2006 - 2010

The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Council Member Mr. Albert Ip met with Ambassador Noor during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Lechervy during his visit in Hong Kong.

Since its inception in 2006, the Heart of Gold Awards honors annually Hong Kong artists and corporations that have made worthy contributions to sustainable developments in the community. The Better Hong Kong Foundation, Ming Pao Weekly and the Peace and Development Foundation are the three founding organizers. The presentation ceremony of this year’s Awards was successfully held on 15 November 2010 at the Happy Valley Raceourse. Recipients of this year’s Awards are: – Artist or Artistic Group                   Ms. Sammi Cheng Sau-Man – Corporation & Business Entities      Cathay Pacific Airways Limited (L to R) Mr. C K Yeung (General Manager Corporate Communication of Cathy Pacific), Ms. Karen Tang (Executive Director of the Foundation), Ms. Elsa Leung (Corp Comm Manager – Public Relations of Cathy Pacific), Mr. Tang Rui (Spokesman of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC in HK), Ms. Kathy Chiu and Ms. Betty da Silva (Directors of Peace and Development Foundation) and Dr. Roy Chung (Council Member of the Foundation) The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang presenting the award to Mr. Wallace Kwok (Ms. Sammi Cheng’s agent), on the left is Ms. Betty da Silva (Director of PFD) Ms. Quince Chong, Director Corporate Affairs of Cathy Pacific receiving the award from Mr. Terence Tung, Chief Executive Officer of One Media Group (left) and Dr. Roy Chung, Council Member of the Foundation

The Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Joseph Yu and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with guests Prof. Victor Sit, Director and Chair Professor of Advanced Institute for Contemporary China Studies, Hong Kong Baptist University, and Prof. Zhao Xinshu, Dean of School of Communication, Hong Kong Baptist University, met with Prof. Montbrial during his visit in Hong Kong.

Organised by the South China Media Ltd’s CAPITAL Magazine, the CAPITAL Outstanding Green Excellence Awards 2010 was to recognize the achievements of Hong Kong corporate on green management and served as benchmarks for other corporate in their continuous pursuit for the best environmental achievement in the coming years. The Better Hong Kong Foundation was the supporting organization of the award. The Awards Presentation Ceremony was successfully held on 9 November 2010. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung was one of the award presenters. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (right) presenting the award Group photo of guests and award recipients

The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. David Fong, Mr. Albert Ip and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with guests Mr. K C Kwok, Former Government Economist for the HKSAR Government and Honorary Senior Research Fellow of School of Economics & Finance, University of Hong Kong, and Dr. Yifan Hu, Managing Director/Chief Economist of CITIC Securities International met with Assistant Secretary Lago during her visit in Hong Kong. Meeting with U.S. Treasury’s Assistant Secretary Ms. Marisa Lago (4th left)

Every year after the delivery of Policy Address, the Chief Executive attends the joint business community luncheon where he talks to the Hong Kong business community and elaborates his policy address as well as the initiatives put forth by the HKSAR Government in the year ahead. On 3 November 2010, the Foundation’s Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. W F Leung and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Philip Ma and Ms. Diana Chou; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon. Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu (left) and Mr. Philip Ma (L to R) Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms. Diana Chou and Ms. Winnie Ng

Please refer to the Chinese report. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Peter Lam (L) welcomes Ambassador Song Zhe (R) on behalf of the Foundation (L to R)Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Philip Ma, Dr. Gerald Chow, Ambassador Song Zhe, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Peter Lam, Mr. Joseph Yu, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Karen Tang and Mr. Wang Xining

The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. Lau Ming-wai and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Lau during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation did not miss the chance to witness the great success of the World Expo in Shanghai. On 22 October 2010, with assistance of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office and the consulate offices in Hong Kong, the Foundation delegation toured 12 of the most popular country pavilions in one day. The delegation comprised of Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu with his wife and daughter; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo with his wife, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Philip Ma; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow; and invited guest Mr. Patrick Ma, Director & General Manager, Tai Sang Bank Ltd.   Pavilions visited: – Belgium-EU Pavilion – China Pavilion – French Pavilion – German Pavilion – Hong Kong Pavilion – Israel Pavilion – Italian Pavilion – Japan Pavilion – Macau Pavilion – Saudi Arabia Pavilion – Swiss Pavilion – United Kingdom Pavilion (L to R) Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Thomas Woo and Mrs. Woo, Mr. Patrick Ma, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Dr. Roy Chung, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and his family, Ms. Karen Tang and Mr. Chen Wei Inside the Italian Pavilion Lunch at the Belgian EU Pavilion

The Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, organized the forum on “Economic and Development Cooperation between Hong Kong and Shanghai after the World Expo” on 21 October 2010 in Shanghai, to further promote collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the fourth forum that is jointly organized every year by the three organizations. It was supported by the Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation. Around 80 experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the forum. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Philip Ma; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow also attended the forum. (L to R) Prof. Victor Sit, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Ling Kar-kan, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Kenji Gyoten The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan giving an opening remarks Guests at the Opening Ceremony: Prof. Zuo Xuejin (2nd left), Mr. Ronnie Chan (3rd left), Mr. Li Liangyuan (middle) and Ms. Karen Tang (1st right)

