Tag Archives: China

     â€‹Following are the remarks by the newly appointed Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at a media session today (December 5):

Reporter: First of all, what are your job priorities in your tenure of two and a half years? And also, what are the most critical areas of work for which you want to see improvements in the Bureau? Given that you had no previous experience in the Bureau, how do you plan to use your strengths to serve the general public? Thank you.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism: There are several important areas in the portfolio of culture, sports and tourism. First of all, of course, in the National Fourteenth Five-Year Plan, it is clearly stated that Hong Kong is supported to develop into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. This will allow Hong Kong to fully leverage its strength in international creativity and experiences in external exchanges under the “one country, two systems”. This is obviously an important priority. Hong Kong has distinctive advantages in enjoying the strong support of the Motherland while being closely connected to the world. With the strong support from the Central Government, we must leave no stones unturned in achieving this important goal. 

     On sports, obviously the most important thing is the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park. And with this, the successful organisation of the 15th National Games. We will have to work very closely with Guangdong Province and Macao SAR (Special Administrative Region). This will allow athletes to shine, Hong Kong people to strengthen their national identity, and for visitors to have a great time in Hong Kong.

     For tourism, I am most grateful to the Central Government for the recently announced supporting measures for Hong Kong, including the new pair of adorable new pandas, and the resumption of the multiple entry policy for Shenzhen residents. Opportunities are everywhere. And so my priority would be to learn the latest development of my Bureau’s work, and then to meet old friends, make new friends. Have candid, useful, constructive discussions with all stakeholders, with a view of bringing culture, sports, and tourism to new heights.

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

  

     The Water Supplies Department (WSD) is holding the Water Save Carnival from today (December 5) until December 15 at the HarbourChill in Wan Chai. Under the theme “Save Water Today for a Sustainable Future”, the carnival aims to encourage members of the public to save water and work together to create a sustainable future without water shortages.
      
     In her opening speech, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the country has been providing Dongjiang water to Hong Kong since the 1960s to resolve Hong Kong’s water shortage and ensure the prosperity and stability of the city. Earlier this year, the Pearl River Delta Water Resources Allocation project was commissioned to divert water from the Xijiang River, enabling dual sources of water supply from the Dongjiang River and Xijiang River, and further safeguarding the security of Hong Kong’s water supply. To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang’s water supply to Hong Kong next year, the Development Bureau (DEVB) and the WSD will hold a series of events to deepen the public’s understanding of the history of Dongjiang’s water supply and the country’s support provided to Hong Kong to overcome water supply challenges.
      
     Ms Linn added that the DEVB and the WSD are implementing the Total Water Management Strategy with an emphasis on containing the growth of water demand and exploiting new water resources. The WSD will strengthen water conservation through public education, adding that the Water Intelligent Network will be enhanced to reduce water mains leakages. Also, the WSD will exploit new water resources by developing desalination and expanding the use of lower-grade water.
      
     Delivering his welcoming remarks, the Director of Water Supplies, Mr Roger Wong, said everyone needs to face water shortages. Hong Kong’s average daily water consumption per person rose to 150 litres during the pandemic. The consumption is 50 per cent higher than that recommended by the World Health Organization (i.e. 50 to 100 litres). As such, the WSD continues to promote water conservation through different publicity events with a view to appeal to the community to work together to save water.
      
     The opening ceremony featured celebrities participating in interactive games with the mascot, Water Save Dave. They shared valuable tips on everyday water-saving practices with the audience and sang the theme song “Droplet is Love” alongside the Droplet Boy Band to promote cherishing water resources.
      
     Other officiating guests attending the event today included Legislative Council members, Mr Lau Kwok-fan and Mr Chu Kwok-keung; the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Water Supplies, Professor Joseph Kwan; the Chairman of the Hong Kong Aided Primary School Heads Association, Ms Kathy Chung; and the Chairman’s Representative of the Subsidised Primary School Council Mr Ma Chung-tsun.
      
     The carnival features a variety of activities, including water conservation workshops, interactive games, and Water Save Dave meet-and-greet sessions, etc. A giant crystal droplet is set up on-site, allowing the public to step inside for photos. All activities at the carnival are free of charge. Some of the activities require pre-registration. Members of the public are welcome to join. Details are available on the thematic webpage.

