HKETO New York celebrates Year of Dragon (with photos)

     The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (HKETONY) hosted its spring reception in New York on February 15 (New York time) to celebrate the Year of the Dragon.
 
     In welcoming some 400 guests from the city's political, business, finance, academic, as well as art and culture communities, the Director of the HKETONY, Ms Maisie Ho, noted the symbolic significance of the dragon, a mythical creature in Chinese culture.
 
     "The dragon represents strength, wisdom, and good fortune, symbolising power, excellence, and noble aspirations. The dragon is thought to bring positive energy and blessings for the year ahead. As we welcome the Year of the Dragon, Hong Kong is also nurturing fresh vitality and prosperity," Ms Ho said.
 
     "As the events capital of Asia for the world, Hong Kong is a compact and globally connected city that is a magnet for world-class mega events. In the first half of 2024 alone, more than 80 mega events would take place in Hong Kong, with notable ones such as the LIV Golf Hong Kong Tournament , Art Basel Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Sevens and much more. We welcome the world to join us in embracing the alluring metropolitan charm that cannot be found in any other place than Hong Kong," she added.
 
     Ms Ho also remarked on the series of remarkable achievements and collaborations between New York and Hong Kong in the past year – from business and finance seminars and luncheons, to the New Year's Eve countdown celebration at New York Times Square and cultural events such as the New York Asian Film Festival and the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival. 
 
     Looking ahead, she said that the HKETONY is more committed than ever to establishing and strengthening the friendship between the people on the East Coast of the United States (US) and Hong Kong.
 
     "Our long-standing bilateral trade relations with the US remain strong despite geopolitical tensions and economic headwinds. The US is Hong Kong's third largest trading partner, whereas Hong Kong is the second largest trading partner economy with which the US enjoys trade surplus. At last count, there are close to 1 300 US firms in Hong Kong with about half of them regional in scope. Our office will continue to work towards nurturing and rekindling old and new relationships, and strive for positive collaborations and understandings to foster a bond that transcends borders," she said.
 
     Ms Ho went on to introduce and thank the "Hong Kong family" in New York – Invest Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the Hong Kong Association of New York – for their unwavering partnership throughout the years in working towards the common goal of building closer ties between the two places.
 
     Supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, a special neon light display that resembles the unique dynamic night vibe of Hong Kong was featured at the reception. Suona artist Andrew Chan from Hong Kong was invited by the HKETONY to perform the renowned traditional Chinese piece "A Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix". A touch of Hong Kong magic was also added to the evening's celebration when a cocktail inspired by the famous Hong Kong dessert mango pomelo sago, and another using an award-winning craft gin distilled in Hong Kong, were served.