Overview In an effort to enhance the understanding of American media on China and Hong Kong, since 1996 the Foundation has invited 6 to 8 American journalists each year to visit China and Hong Kong. The Foundation sponsored and organized their trip. With the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC, the program enables the journalists to meet with senior central government officials in Beijing and local municipal officials in one of the second or third tier cities in China. The Foundation also organizes meetings with key industry and business players, academic and research institutions and media people to broaden the participants’ network other than providing them an overview of the cities they visited. This year, the Foundation, in association with the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA) and the East-West Center launched the first China-U.S. Journalists Exchange program, as an expansion of the original Hong Kong Journalism Fellows program by adding the visit of the China journalists to the U.S. Beijing With the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foundation organized the study tour to China and Hong Kong with the first stop in Beijing. On 11 September 2010, the delegation started their journey in China. To kick-off, sightseeing tour was organized the following day. The delegation was given an opportunity to get a feel for the capital of ancient and modern China. They were amazed and fascinated by the historic and the state-of-the-art buildings as well as the capital’s rapid development. Invited by the Foundation, Mr. Feng Gang, Director of the National Economic Research Institute joined the welcome dinner on 12 September 2010 and shared his insightful views on China’s current economic development, the opportunities and challenges with the journalists. At the meeting with the Ministry of Commerce, China-U.S. trade policy and relation, RMB exchange rate, etc were the hot questions that the journalists asked in the discussion. The journalists also exchanged views with representatives from the Ministry of Health on food safety and health care reform issues of both countries. The group also visited the China Institute of International Studies where Dr. Qu Xing, President shared his views on China-U.S. relation and China’s role in the international community. Meeting with Mr. Lin Guijun, Vice President of University of International Business & Economics and the interaction with their teachers and students were impressive to the journalists. The group visited the Foton Moto Group to understand more about the development of automotive industry in China. They also visited the joint venture project of the Foton Moto Group and the U.S. company, Cummins. To learn more about the prospects and future development of China’s Internet and search engine industry, the group visited the headquarters of Baidu and met with its Senior VP for Operations Mr. Haoyu Shen. During their stay in Beijing, the delegation also met with Mr. Lu Kang, Deputy Director General of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, and Mr. Hong Lei, Counselor of the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs respectively. Moreover, the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing hosted a luncheon for the group and explained the role of the Hong Kong Government’s Offices in Beijing and in other parts of the Mainland. Chengdu On 15 September 2010, the group arrived in Chengdu. The group first visited the Sichuan Provincial Office for West China Development to learn more about the overall development and challenges of Sichuan. The meeting with Mr. Xie Ruiwu, Vice Mayor of Chengdu also provided useful information to the journalists on the current situation and future planning of Chengdu. To show their hospitality, a welcome dinner was hosted by the Deputy Director General of Sichuan Provincial Office of Foreign Affairs for the group. Since the Wenchuan earthquake, Sichuan Province is committed to the reconstruction projects. The group visited the earthquake relics in Hanwang Town where the journalists were stunned by the huge and massive destruction made by the earthquake. On the other hand, the group was deeply moved to see the strength and courage of the local people when visiting Mian Zhu Hua village, Hong Kong Red Cross Deyang Rehabilitation, Prosthetic and Orthotic Center, Deyang No. 1 Primary School and DEC Factory Hospital. At the end of the journey in Chengdu, the group didn’t miss the chance to visit the adorable pandas in the Giant Panda Protection Zone in Ya’an City. Hong Kong On 19 September 2010, the delegation arrived in Hong Kong. As an international financial center, the recovery of Hong Kong’s economy after the global financial crisis was still a hot issue for the journalists. Meetings with Mr. John Tsang, Financial Secretary; Mr. Romnesh Lamba, Head of Market Development Division of the Hong Kong Stock Exchanges and Clearing Ltd; and Mr. K C Kwok, Former Government Economist and Honorary Senior Research Fellow of University of Hong Kong provided with them with first-hand information about Hong Kong’s status as an international finance center. In fact, logistics industry is also well developed in Hong Kong. Ranked as top airport in the world, the Hong Kong International Airport provides excellent service to Asia region and the whole world. The group was pleased to learn more about the competitive edges and challenges of aviation industry of Hong Kong from Mr. Stanley Hui, Chief Executive Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong. The group also met with professionals from Hong Kong film industry including Mr. Peter Lam, Trustee of the Foundation and Chairman of Lai Sun Development Co Ltd and Mr. Wellington Fung, Secretary-General of Hong Kong Film Development Council, who shared their views on the future development directions of Hong Kong film industry. Mr. Zhang Yongxi, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong briefed the delegation on the relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland and the responsibilities of his office in dealing with external affairs for Hong Kong. The group also visited the Office of the Former Chief Executive where Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, the first Chief Executive of the HKSAR and now the Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, shared his views on the developments of Hong Kong as well as those in the Mainland. In addition, meetings with Ambassador Stephen Young, American Consul-General, and Mr. Jim Thompson, Founder and Chairman of The Crown Worldwide Group and Former Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, provided a good platform for the journalists to learn more about the interests of Americans in Hong Kong. The delegation enjoyed very much the luncheon hosted by Mr. C Y Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council of the HKSAR and the opportunity to discuss with its Council Members Prof. Anthony Cheung, Prof. Lawrence Lau and Ms. Anna Wu on various issues in Hong Kong. Another luncheon hosted by Mr. Barry Cheung, Chairman of the Urban Renewal Authority was also informative and enjoyable. The Pawn and the re-developed of old buildings nearby were good examples of efforts made towards building a sustainable Hong Kong. Before leaving Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a dinner for the group on 21 September 2010. The journalists not only met Foundation members but also guests from the local business sector, academia and media. Honolulu On 22 September 2010, all Chinese and American journalists met in the East-West Center in Honolulu to report on their experiences and to exchange opinions on how media coverage of each country can be improved. By having direct dialogue with the local authorities and communities in different areas and to see the developments by themselves, the U.S. journalists gain a better understanding of the current situation and future development of Hong Kong and Mainland China. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang expressed her gratitude to the co-organizers and supporting organizations for their support and was grateful to all the participants for their active participation and cooperation to make the trip a success.  List of U.S. Journalists: – Mr. Jeffrey Chu, Articles Editor, Fast Company – Mr. Michael Freedman, Senior Editor, Newsweek – Ms. Erica Grieder, Southwest Correspondent, The Economist – Ms. Pia Lopez, Associate Editor, Sacramento Bee – Mr. Doyle McManus, Washington Columnist, Los Angeles Time – Ms. Leslie Norton, Asia Editor, Barron’s Magazine – Mr. John Schoen, Senior Producer, msnbc.com Detailed Itinerary Beijing 11 Sept (Sat) – Fellows arrive in Beijing 12 Sept (Sun) – Breakfast Briefing at the hotel – Beijing Tour – Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square – Welcome Dinner hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation    Guests: Mr. Fan Gang, Director, National Economic Research Institute and Mr. Fang Xinjian, Deputy Chief, America and Oceania Affairs Division, International Liaison Department, All-China Journalists Association 13 Sept (Mon) – Visit Foton Moto Group: Mr. Zhao Jingguang, Vice President and Spokesman of Foton; Mr. Wang Shuguang, Chief Public Relations Officer – Meetings and Luncheon hosted by Mr. Thomas Tso, Director of the HKSAR Government Office in Beijing – Meeting with the University of International Business & Economics: Mr. Lin Guijun, Vice President of UIBE; Department of International Cooperation and Exchanges; School of International Trade and Economics; School of International Studies; The Business School – Meeting with Mr. Lu Kang, Deputy Director General, Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Dinner hosted by Counselor Hong Lei, Information Department of MFA 14 Sept (Tue) – Meeting with Ministry of Commerce: Mr. He Ning, Director General of North American and Oceanian Affairs Department, Mr. Li Rongcan, Director General of Policy Planning Department and Ms. Qiu Lixin, Deputy Director General of Foreign Investment Department – Meeting with Dr. Qu Xing, President, China Institute of International Studies – Meeting and Luncheon hosted by the All-China Journalists Association – Meeting with the Ministry of Health – Visit the headquarters of Baidu and meeting with Senior VP for Operations Mr. Haoyu Shen 15 Sept (Wed) – Leave Beijing for Chengdu Chengdu 16 Sept (Thu) – Meeting with Sichuan Provincial Office for West China Development – Lunch hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation – Meeting with Mr. Xie Ruiwu, Vice Mayor of Chengdu – Visit Chengdu High-tech Zone – Dinner hosted by Deputy Director General of Sichuan Provincial Office of Foreign Affairs 17 Sept (Fri) – Visit to Deyang City: 1) visit earthquake relics in Hanwang Town; 2) visit Mian Zhu Hua village (New Year painting workshop); 3) visit Hong Kong Red Cross rehabilitation, prosthetic and orthotic center); 4) visit Deyang No. 1 primary school; and 5) visit DEC factory hospital – Dinner hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation (Hotpot) 18 Sept (Sat) – Visit Giant Panda Protection Zone in Ya’an City and meet with the administrator in charge 19 Sept (Sun) – Leave for Hong Kong Hong Kong 20 Sept (Mon) – Breakfast meeting with the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd: Mr. Romnesh Lamba, Head of Market Development Division and Ms. Lorraine Chan, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications – Meeting with Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first former Chief Executive of HKSAR – Luncheon hosted by Mr. Barry Cheung, Chairman of Urban Renewal Authority – Meeting with Mr. Stanley Hui, Chief Executive Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong 21 Sept (Tue) – Breakfast Meeting Hosted by Mr. Jim Thompson, Founder and Chairman of The Crown Worldwide Group and Former Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong    Guest: Mr. K C Kwok, Former Government Economist and Honorary Senior Research Fellow of University of Hong Kong – Meeting with Mr. Zhang Yongxi, Deputy Commissioner of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong – Luncheon hosted by Mr. C Y Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council of HKSAR with Exco members – Prof. Anthony Cheung, Prof. Lawrence Lau and Ms. Anna Wu – Meeting with Mr. John Tsang, Financial Secretary – Meeting with Ambassador Stephen Young, American Consul-General – Meeting with professionals from Hong Kong film industry: Mr. Peter Lam, Trustee of the Better Hong Kong Foundation and Chairman of Lai Sun Development Co Ltd; Mr. Wellington Fung, Secretary-General of Hong Kong Film Development Council; Mr. John Chong, Chief Executive Officer of Media Asia Group; Ms. Sharon Cheung, Senior Vice President of eSun Holdings Ltd – Dinner hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation 22 Sept (Wed) – Leave for Honolulu, Hawaii Honolulu 23 Sept (Thu) – Welcome and Introductions by Amb. Raymond Burghardt, Director, East-West Seminars, East-West Center and Ms. Susan Kreifels, Media Programs Coordinator, East-West Center – China’s Political Economy by  Dr. Christopher McNally, Fellow, Politics, Governance and Security Studies, Research Program, East-West Center – Roundtable Discussion with China Experts from the U.S. Pacific Command – U.S.-China Relations by Amb. Raymond Burghardt, Director of Seminars, East-West Center – Welcome Reception 24 Sept (Fri) – China in Retrospect: American Fellows’ review of visits to Beijing, Chengdu and Hong Kong in China – What Was New, What Was Old and Lingering Questions – United States in Retrospect: Chinese Fellows’ review of visits to Washington D.C. and Los Angeles, CA – What Was New, What Was Old and Lingering Questions – Reflect on Study Tour and Colloquium on News Reporting: Chinese and American Fellows discuss how they found their home countries reported on and commented on in their host countries and reasons why they found it good or deficient; results of conversations with host country journalists they met in their travels; recommendations – journalist-to-journalist – on how reporting of China and the United States may be improved – Introduction to EWC Media Services, Mr. Derek Ferrar, Media Relations Specialist, External Affairs – Introduction to EWC Alumni Services, Mr. Gordon Ring, Director, Associates Office, East-West Center – Evaluation of Program 25 Sept (Sat) – Depart for home List of Chinese Journalists: – Mr. Zhu Shouchen, Executive Secretary, ACJA – Mr. Chang Fawu, Editor-in-Chief, Henan Daily Group – Mr. Guo Yueling, Director General, Channel 11, Xinjiang TV – Mr. Li Wenhai, President, Handan Daily – Mr. Shi Quangen, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Shanghai Jiefang Daily Group – Mr. Zong Chunqi, Senior Editor, Beijing Daily Group – Mr. Fang Xinjian, Deputy Chief, America & Oceania Affairs Division, International Liaison Department, ACJA During their visit in the U.S., the Chinese journalists met with government officials, think tanks, community and business leaders, educators, local journalists, and others to gain insight on diverse issues and understand more about the general views from the U.S. interlocutors on the relationship between China and the U.S. Meeting with Ministry of Commerce Meeting with Deputy Mayor of Chengdu Meeting with Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first former Chief Executive of HKSAR

