa Wan Road and East Kowloon Corridor;
Part of the fast lane of To Kwa Wan Road southbound near San Shan Road westbound; and
Part of the slow lane of Chatham Road North southbound between Pak Kung Street and Hok Yuen Street.

(B) Prohibition of turning movements
---------------------

During the full closure of East Kowloon Corridor southbound, the following turning movements will be prohibited:

Vehicles travelling on To Kwa Wan Road southbound will be prohibited from making right turn onto San Shan Road westbound; and
Vehicles travelling on To Kwa Wan Road northbound will be prohibited from making left turn onto San Shan Road westbound.

(C) Traffic diversions
--------------------------

During the full closure of East Kowloon Corridor southbound, the following traffic diversions will be implemented:

Vehicles travelling westbound along the Kai Tak Tunnel westbound heading to Chatham Road North southbound via East Kowloon Corridor southbound are advised to travel via San Shan Road eastbound, To Kwa Wan Road southbound, Ma Tau Wai Road southbound, Gillies Avenue North southbound and Hok Yuen Street westbound;
Vehicles travelling southbound on To Kwa Wan Road heading to Chatham Road North southbound via San Shan Road westbound and East Kowloon Corridor southbound are advised to travel via To Kwa Wan Road southbound, Ma Tau Wai Road southbound, Gillies Avenue North southbound and Hok Yuen Street westbound;
Vehicles travelling northbound on To Kwa Wan Road heading to Chatham Road North southbound via San Shan Road westbound and East Kowloon Corridor southbound are advised to travel via San Ma Tau Street eastbound, San Ma Tau Street westbound, To Kwa Wan Road southbound, Ma Tau Wai Road southbound, Gillies Avenue North southbound and Hok Yuen Street westbound; and
Vehicles travelling westbound on San Ma Tau Street heading to Chatham Road North southbound via San Shan Road westbound and East Kowloon Corridor southbound are advised to travel via To Kwa Wan Road southbound, Ma Tau Wai Road southbound, Gillies Avenue North southbound and Hok Yuen Street westbound.

(D) Bus and green minibus (GMB) route diversions
---------------------

During the full closure of East Kowloon Corridor southbound, the southbound departures of KMB route Nos. 13X, 14X, 98D, 213X, 215X, 219X, 296D and W2, Citybus route Nos. 795X, 796P, overnight route No. N796, and Kowloon overnight GMB route No. 62S will be diverted. En-route bus and GMB stops will not be affected. Please visit the TD's website for details.

The public transport operators will display notices to advise passengers on the special arrangements. Appropriate diversion signs will also be erected on-site to guide motorists. The TD anticipates that the travelling time at the road sections concerned will be slightly lengthened due to the diversion arrangements. Motorists should exercise tolerance and patience.

      Members of the public are advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow sufficient traveling time to cater for unexpected delay, and stay alert to the latest traffic news through the media or the TD's mobile application "HKeMobility" or website (www.td.gov.hk).]]><![CDATA[Government posts land resumption notices for drainage improvement works in Yuen Long]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400283.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400283.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 12:20:00 +0800
Seventeen private lots with a total area of about 1 469 square metres will be resumed by the Government. The land will revert to the Government upon the expiry of a period of three months from the date of affixing the notices (i.e. December 15).

The Government will maintain close liaison with the relevant land owners and affected parties, and properly handle their compensation matters.

The works mentioned above will improve the drainage systems of Lin Fa Tei, Sung Shan New Village and Shan Ha Tsuen in Yuen Long to enhance the drainage capacity. The works are expected for completion in stages in around four years.]]><![CDATA[Missing man in Mong Kok located]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400347.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400347.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 12:03:36 +0800
     Lo Po-tak, aged 59, went missing after he left a caring centre on Ivy Street on September 5 afternoon. The staff of caring centre made a report to Police on September 6.

     The man returned to the caring centre this morning (September 14). He was sent to Kwong Wah Hospital for examination. No suspicious circumstances were detected.]]><![CDATA[Classes of PM schools to proceed as usual today]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400316.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400316.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 11:37:56 +0800
     Please broadcast the following special announcement by the Education Bureau concerning schools, and repeat it at suitable intervals:

Classes of all AM schools and whole-day schools will remain suspended today (September 14). Schools should implement contingency plans and arrange for staff to look after students who might arrive, and ensure that conditions are safe before allowing students to return home. Meanwhile, classes of all PM schools will proceed as usual today.]]><![CDATA[LCSD to present two concerts by China Broadcasting Chinese Orchestra in October (with photos)]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091300538.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091300538.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 11:30:00 +0800
     Under the baton of its Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, Pang Kapang, the first concert will feature a number of renowned soloists from the CBCO, including Honorary Concertmaster Jiang Kemei (banhu), former Principal Pipa Chen Yin, Principal Percussion Ma Li (paigu), Principal Zhonghu Yang Liu (erhu) and Principal Suona Zhou Yixiang. They will perform original, well-known compositions and adaptations by the late legendary conductor and composer Peng Xiuwen, such as "The Drums and Gongs of Harvest", "The Moon Rises High", "Celebrating a Bumper Harvest", "Reflection of the Moon on the Water", "Moonlight over the Spring River" and "Pretty Maidens".

     In the second concert, Guest Conductor Chen Xieyang, along with virtuosi Jiang Kemei (jinghu), Tang Junqiao (dizi) and Yu Hongmei (erhu), will join hands and present works by contemporary composers from the Mainland, such as "Festival Overture", "In the Deep of the Night", "The Song of Flight" and "Red Plum Capriccio". The CBCO will also perform famous pieces with lyrics by the eminent lyricist Chen Dieyi, including "The Evening Bells of Nanping", "Lover's Tears", "There is a Love of Mine" and "The Spring Breeze Kisses My Cheek".

     Established in 1949, the CBCO is one of five affiliates of the China Broadcasting Performing Arts Troupe. It pioneered the configuration of a Chinese orchestra, viz. four sections of bowed strings, plucked strings, woodwinds and percussion. This format is now widely adopted by other Chinese orchestras on the Mainland and other parts of the world. The CBCO has also nurtured numerous acclaimed conductors, composers and musicians. It has toured more than 70 countries and regions, actively engaging in cultural exchanges and building friendships.

     The first concert by the China Broadcasting Chinese Orchestra will be held at 8pm on October 24 at the Concert Hall of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Tickets are priced at $200, $280, $360 and $440. The second concert will be held at 8pm on October 25 at the Auditorium of the Tsuen Wan Town Hall. Tickets are priced at $200, $260, $320 and $380. They are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2268 7321 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/music/programs_1559.html.

     A pre-concert talk entitled "The Audible Peng Xiuwen" (in Cantonese) will be held at 6.45pm on October 24 at Level 4 Foyer, Auditoria Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. The speaker will be Dr Jim Chang. Admission is free, with limited seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.

     The LCSD presents the Great Music 2023 from September to November. Various internationally acclaimed musicians and ensembles will come to Hong Kong to perform an array of exciting and diversified music programmes. For more details, please visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/music/groups_1576.html.

]]><![CDATA[SDO provides emergency assistance to Shek O residents]]>https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400279.htmhttps://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202309/14/P2023091400279.htmThu, 14 Sep 2023 10:46:00 +0800
     The Southern District Office (SDO) has mobilised the Care Teams of the Southern District to Shek O to provide assistance to their residents.

     For residents who have a pressing need to leave Shek O, the Government will assist them to leave urgently by the sea route. The Government has also disseminated the latest information to residents of Shek O through Care Teams and village representatives.

     The SDO's hotline is 2553 3130.]]>