            

     Hong Kong Customs earlier detected four cases of cigarette smuggling in Kwai Chung and, upon follow-up investigation, raided an illicit cigarette packaging and storage centre in Sheung Shui on December 3. A total of about 12.3 million suspected illicit cigarettes and about 2 000 kilograms of suspected duty-not-paid manufactured tobacco with a total estimated market value of about $69 million and a duty potential of about $49 million were seized.
      
     Customs in the past few months detected four cases of exporting smuggled cigarettes at the same logistics centre in Kwai Chung. A total of about 4.8 million suspected illicit cigarettes and about 2 000kg of suspected duty-not-paid manufactured tobacco were seized in several batches of goods destined for Australia.
      
     After a follow-up investigation, Customs on December 3 took action and raided a metal warehouse in Sheung Shui, seizing 7.5 million suspected illicit cigarettes and a large batch of packaging tools and dismantling an illicit cigarette packaging and storage centre. During the operation, Customs officers arrested three men, aged between 41 and 75, who were suspected to be connected with the case. They comprised a driver and two packers.
      
     Initial investigations revealed that the syndicate used remote places to store illicit cigarettes. After repackaging and mixed with some lamps and clothes as disguise, the illicit cigarettes were transported to the logistics centre concerned in Kwai Chung and planned to be shipped to Australia for profit.
      
     Investigations of the cases are ongoing, and the three arrested men were released on bail pending further investigation.
      
     Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis, and step up enforcement actions to combat cross-boundary illicit cigarettes activities. 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 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/).

    

     Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Belt and Road Forum 2024 – Digital Economy & Payment Settlement today (December 5):
 
Regina (Co-Chair of the Maritime Silk Road Society, Mrs Regina Ip), Joseph (Chairman of the Silk Road Economic Development Research Center, Mr Joseph Chan), Chairman Lam (Chairman of the Board of Governors of Hong Kong Chu Hai College, Mr Lam Kwong-siu), Consuls-general, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good afternoon. It is my great pleasure to speak at the Belt and Road Forum 2024 on the theme of “Digital Economy & Payment Settlement”, an invaluable platform for us to exchange insights and explore how we can drive digital transformation and foster deeper collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative.
 
     Since its introduction by President Xi in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative has transformed global connectivity, bridging communities across continents through infrastructure development, trade, finance, and cultural exchanges. Over the past decade, it has delivered tangible benefits to economies worldwide, fostering unity, enhancing global collaboration, and contributing significantly to the creation of a shared future for humanity.
 
     Hong Kong has long been an active participant in and beneficiary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Our strength lies in our role as a global connector – a hub where the East meets the West. As the Initiative continues to deepen, Hong Kong is well positioned to leverage our strategic advantages as an international centre for finance, trade, shipping, and professional services. Our city is committed to unlocking new opportunities and driving growth across Belt and Road economies, businesses, and communities.
 
     Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys a unique dual advantage: access to China’s vast market while maintaining global connectivity. This framework allows Hong Kong to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” in the Belt and Road Initiative. With world-class infrastructure, robust professional services, and a transparent regulatory environment, Hong Kong provides the critical support needed to facilitate trade and enhance Belt and Road projects. Ranked third globally and first in Asia in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), Hong Kong is undoubtedly a pivotal player in realising the visionary goals of the Belt and Road Initiative.
 
     As the Initiative evolves, so does the role of technology. Digitalisation has become a driving force behind modern economic transformation, and Hong Kong is always embracing this wave of innovation. According to the latest GFCI, Hong Kong is ranked among the top 10 fintech hubs worldwide, underscoring the seamless integration of technology into our financial markets. Technologies such as AI, big data analytics, blockchain, and distributed ledger systems are not only powering our economy but are also reshaping how businesses operate and collaborate across borders.
 
     Our fintech sector is thriving, with over 1 100 fintech companies operating in Hong Kong. These companies span a wide range of fields, including mobile payments, cross-boundary wealth management, AI-powered financial consultancy, and regulatory technology. Additionally, Hong Kong has become a magnet for Web3 talent and investment, with over 280 companies in virtual asset exchanges, blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity, and payment systems establishing their presence here. These developments indicate that Hong Kong is well prepared to lead as an advanced digital economy.
 