Please refer to the Chinese report. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. W F Leung (L) and Ambassador Zhang Qiyue (R) (L to R) Mr. Lin Tao, Ms. Chen Xiaoling, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. W F Leung, Ambassador Zhang Qiyue, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Karen Tang and Mr. Song Ronghua

Hosted by the Salzburg Global Seminar and the Salzburg Academy on Media & Global Change and sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, a group of distinguished journalism deans, faculties and students from Hong Kong, the Mainland China, Argentina, Beirut, Chile, Mexico, Slovakia, Uganda, the UK and the U.S gathered in Salzburg from 30 July – 2 August 2010 to discuss how higher education in journalism could meet the challenges and opportunities that local, regional and global media pose to news and communication in the 21st century. During the seminar, students from different countries attended lectures providing by media professionals and scholars from around the globe. List of delegates from Hong Kong: – Ms. Karen Tang    Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation – Prof. Clement So   School Director, School of Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Prof. Leung Tin-wai   Head of Department, Department of Journalism & Communication, Hong Kong Shue Yan University – Prof. Zhao Xinshu   Chair Professor & Dean, School of Communication, Hong Kong Baptist University List of delegates from Mainland China: – Prof. Li Xiguang   Tsinghua University, Southwest University of Politics and Law – Prof. Cheng Manli    Deputy Dean, School of Journalism and Communication, Peking University – Mr. Da Yuanguang   Shanghai University – Mr. Guo Xiaoke   Tsinghua University – Prof. Jiang Xiaoli    Dean, College of Literature and Media, Sichuan University – Prof. Li Pei    Dean, School of Journalism and Communication, Southwest University of Politics and Law – Mr. Liu Juan    Southwest University of Politics and Law – Prof. Ma Shengrong    Dean, College of Literature and Media, Chongqing University – Prof. Qi Ming    Dean, Department of Journalism and Communication, China Youth Political Science Academy For more infomation, please visit the seminar’s webiste: http://salzburgdeans.wordpress.com/ . Journalism educators attending the seminar The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang exchanging views with Mr. Stephen Salyer, President of the Salzburg Global Seminar

Please refer to the Chinese report. Commissioner Lu Xinhua wishes the study tour a great success Mr. Chen Baotian, Vice Chairman of Jiangsu Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference gave his warm welcome to the study tour Interaction with students from the High School Affiliated to Nanjing Normal University Visit to Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center Photo with Haibao, mascot of the Shanghai Expo Visit to Hong Kong Pavilion

Please refer to the Chinese report. The Final Guests from the organiser, supporting organisations and sponsors The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan presenting the Best Spokesman Award to the winner from Ying Wa College Group photo after the contest

The 9th International Forum on Urban Competitiveness (“The Forum”) was successfully held from 24 – 25 June 2010 in Nanjing Purple Palace. Initiated by the Global Urban Competitiveness Project Team (GUCP), this year’s Forum was hosted by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and Nanjing Municipal People’s Government and supported by the Better Hong Kong Foundation (“Foundation”). The theme of this year’s Forum is “Technological Innovation: Enhance Urban Competitiveness”. Around 60 experts and scholars from China and overseas as well as senior officials from local governments have attended the Forum and exchanged their views. Mr. Ronnie Chan, Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation and the Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd chaired the roundtable discussion between leaders of best performing cities during which deputy mayors or senior officials from Guangzhou, Qingdao, Ningbo, Suzhou, Nanchang, Hefei, Nantong and Nanjing gathered to share their valuable experience on the planning of urban development. As the supporting organization, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was invited as one of the officiating guests at the opening and closing ceremony of the Forum. The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, and Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Albert Ip also attended the Forum. By the invitation of the Foundation, Mr. Chiu Liang Ching (Columnist of Ming Pao Weekly Magazine), Ms. Chloe Lai (Guangzhou Correspondent of South China Morning Post) and Mr. Simon Cox (Asia Economics Editor of The Economist) joined the Foundation’s delegation to Nanjing. The sharing of experts and scholars in the theme discussion session on enhancing urban competitiveness by scientific and technological innovation was most insightful and fruitful. The launching ceremony for the English edition of Global Urban Competitiveness Report by Prof. Ni Pengfei, the General Secretary of the GUCP and the Global Urban Competitiveness Report (2009-2010) were also the highlights of the Forum. Scholars from Australia, France, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, UK, US as well as China Mainland have shared their studies and research results on urban competitiveness with participants of the Forum. To welcome the delegates and to let them know more about the history of the city, the Nanjing Government arranged a tour to Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Ming City Walls. Since the inception of the Forum in 2004, this annual Forum has been successfully staged in Tsingtao, Ottawa, Chengdu, Seoul, Yangzhou, Mexico, Philadelphia and Naples respectively. The Foundation would like to congratulate the CASS and Nanjing Government for the success of this year’s Forum. Please click here to download the Global Urban Competitiveness Report (2009 – 2010) and the individual Urban Competitiveness Report of Brazil, Canada, China Mainland, Germany, India, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Russia, UK and US as well as the ranking of  2009-2010 Urban Comprehensive Competitiveness. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (5th left) taking a photo with leaders of the best performing cities after the rountable discussion, together with the Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu (2nd left), Council Members Mr. Albert Ip (1st left) and Mr. Thomas Woo (1st right) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (2nd right)

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) completed its annual delegation to the United States from 12 to 19 May this year. A press conference was held on 3 June 2010 to brief members of the local media about the main issues dealt with during their stay in the U.S. Members of the delegation also shared their observations and experiences gained from the trip. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman and Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd Mr. Ronnie Chan, members of this year’s delegation included three Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Vice Chairman & Executive Director of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd, Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd and Mr. Lau Ming Wai, Director of Chinese Estates Holdings Ltd, as well as the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. After introduced the delegates to the media, Ms. Karen Tang briefed the main purpose of the delegation which was to provide an annual update about Hong Kong’s present situation, to share our perspectives on the developments in China, and to exchange views with the interlocutors in the United States and gauge the temperature in the Beltway their views on the developments in Hong Kong, the Mainland China, U.S. and the China-US relationship. Mr. Ronnie Chan said the future of Hong Kong is certain under the humongous economic developments in China. The financial sector of Hong Kong will continue to thrive and play a significant role in the economic development of China. Mr. Chan also shared his views on the RMB valuation as it is a hot topic amongst the interlocutors in the U.S. Mr. Chan thought that the RMB might gradually appreciate and a wider range of exchange rate might be allowed. However, it will not be under the pressure of foreign country but rather because of the internal need for a more flexible and convertible currency in the long run. As agreed almost unanimously, the appreciation of RMB will not help narrow the trade deficit between the U.S. and China. Mr. Chan also expressed his confidence in the leadership of China and believed they would take appropriate measures to sustain the growth of the country while putting importance to a cordial China-US relationship. As a successful manufacturing industrialist with his own company set up in Hong Kong, Dr. Roy Chung used his experience as an example to illustrate the competitiveness of Hong Kong as it is a place where he could efficiently raise capital for the expansion of his company and easily draw talents from around the globe to form an international management team. He also added that its proximity to the Mainland provides Hong Kong with low cost labour and a huge potential internal market. As an international hub, Hong Kong facilitated the expansion of his company into the global market. Dr. Chung concurred that RMB is likely to appreciate gradually. However, it will not impair China’s economic development as China is dedicated to upgrade its industry and to develop its internal market. He thought that trade deficit between China and the U.S. is not a unilateral issue. It should be addressed by both countries. Ms. Winnie Ng commented that the meetings with leaders from the political and business sectors in U.S. during the mission were fruitful. With the strong economic growth and development, China is getting more attention from the world. Hong Kong with its special geographical advantage, its unique system of “One Country Two Systems” as well as its sound pillars is well positioned to capture the benefits in the course of the development of our nation and to continue to strive. The interlocutors in the U.S. recognized the competitiveness of Hong Kong which attributed to its unique administrative system. Mr. Lau Ming Wai commented that the Foundation’s delegation to the United States was a resounding success. “Through our dialogues with senior policymakers, think tanks, and other organizations, we learnt that the United States maintains a keen interest in Hong Kong. To them, Hong Kong has always been and continues to be a beacon of economic freedom and prosperity. Needless to say, China is at the forefront of everyone’s mind, especially in the midst of the Strategic and Economic Dialogue (S&ED) between the two countries. Hong Kong should continue to act as a bridge into China and be its showcase to the world. I am very pleased with the constructive dialogues that we have had in Washington, DC and I look forward to a similar trip next year.” Ms. Karen Tang said Hong Kong is in a good shape in the eyes of most U.S. interlocutors. There was not much concern over Hong Kong while the China-U.S. relation remained the key focus of our dialogues. The valuation of RMB and the indigenous innovation policy of China did create tension between the two countries. However, people are positive in the China-U.S. relationship and the direction that the U.S. Administration is driving at. Ms. Tang expressed her sincere gratitude to the delegates and all organisations visited for their support in making the delegation a great success. The Foundation would continue its dedication in enhancing greater international understanding between East and West by facilitating communications between Hong Kong, China and the international community. The Foundation would endeavour to organise this kind of visits for more exchanges and to promote better understanding to each other. (L to R) Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Karen Tang and Mr. Lau Ming Wai

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) completed its annual delegation to the United States from 12 to 19 May this year. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman and Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd Mr. Ronnie Chan, members of this year’s delegation included three Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Vice Chairman & Executive Director of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd, Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd and Mr. Lau Ming Wai, Director of Chinese Estates Holdings Ltd, as well as the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The main purpose of the delegation which was to provide an annual update about Hong Kong’s present situation, to share our perspectives on the developments in China, and to exchange views with the interlocutors in the United States and gauge the temperature in the Beltway their views on the developments in Hong Kong, the Mainland China, U.S. and the China-US relationship. The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of Treasury and National Security Council); the Legislative Branch (Senator Mitch McConnell (the Senate Republican Leader), Congressman and staffers); think tanks inside the Beltway (Brookings Institution, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, Peterson Institute for International Economics and US-Asia Institute); the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington DC; financial institutions (Morgan Stanley and HSBC); rating agencies (Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s) and think tank in New York (National Committee on US-China Relations); and media (The Nelson Report, the Wall Street Journal,  the Economist and the columnist of Forbes). During the mission in New York, Mr. Ronnie Chan gave a speech entitled “Is the Sky Really Falling in U.S. & China” at the luncheon hosted by the Museum of Chinese in America to share his views on the U.S.-China relation. By the invitation of the Columbia Business School, Mr. Chan gave another speech entitled “Economic Implications of the Property Market Boom in China and Hong Kong” at the Sir Gordon Wu Distinguished Speaker Forum where over hundred people attended. (To view the video of the speech, please visit http://www4.gsb.columbia.edu/chazen/events/wuspeakerseries.) A reception and dinner were hosted by the Hong Kong Association of New York where members of the delegation exchanged views with friends from the local Chinese business community. The delegation were invited to luncheons and dinners hosted by the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Li Baodong), the Embassy of PRC in the US (Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Xie Fung) and the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York (Deputy Consul General Dong Xiaojun). The Foundation would continue its dedication in enhancing greater international understanding between East and West by facilitating communications between Hong Kong, China and the international community. The Foundation would endeavour to organise this kind of visits for more exchanges and to promote better understanding to each other. Itinerary Washington D.C. 12 May 2010 (Wednesday)   Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office – Mr. Donald Tong, Hong Kong Commissioner, USA– Mr. Eddie Mak, Director-General   Brookings Institution – Dr. Richard C. Bush, Director, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies– Mr. Kenneth Lieberthal, Director, John L Thornton China Center, Foreign Policy   Carnegie Endowment for International Peace– Mr. Douglas Paal, Vice President for Studies– Mr. Yukon Huang, Senior Associate, Asia Program– Mr. Nathaniel Ahrens, Visiting Scholar– Mr. John Brandon, Director, International Relations, The Asia Foundation– Mr. Douglas Spelman, Deputy Director, Kissinger Institute on China and the United States, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars   Senator Mitch McConnell, the Senate Republican Leader   The Heritage Foundation – Dr. Edwin Feulner, President– Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center   U.S. Department of Treasury– Mr. David Loevinger, Executive Secretary and Senior Coordinator for China and the U.S. – China Strategic and Economic Dialogue– Mr. Robert Dohner, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia   13 May 2010 (Thursday)   Capitol Hill Breakfast Forum with Key Congressional Advisors– Mr. Benjamin Wu, President, US-Asia Institute– Mrs. Esther G. Kee, Co-Founder, US-Asia Institute– Mr. Robert Jordan, Vice President, US-Asia Institute– Ms. Mary Sue Bissell, Vice President and Executive Director, US-Asia Institute– The Honorable Patrick Mulloy, U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission– Mr. Wayne Morrison, Specialist in Asian Trade and Finance, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service– Dr. Michael Martin, Specialist in Asian Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service Peterson Institute for International Economics– Mr. Fred Bergsten, Director– Mr. Gary Hufbauer, Reginald Jones Senior Fellow– Mr. Jeffery J Schott, Senior Fellow   CATO Institute– Dr. William A. Niskanen, Chairman Emeritus and Distinguished Senior Economist– Mr. Ian Vasquez, Director Center for Global Liberty and Prosperity   The Nelson Report– Mr. Christopher Nelson, Senior Vice President & Editor    National Security Council– Mr. Jeffery Bader, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for East Asian Affairs   U.S. Department of State– Dr. Kurt Campbell, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian & Pacific Affairs– Mr. Joseph Donovan Jr, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs   14 May 2010 (Friday)      Bryan Cave LLP– Ms. Tovah LaDier, Counsel– Mr. Stephen A Court, Vice President, Government Affairs, Qualcomm   Mr. Nien Su, Republican Staff Director, Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and Global Environment (within the office of Hon. Donald Manzullo)   McLarty Associates– Ambassador John Negroponte, Vice Chairman (ex-Deputy Secretary of State)– Mr. Nelson Cunningham, Managing Director– Ambassador Thomas Hubbard, Senior Director   U.S. Department of Commerce– Ms. Michelle O’Neill, Deputy Under Secretary for International Trade– Mr. Alain de Sarran, Deputy Regional Director, Office of International Operations-East Asia Pacific– Mr. Steven Chan, Deputy Director, Office of the China Economic Area– Mr. Albert Ting, International Trade Specialist, Office of the China Economic Area The Cook Political Report– Mr. Charles Cook, Publisher 15 May 2010 (Saturday)      Luncheon Hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A– Minister & Deputy Chief of Mission Xie Feng– Mr. Zhang Ping, Minister Counselor (Congressional Affairs)– Mr. Ma Xinmin, Counselor– Mr. Wang Qing, First Secretary– Mr. Jun Shen, First Secretary  New York 17 May 2010 (Monday)   US-Asia Institute – New York– Mr. Marlon Young, Chairman– Mr. Norman Lau-Kee, Chairman Emeritus– Mr. Glenn Lau-Kee, Trustee   Moody’s– Mr. Steven Hess, Vice President – Senior Credit Officer, Sovereign Risk Group– Mr. Gabriel Torres, Vice President – Senior Analyst, Sovereign Risk Group– Ms. Naomi Richman, Senior Vice President and Team Leader, Sovereign Risk Group– Mr. Thomas Keller, Senior Managing Director, Global Public, Project and Infrastructure Finance   Luncheon Hosted by the Permanent Mission of P.R. China to the United Nations– Ambassador Li Baodong, China’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations– Mr. Li Kexin, Counsellor   Asia Society’s 2010 Diversity Leadership Forum   Reception and Dinner Hosted by the Hong Kong Association of New York   18 May 2010 (Tuesday)      Standard and Poor’s – Mr. David Wyss, Chief Economist, Managing Director– Mr. John Bilardello, Managing Director, Rating Services   The Museum of Chinese in America Speaking Luncheon: “Is the Sky Really Falling in US & China?” by Mr. Ronnie Chan   Forbes– Mr. Robert Lenzner, Columnist   The Wall Street Journal – Mr. Matthew Kaminski, Member, Editorial Board– Mr. Adrian Ho, Assistant Features Editor, Leisure & Arts   Dinner Hosted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York– Mr. Dong Xiaojun, Deputy Consul General– Mr. Zhang Haitao, Consul– Ms. Zhang Siqi 19 May 2010 (Wednesday)   National Committee on U.S. China Relations – Mr. Stephen Orlins, President   Morgan Stanley– Mr. Richard Berner, Managing Director, Co-Head of Global Economics and Chief U.S. Economist– Mr. David Lew, Vice President, Morgan Stanley– Mr. Norman Lau-Kee, Chairman Emeritus, US-Asia Institute   The Economist NY Bureau– Mr. Matthew Bishop, NY Bureau Chief and the Business Editor   Columbia Business School – The Sir Gordon Wu Distinguished Speaker Forum: “Economic Implications of the Property Market Boom in China and Hong Kong” by Mr. Ronnie Chan Bio of Delegates Mr. Ronnie C. ChanChairman, Hang Lung GroupExecutive Committee Chairman, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Mr. Ronnie C. Chan is the Chairman of Hang Lung Group Limited and its subsidiary Hang Lung Properties Limited. Both are publicly listed companies in Hong Kong, with the latter being a constituent stock of the Hang Seng Index. Founded in 1960, it has been expanding into mainland China since 1992. For the first half of 2010, Hang Lung Properties reported a net profit of US$2.35 billion. Following successes in Shanghai, from 2005 to 2009, Hang Lung has been investing US$5 billion and to build about eighteen world-class commercial complexes in several major Chinese cities, like Tianjin, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi and Dalian. Mr. Chan co-founded the Morningside group. In the past two decades, Morningside and its associates owned and managed companies focusing on manufacturing, public transport operations, outdoor advertising, media, healthcare, online game operators, high tech and biotech investments in mainland China, developmental capital investments in Southeast Asia, manufacturing and distribution in Europe, and service industries, biotech and other venture capital investments in North America. In Hong Kong and the mainland of China, Mr. Chan is Chairman of the Executive Committees of the One Country Two Systems Research Institute and of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Convenor of the Hong Kong Development Forum, a Vice President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Hong Kong, a Governing Board member of the China-United States Exchange Foundation, and an Advisor to the China Development Research Foundation of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China. He also founded and chairs the China Heritage Fund which restores cultural relics in China. He is a former government appointed Non-executive Director of The Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, the founding Chairman Emeritus of the Asia Business Council, and a former Chairman of the Hong Kong-United States Business Council. Internationally, Mr. Chan is a Vice Chairman of the Board of the Asia Society and Chairman of its Hong Kong Center, a founding Trustee of the African-Asian Society and a Director of the Board of the Peter G. Peterson Institute for International Economics. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the National Committee on United States-China Relations, the Committee of 100, and the Advisory Board of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Jakarta. Mr. Chan is a former director of Standard Chartered PLC and Motorola, Inc. He is also a former member of the governing boards of the World Economic Forum, East-West Center, Pacific Council on International Policy, Eisenhower Fellowships, and The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation. Mr. Chan is involved in many educational endeavors. He is a Court member of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, a Trustee of the University of Southern California, and a Governing Board member of the Indian School of Business. He serves on the President’s Council on International Activities at Yale University, the International Advisory Council of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University, the International Advisory Committee of The Pacific Basin Institute at Pomona College, and the International Advisory Committee of the Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies at Waseda University. He also co-chairs the International Advisory Board of The Culture and Civilization of China, a joint project of Yale University Press and China International Publishing Group. He is a former Co-Chair of the Advisory Committee of the Center for Real Estate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a former Brittingham Visiting Scholar at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Mr. Chan is a frequent speaker at international conferences and has published numerous articles in International Herald Tribune, Financial Times, Newsweek, Fortune, Asian Wall Street Journal, Far Eastern Economic Review and Japan Times. Mr. Chan holds an MBA from the University of Southern California and an honorary doctorate in social sciences from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. In 2004, he received the Asia Society Leadership Award for strengthening economic, cultural and political ties between China and the United States, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Southeast Asia. He also received the Highest Alumni Award of the University of Southern California in 2009. He is 60 years of age and resides in Hong Kong with his wife. They have two grown sons. Dr. Roy Chi Ping Chung JPGroup Vice Chairman and Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Company Limited (TTI)Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Dr Roy Chi Ping Chung JP, aged 57, is a co-founder of TTI. Dr Chung, previously the Group Managing Director since 1985, has been appointed as the Group Vice Chairman and Executive Director of the Company on April 18, 2007 and he is responsible for the corporate and business management of the Group. Dr Chung holds a Master of Science Degree in Engineering Business Management from the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree by the University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia in 2006. He was further awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2007. He was also appointed as Justice of Peace by the Hong Kong SAR Government effective on July 1, 2005 and won the Hong Kong Young Industrialists Award in 1997. Dr Chung is an active member of many social committees and associations. He is also highly dedicated to the advancement of the industry. He is currently the Vice-Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, the Chairman of Hong Kong Q-Mark Council, the member on Innovation and Technology Steering Committee of the Innovation & Technology Commission, HKSAR, the Vice-Chairman of The Hong Kong Standards & Testing Centre Limited and the Director of The Hong Kong Safety Institute Limited. He is the Court Chairman of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the Council member of University of Warwick, United Kingdom, the Vice-Chairman of Vocational Training Council, the Executive Committee Chairman of the Outward Bound Trust of Hong Kong Limited, the Executive Committee Chairman of the Boys’ and Girls’ Club Association of Hong Kong, and also a Member of Board of Directors of the Hong Kong Paediatric Foundation. He is the Founder of the Bright Future Charitable Foundation. Dr. Chung is also an Independent Non-executive Director of Kin Yat Holdings Limited.  Miss Winnie NGDirector, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co LtdCouncil Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Ms Winnie NG is Council Member of Better Hong Kong Foundation, Founder and Deputy Chairman of RoadShow Holdings, Director of Kowloon Motor Bus (“KMB”) and Transport International Holdings.  She won the Yazhou Zhoukan Young Chinese Entrepreneur Award in 2003, was named one of China’s One Hundred Outstanding Women Entrepreneurs and a Mason Fellow of Harvard University in 2006, and was the Caring Heart Award recipient in 2009. She successfully revamped and rejuvenated KMB’s image, and positioned KMB as a powerful out-of-home media sales tool in Hong Kong by raising the profiles of bus body, bus shelter, and in-bus advertising.  Her introduction of the brand new champagne gold bus livery revitalized and energized the more than 75 year-old brand.  She founded and spearheaded listing of RoadShow (stock code: 0888), which business model has been adopted by many companies in HK, China and over the world. Active in public service, she is Director of Bauhinia Foundation Research Centre; Director of HK Cyberport; Member of Equal Opportunities Commission; Member of Hong Kong Tourism Board; Director of HK Sports Institute; Executive Committee Member of HK Council of Social Service; Director of Agency for Volunteer Service; Hospital Governing Committee Member of Queen Mary Hospital and Tsan Yuk Hospital; Hospital Governing Committee Member of Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and Advisory Board Member of Habitat for Humanity China.  Ms Ng is also Vice Chairman of Council of China’s Foreign Trade, China Council for Promotion of International Trade and Vice Board Chairman of Council of World Market, Shanghai Foreign Economic Relation & Trade Commission. She holds an MBA degree from the University of Chicago and an MPA degree from Harvard University. Mr. Lau Ming-wai  Director, Chinese Estates Holdings LimitedCouncil Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Mr. Ming Wai Lau holds a Bachelor Degree of Laws from King’s College London, a Master Degree of Laws from The London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Laws from King’s College London, University of London. In 2000, he joined Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., London, as a financial analyst, responsible for analysis and evaluation of asset management and investment projects. Later, he worked in Longview Partners LP, London, as a financial analyst on hedge funds and analysis of the financial market. Mr. Lau is also a registered attorney in the State of New York since 2001 and a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) charterholder in 2004.  Mr. Ming Wai Lau is currently the Director of Chinese Estates Holdings Limited and has been with the Company since 2006. He is responsible for the daily operation of company business, planning and promotion of the Group Business Development, and overseeing the Group’s funds and investment strategies.  Besides daily business operation, Mr. Lau has also been active in public affairs and concerns about the development of China. Mr. Lau is currently a member of the Sichuan Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and a member of the Greater Pearl River Delta Business Council. In addition, Mr. Lau strongly supports the educational development of China. He is currently the Honorary Trustee of Peking University and Board of Director of The University of International Business and Economics. Mr. Lau spares no effort in contributing to the social and economic development of both Hong Kong and China. He is a member of the Committee on the Promotion of Civic Education, and vice chairman of the Hong Kong United Youth Association. For the promotion of tourism development in Hong Kong, Mr. Lau is a member of the Board of the Ocean Park Corporation, and a member of Hong Kong Trade Development Council – Infrastructure Development Advisory Committee.  Miss Karen TANGExecutive DirectorThe Better Hong Kong Foundation Miss Karen Tang was appointed as the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation on June 1, 2006.  Miss Tang holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science and a Master of Arts degree in Public Administration. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, she joined the Basic Law Consultative Committee of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the Administration Officer responsible for the secretarial work of the Sub-group on Political Structure. After completing the consultation work, she joined the Ming Pao Group, a Hong Kong based media group. During her tenure with the Group, she was appointed to a number of posts, including the Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Administration and Personnel Manager, Business Development Manager, Deputy General Manager of Magazines Division, and General Manager of Yazhou Zhoukan (a regional Chinese Asiaweek). Miss Tang continued to develop her career in the media and multimedia industries, and has served as Deputy General Manager of the Chinese Television Network, General Manager of the Hongkong Telecom IMS (Interactive Multimedia Services), Director of Multimedia Services and Director of E-commerce under the Hutchison Whampoa Group. She worked for the Tung Chee Hwa Election Office in 2001 as the Director of Administration Division, responsible for the coordination of the election campaign. Prior to joining the Foundation, she was the Director of Communications of the University of Hong Kong, and reported to the Vice-Chancellor. Miss Tang is now Council Member of the Lingnan University, Member of the Committee on Performing Arts, Council Member of the Hong Kong Macau Research Centre of the Shanghai Academy of Social Science, and Invest Guangzhou International Advisor. The Better Hong Kong Foundation US Delegation: (L to R) Mr. Lau Ming Wai (Council Member), Ms. Jimmie Chow (Communications Manager), Ms. Winnie Ng (Council Member), Mr. Ronnie Chan (Executive Committee Chairman), Dr. Roy Chung (Council Member) and Ms. Karen Tang (Executive Director)