     We are adopting a multipronged approach to ensure sustained progress by working closely with financial regulators, industry players, and academia to enhance our financial infrastructure, nurture fintech talent, and strengthen partnerships with the Mainland and Belt and Road economies. For instance, our regulator is actively collaborating with central banks in Belt and Road countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE (United Arab Emirates), and Thailand, on the mBridge project to explore CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency) applications.
 
     Another example of collaboration is more at the retail level, which is our collaboration and partnership with the Bank of Thailand, which launched a Faster Payment System x PromptPay Link in December 2023. This initiative enables visitors from both places to conduct safe, efficient, and seamless electronic payments, further demonstrating how Hong Kong’s expertise in payment infrastructure supports the Belt and Road vision.
 
     To further position Hong Kong as a leader in the digital economy, we issued a Policy Statement on the Development of Virtual Assets in Hong Kong in October 2022, outlining our vision and regulatory approach. Following this, we introduced a licensing regime for virtual asset service providers in June 2023. To date, we have issued three licenses, with more approvals expected in the near future. These efforts highlight our commitment to fostering innovation while maintaining a well-regulated and transparent environment.
 
     The integration of digital technologies into Belt and Road economies is accelerating, driving efficiency, connectivity, and growth. Advances in payment settlement systems, along with the adoption of AI and blockchain, are transforming financial services and unlocking new opportunities for collaboration. As a leader in finance and technology, Hong Kong plays a pivotal role in this digital revolution. To foster a sustainable and trustworthy market environment, we also issued the Policy Statement on Responsible Application of Artificial Intelligence in Financial Market at the Hong Kong FinTech Week in late October, providing clear guidance for financial institutions to adopt AI responsibly while promoting innovation, transparency, and public trust.
 
     The Belt and Road Initiative is more than just a platform for infrastructure and trade – it is a vision for global connectivity and shared prosperity. As we integrate digital innovation into this framework, the opportunities for economic transformation and collaboration are boundless.
 
     From providing world-class financial and professional services to advancing the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, Hong Kong always stands ready to contribute to the continued success of the Belt and Road Initiative. I encourage all of you to seize these emerging opportunities, foster meaningful partnerships, and work together to build a more interconnected, inclusive, and prosperous future for all. Thank you.

        

     Following reports of a cluster of infections of a disease of temporarily unknown cause in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) said today (December 5) that it had taken the initiative to seek further information from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the DRC health authorities.
      
     According to the information announced by the DRC health authorities, since late October, 79 deaths due to a disease of still unknown cause have been recorded in a district in Kwango province, and more than 300 people have been infected. Most of the patients were aged above 15 and suffered from fever, headache, runny nose, cough, breathing difficulty and anaemia.
      
     “Under the current mechanism, Hong Kong has been equipped with the ability to detect infections of unknown cause and emerging infectious diseases at boundary control points and hospitals. On the immigration level, the DH has been conducting temperature screening for arrivals at all boundary control points. Those who are found to have a fever will be assessed and transferred to public hospitals for medical examination as appropriate. Upon noticing that a disease of temporarily unknown cause in the DRC, the DH has immediately tried to collect the latest information from various channels to conduct risk assessment and formulate appropriate preventive and control measures,” a spokesman for the CHP said.

     There are currently no direct flights between the DRC and Hong Kong. The CHP has learned from the trade that travellers coming to Hong Kong from the DRC may generally choose transit hubs in Africa to Hong Kong, including Johannesburg in South Africa and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. In light of the disease of temporarily unknown cause in the DRC, the CHP has, as a precautionary measure, immediately stepped up health screenings at the airport for passengers on all flights arriving in Hong Kong from the above-mentioned transit hubs. Port Health staff have been arranged to carry out temperature checks for travellers at the relevant flight gates, conduct medical assessments for symptomatic travellers and refer suspected cases of infections with public health significance to hospitals for medical examination.
      
     “Members of the public who plan to go to the DRC should be vigilant and pay attention to personal and environmental hygiene at all times, and avoid visiting crowded places and having contact with sick persons. Upon returning to Hong Kong, one should seek medical treatment as soon as possible if they feel unwell and take the initiative to inform their doctors of their relevant travel history,” he added.
      
     Since October, the DH has not received any reports of people or travellers arriving in Hong Kong from the DRC suffering from unknown diseases.
      
     “The DH will continue to closely monitor the situation in the DRC and WHO’s related information, and take appropriate preventive and control measures based on risk assessment to protect public health,” the spokesman said. read more