The Press Conference of 2010 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) was held in Hong Kong on 27 April 2010. It is organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and co-organized by Center for City and Competitiveness, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, the Chinese University of Hong Kong. “The 2010 China Urban Competitiveness Report” project is led by Prof. Pengfei Ni in the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The urban competitiveness of 294 cities in mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau in 2009 is analyzed. The top 10 cities in overall urban competitiveness are: Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Kaohsiung, Dalian and Qingdao. Hong Kong is also ranked the 1st in the scale competitiveness, economic efficiency, industrial competitiveness and income competitiveness. Comparing with previous year, Hong Kong moved from the 2nd position to the top position in the scale competitiveness, economic efficiency and industrial competitiveness while income competitiveness remained at the top position. Hong Kong is ranked 4th in the development cost competitiveness, down from the top position in previous year. Comparing with rapidly growing cities in the mainland, Hong Kong is ranked 289th in the growth competitiveness, down from 288th in previous year. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms Karen Tang commented that “As a global city, Hong Kong will develop into a world class metropolis in the future. Hong Kong will grow by capitalizing the opportunities in the mainland China and beyond. It will also provide advanced services to Asian and the world. It will be the place hosting the headquarters of transnational corporations from Asia and the world. Hence, to realise the recommendations of improving the living environment, developing Hong Kong as an education hub, providing an effective industrial development strategy, being included in the 12th FYP as a world–class city in China, cooperating and coordinating with the Mainland cities, etc are the key to keeping Hong Kong as the forerunner in the globe.” (Please click here to download the ppt presentation of the report (Chinese only)) (L to R) Prof. Yue-man Yeung (Chinese University of Hong Kong), Ms. Karen Tang (the Foundation’s Executive Director), Prof. Pengfei Ni (Chinese Academy of Social Sciences) and Prof. Jianfa Shen (Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, CUHK) giving a brief introduction of the report to the media

On 26 April 2010, the Foundation sponsored the Keynote Dinner Address of the International Media Conference where Dr. Kurt Campbell, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, addressed to over 300 journalists and media experts from Asia, the Pacific and the U.S. who were participating in the conference from 25 – 28 April 2010 in Hong Kong. List of participants from the Foundation included Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Mr. W F Leung; Council Members Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Philip Ma; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Prof. Clement So and Prof. Joseph Chan of the Chinese University of Hong Kong; Prof. James Tang of the University of Hong Kong; Mr. Thomas Easton, Asia Business Editor of The Economist; and Mr. Chris Yeung, News Director of the Hong Kong Economic Journal. Dr. Kurt Campbell giving his speech entitled “American Engagement & Asia” The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan welcomes the journalists and media experts from overseas The Foundation’s members and guests joining the dinner: (L to R) Mr. Qiu Liben, Ms. Karen Tang, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. W F Leung, Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. Philip Ma, Prof. Clement So, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Joseph Chan

In March, Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, Spokesman and Director-General of the Information Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs visited Hong Kong. On 19 March 2010, the Foundation hosted a dinner for Mr. Ma where experts and scholars in the public relations field of Hong Kong were specially invited to join and exchange views with Mr. Ma on the public diplomacy policy of China. List of participants: Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, Spokesman and Director-General, Information Department – Mr. Song Ronghua, Spokesman, Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR – Mr. Zhang Xianghua, Vice Director, Information Department – Ms. Zhang Han, Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR The Better Hong Kong Foundation – Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director – Ms. Jimmie Chow, Communications Manager Senior communications and PR professionals of Hong Kong – Mr. Jeremy Lau, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications Group Corporate Affairs, Hutchison Whampoa Ltd – Ms. Maisie Shun Wah, General Manager, Group Public Affairs, Swire Pacific Ltd  – Mr. C F Kwan, Director, Corporate Affairs, New World Development Co Ltd – Ms. Margaret Ng, Director of Corporate Communications, Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd – Mr. C K Yeung, General Manager Corporate Communication, Cathy Pacific Airways Ltd – Mr. B C Lo, Vice President, Public Affairs, Hong Kong Disneyland – Ms. Heidi Kwan, Chairman, AsiaNet Communications Ltd – Mr. Spencer Chan, Senior Consultant/Partner, AsiaNet Communications Ltd – Mr. K Y Cheung, Principle Media Advisor, Chinese Communications (HK) Co – Ms. Katherine Ma, Director of Communications, External Relations Office, The University of Hong Kong – Dr. James Tang, Faculty of Social Sciences. The University of Hong Kong – Prof. Zhao Xinshu, Chair & Dean, School of Communication, Hong Kong Baptist University Mr. Ma Zhaoxu (front row, middle) meeting with senior communications and PR professionals of Hong Kong

The Honourable John Tsang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, delivered the 2010-2011 Budget Speech on 24 February 2010. On 12 March 2010, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Lau Ming-wai; Ms. Li Xuhua and Mr. Bill Mok, representatives of Trustees Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon and Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu respectively; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon and exchange views on the budget.   The Foundation joins the luncheon on Budget Speech every year (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Li Xuhua and Mr. Albert Ip (L to R) Mr. Lau Ming-wai, Ms. Luisa Tam and Ms. Judy Yu

On 10 March 2010, the Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a luncheon for about a hundred American Fulbright scholars and students who were attending the Fulbright China Research Forum 2010 in Hong Kong during 9 – 12 March 2009. Organized by the Hong Kong America Center, the Forum was an annual meeting of American Fulbright research scholars who were conducting research in Mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The Forum was sponsored by the Fulbright Program in China, the Foundation for Scholarly Exchange in Taiwan and U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong, and supported by 8 local universities. The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Albert Ip and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with invited guests Mr. Archie Tsim, Chief Financial Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd and Mr. Patrick Wong, Partner Corporate & Commercial of Johnson Stokes & Master as well as friends from the Junior Chamber International Hong Kong and Roundtable Institute & Network joined the luncheon to exchange views about the development of China and Hong Kong with the scholars. At the luncheon, invited speaker Mr. K C Kwok gave a speech on the overview of the economic developments in Hong Kong. Representative of the scholars thanking the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang for hosting the luncheon Mr. K C Kwok giving an overview of Hong Kong’s economic developments to the Fulbright scholars Mr. Archie Tsim sharing his views with the scholars Over a hundred of American Fulbright scholars and students attending the luncheon

At the beginning of each Chinese New Year, the Better Hong Kong Foundation always organizes a Spring Luncheon for the Foundation’s members, Consuls General and Chairmen of international chambers of commerce in Hong Kong.  This year’s luncheon was successfully held on 8 March 2010. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for over 40 guests. This year, the Foundation is honoured to have invited Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and First Former Chief Executive of HKSAR to address at the luncheon. The 3rd plenary session of the 11th CPPCC is being taken place in Beijing. Mr. Tung gave a brief account on the philosophy and emphasis of the work report given by the Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao at the Opening. In response to questions raised by participants, Mr Tung also shared his views on the Copenhagen conference, the China-U.S. relations, the European Union’s role; freedom of press in China, the “Hukou” system in China, the changing role of Hong Kong etc. Participants include: The Better Hong Kong Foundation Trustees 1. Mr. Ronnie Chan                 Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd 2. Mr. W F Leung                   Group Managing Director, Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Ltd 3. Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu    Chief Executive Officer, Far East Consortium International Ltd Council Members 4. Mr. Oscar Chow                 Executive Director, Chevalier International Holdings Ltd 5. Dr. Roy Chung                    Vice Chairman & Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd 6. Mr. Thomas Woo                Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd 7. Dato’ Dr. S J Wong             Founder, SBI E2-Capital Asia Ltd 8. Ms. Winnie Ng                    Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd 9. Dr. Gerald Chow                 Executive Director, Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd 10. Ms. Judy Yu                      President, Carsac Ltd 11. Mr. Joseph Yu                  Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies 12. Mr. Albert Ip                     Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd 13. Mr. Lau Ming Wai             Director, Chinese Estates Holdings Ltd Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang                       Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR 1. Mr. Yang Zigang                  Deputy Commissioner 2. Mr. Song Ronghua               Spokesman Consulate General in Hong Kong 1. Mr. Les Luck                             Consul General, Australian Consulate General 2. Mr. Michel Malherbe                 Consul General, Consulate General of Belgium 3. Mr. Andrew Seaton                   Consul General, British Consulate General 4. Ms. Doreen Steidle                    Consul General, Consulate General of Canada 5. Mr. Jaroslav Kanturek               Consul General, Consulate General of the Czech Republic 6. Mr. Jorgen Mollegaard               Consul General, Royal Danish Consulate General 7. Mr. Jean-Claude Bernard           French Trade Commissioner, Consulate General of France 8. Mr. Frank Burbach                    Consul General, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany 9. Mr. L D Ralte                             Consul General, Consulate General of India 10. Mr. Luca Fraticelli                    Consul, Consulate General of Italy 11. Mr. Shigekazu Sato                  Consul General, Consulate-General of Japan 12. Mr. Mohammad Al-Amiri         Vice Consul, Consulate General of Kuwait 13. Mr. Cheong Loon-Lai               Consul General, Consulate General of Malaysia 14. Mr. Robert Schuddeboom         Consul General, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands 15. Ms. Adele Bryant                      Consul General, New Zealand Consulate General 16. Mr. Przemyslaw M. Jenke         Acting Consul General, Consulate General of Republic of Poland 17. Mr. Manuel Carvalho                Consul General, Consulate General of Portugal 18. Mr. Hans J Roth                        Consul General, Consulate General of Switzerland 19. Mr. Jitti Suwannik                      Consul General, Royal Thai Consulate General 20. Mr. Mehmet Raif Karaca           Consul General, Consulate General of Turkey 21. Mr. Christopher Marut               Acting Consul General, US Consulate General 22. Mrs. Maria Castillo Fernandez   Head of Office, European Union International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong 1. Lord Edwin Hitti                    President & CEO, The Arab Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2. Mr. Clement Chan                 Chairman, Australian Chamber of Commerce 3. Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen              Chairman, Danish Chamber of Commerce 4. Mr. David Ogilvie                  Programme Director, European Chamber of Commerce 5. Mr. Nicholas Borit                 President, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry 6. Ms. Maryse Kraatz                Executive Director, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry 7. Mr. Santha Ram                     Executive Director, Indian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong 8. Mr. Rafael Aharoni                Chairman, Israeli Chamber of Commerce 9. Mr. Rhee Byung Wook          Chairman, Korean Chamber of Commerce 10. Mr. David Whitwam            Chairman, New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong 11. Dr. Derek Anthony              Board of Director, Norwegian Chamber of Commerce 12. Mr. Vincent Chow               Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of Commerce 13. Mr. Serge Fafalen                President, Swiss Chamber of Commerce Local Chamber of Commerce 1. Mr. Andrew Brandler            Chairman, Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Mr. C H Tung’s Office 1. Ms. Clarie Lo                       CEO, The China-United States Exchange Foundation 2. Ms. Vivien Tam                    Senior Personal Assistant, Mr. C H Tung’s Office The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu (middle) and Mr. Shigekazu Sato (CG of Japan)(right) and Mr. Cheong Loon Lai (CG of Malaysia) The Foundation Trustee Mr. W F Leung (middle) and Mrs. Maria Castillo Fernandez (Head of Office, EU) and Mr. Jorgen Mollegaard (CG of Denmark) The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ Dr. S J Wong (middle) and Mr. Jaroslav Kanturek (CG of Czech Republic) (left) and Mr. Robert Schuddeboom (CG of Netherlands) The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Judy Yu and Mr. Derek Anthony (Norwegian Chamber) (left) and Mr. Manuel Carvalho (CG od Portugal) The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Gerald Chow (middle) and Mr. Mehmet Raif Karaca (CG of Turkey) and Mr. Mohammad Al-Amiri (Vice Consul of Kuwait) The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Oscar Chow (R) and Mr. L D Ralte (CG of India) The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Lau Ming Wai (middle) and Mr.Andrew Seaton (CG of UK) (right) and Mr. Frank Burbach (CG of Germany) The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng and Lord Edwin Hitti (Arab Chamber) The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Albert Ip (left) and Dr. Gerald Chow (right) and Mr. Rafael Aharoni (Israeli Chamber) The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan giving a welcoming remark Mr. C H Tung sharing his views on the developments of China Over 50 guests joining the luncheon The Foundation’s Trustees Mr. Ronnie Chan (1st left), Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu (2nd right) and Mr. W F Leung(1st right) thanking Mr. C H Tung for sharing his wisdom with the Foundation’s members and guests

Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 44th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition was successfully concluded. The photography competition aims to encourage people to portray the future of Hong Kong from their perspective and arouse their awareness on the importance of local brands towards the future development of Hong Kong as well as to enhance their sense of belonging to the city. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 6 February 2010 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms Karen Tang was one of the judges of the competition. On behalf of the Foundation, Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow (back row, 2nd right) attending the prize presentation ceremony of the 44th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition and presenting the awards

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Council Member Dr. Roy Chung; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Prof. Zhu during his visit to Hong Kong.

To celebrate the Year of Tiger with the Foundation’s members and to strengthen our communication with our media friends, the Better Hong Kong Foundation held its annual spring luncheon and media gathering at the Dynasty Club on 2 February 2010.  The event was hosted by the Foundation’s Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng and chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan. Members of the Foundation including Trustees Mr. W F Leung, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Dato’ Dr. S J Wong, Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. David Fong, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Albert Ip; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon where they exchanged views on the future development of the Foundation as well as to welcome its new members. The media gathering that followed was well attended by some 40 journalists. The Foundation’s members and friends from the media enjoyed the sharing and good wishes for prosperity for 2010. Members attending the media gathering included:   Trustees –  Mr. Ronnie Chan                      Chairman, Hang Lung Group Ltd –  Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu          Chief Executive Officer, Far East Consortium International Ltd Council Members –  Dr. Roy Chung                          Vice Chairman & Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd –  Mr. Eric Leung                          Chief Executive Officer, Tao Heung Group Ltd –  Mr. Thomas Woo                     Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd –  Dato’ Dr. S J Wong                  Founder, SBI E2-Capital Asia Ltd                 –  Ms. Winnie Ng                          Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd –  Ms. Judy Yu                             President, Carsac Ltd –  Mr. Joseph Yu                          Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies –  Mr. Tony Choi                          Executive Director, Hong Kong Garment Mfg Co Ltd –  Mr. Albert Ip                             Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Pacific Asia) Ltd –  Ms. Karen Tang                         Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Members of the Better Hong Kong Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (front row, L to R) Mr. Eric Leung, Ms. Judy Yu, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Dr. Henry Cheng, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. David Fong, Mr. Thomas Woo and Ms. Karen Tang; (back row, L to R) Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. W F Leung, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Tony Choi, Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Li Xuhua and Dato’ Dr. S J Wong

The Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng and Ms. Judy Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Managing Partner of Omaha Capital China Mr. Charlie Shi met with Mr. Rodier during his visit to Hong Kong.

Hosted by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Prof. Timothy Tong, President of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University attend the Foundation’s luncheon on 14 January 2010. Prof. Tong shared with the Foundation’s members his vision of the future development of PolyU as well as the collaboration between the university and the community at the luncheon where he also exchanged views with the Foundation’s members so as to strengthen mutual understanding. Vice President (Marketing, Internationalisation and Advanced Executive Development) designate Prof. Judy Tsui, Director of Partnership Development Mr. Andrew Young and Director of Chinese Mainland Affairs Dr. Laura Lo of the PolyU as well as Executive Director of Li & Fung Ltd Mr. Spencer Fung also attended the luncheon. The Foundation’s members attending the luncheon included: – Mr. Ronnie Chan     Executive Committee Chairman / Chairman, Hang Lung Group Ltd – Mr. Peter Lam         Trustee / Chairman, Lai Sun Development Co Ltd – Ms. Li Xuhua           Representative of Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon / Special Assistant of Chia Tai Group – Dr. Roy Chung         Council Member / Vice Chairman & Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd – Mr. Thomas Woo    Council Member / Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd – Ms. Winnie Ng        Council Member / Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd – Dr. Gerald Chow     Council Member / Executive Director, Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd – Ms. Judy Yu            Council Member / President, Carsac Ltd – Mr. Joseph Yu         Council Member / Chairman, Roseville Group – Mr. David Fong       Council Member / Deputy Managing Director, Hip Shing Hong Group of Companies – Mr. Tony Choi         Council Member / Executive Director, Hong Kong Garment Mfg Co Ltd – Mr. Albert Ip           Council Member / Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Pacific Asia) Ltd – Ms. Margaret Ng     Council Member / Director of Corporate Communications, Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd – Ms. Karen Tang       Executive Director of the Foundation (L to R) Dr. Gerald Chow, Ms. Judy Yu, Prof. Timothy Tong (PolyU President), Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Peter Lam, Mr. Spencer Fung and Mr. Albert Ip Fruitful discussions were made at the luncheon Prof. Timothy Tong sharing his vision on the development of Hong Kong Polytechnic University

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Winnie Ng and Mr. Albert Ip together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with the delegates from the Global Interdependence Center during their visit to Hong Kong. Discussion with delegates from GIC

The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Dato’ Dr. S J Wong, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Albert Ip together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Goh Joon Seng during his visit to Hong Kong.

Jointly organized by the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the InnoAsia 09 was successfully held on 1 – 2 December 2009. The Better Hong Kong Foundation was one of the supporting organizations. The theme of this year’s conference focused on the sustainable innovation and technology. Topics related to sustainable city, building energy efficiency and alternative energy for transportation were discussed. The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Tony Choi, also the Park’s Board Member, and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the event. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang meeting with Prof. Timothy Tong (middle), President of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University at the conference The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang receiving the souvenir from Mr. Anthony Tan, CEO of HKSTP (right) and Prof. Alex Wai, Associate Vice President of PolyU

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Dato’ Dr. S J Wong, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Albert Ip together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Mark Medish during his visit to Hong Kong. Meeting with Mr. Mark Medish (1st row, middle)

Since its inception in 2006, the Heart of Gold Awards honors annually Hong Kong artists and corporations that have made worthy contributions to sustainable developments in the community. The Better Hong Kong Foundation, Ming Pao Weekly and the Peace and Development Foundation are the three founding organizers. The presentation ceremony of this year’s Awards was successfully held on 17 November 2009 at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Hotel. Recipients of this year’s Awards are: – Artist or Artistic Group                   Ms. Meg Lam Kin-Ming – Corporation & Business Entities      Peter KK Lee Care for Life Foundation Ms. Karen Tang (left), Executive Director of the Foundation and Mr. Terence Tung (right), Chief Executive Officer of One Media Group presenting the award to Mr. Andrew Wong on behalf of Mr. Peter Lee, Founder of the Peter KK Lee Care for Life Foundation Mr. Charles Brown, Co-Chair & Foundation Secretary of the Peace and Development Foundation presenting the award to Ms. Meg Lam The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo (middle), Dr. Roy Chung (3rd right) and Mr. Albert Ip (1st right); Prof. Paul Yip (2nd left) of University of Hong Kong, Mr. Andrew Wong (3rd left) and Mr. K C Lung (2nd left), Chief Editor of Mingpao Weekly The Foundation’s Council Members (L to R) Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Joseph Yu and Ms. Winnie Ng (2nd left), and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and Mr. K C Lung (1st right)

The Honourable Donald Tsang, Chief Executive of the HKSAR Government, delivered his policy address to the Legislative Council in October 2009. On 2 November 2009, members and guests of the Better Hong Kong Foundation attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon where Mr. Tsang talked to the Hong Kong business community and elaborated his policy address as well as the initiatives put forth by the HKSAR Government in the year ahead. They were Trustee Tri Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Dato’ Dr. S J Wong, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Albert Ip; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Bunny Chan and Prof. Richard Wong. (Front row, L to R) Mr. Joseph Yu, Prof. Richard Wong, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Mr. Bunny Chan (Back row, L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Kim Mak, Dato’ Dr. S J Wong, Mr. Albert Ip, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Thomas Woo and Ms. Li Xuhua

Organised by the South China Media Ltd’s CAPITAL Magazine, the CAPITAL Outstanding Green Excellence Awards 2009 was to recognize the achievements of Hong Kong corporate on green management and served as benchmarks for other corporate in their continuous pursuit for the best environmental achievement in the coming years. The Better Hong Kong Foundation was the supporting organization of the award. The Awards Presentation Ceremony was successfully held on 16 October 2009. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was one of the award presenters. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang presenting the award Group photo of guests and award recipients

Jointly organized by Prime Communications Ltd and the Hong Kong Institute of Directors, the Prime Awards for Corporate Social Responsibility 2009 was established in recognition for companies’ efforts and involvement in taking up corporate social responsibility. The Better Hong Kong Foundation was the supporting organization and Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation was a member of the panel of judges. Results of this year’s awards were announced at its presentation ceremony held on 29 October 2009. Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng represented the Foundation to present the award. And this year’s beneficiary organizations of the event were Agency for Volunteer Service, Against Child Abuse Ltd, the Hong Kong Association of Senior Citizen, Hong Kong Blind Union and Partners Education Foundation. The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng (L) presenting the award The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng (1st right, back row) attending the event on behalf of the Foundation

On 25 September 2009, the prize presentation ceremony of the 3rd Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was held at the Commissioner’s office. Commissioner Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Secretary for Education Mr. Michael Suen and the Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha were the guest of honour and, delivered speeches and presented trophies to winning teams. Over hundred guests including representatives from the supporting organizations and sponsors, i.e. Mingpao, Cable TV, Wen Wai Pao, CCTV, Sino United Publishing (Holdings) Ltd, Hong Kong Jockey Club and Hong Kong Disneyland as well as representatives from the 5 winning teams and the 15 shortlisted teams attended the event. Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Tony Choi together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also presented to support the event. On the occasion, the 5 winning teams have sent its representative to share with guests their experiences gained during the contest and the study tour to Beijing and Tianjin. Through the contest, they all agreed that their knowledge of the country and its diplomatic policies were enhanced and the invaluable experience gained would definitely benefit them to advance themselves for the betterment of Hong Kong and China in the future. After the ceremony, a celebration dinner was held at the Commissioner’s office. Representatives of the organizers, supporting organizations and sponsors as well as staffs enjoyed the dinner which concluded the hard work of the past 10 months. Milestones 16 December 2008      Launching Ceremony 14 February 2009        First Briefing 28 March 2009            First Round Competition 21 April 2009              Draw Lots Session and Tour at Commissioner’s Office 9 May 2009                 Semi-final 5 June 2009                 Training Day 19 June 2009               Prize Presentation Ceremony for the Public Group Contest 10 – 16 August 2009   Study Tour to Beijing & Tianjin by the 5 Winning Teams 25 September 2009      Prize Presentation Ceremony Details of the contest are also available at the following websites: The Foundation                    : www.betterhongkong.org The Commissioner’s Office  : quiz.fmcoprc.gov.hk/chn/ Mingpao                               : marketing.mingpao.com/foreign_affairs/index.cfm Group photo of guests and winning teams The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha congratulating the success of the contest At the celebration dinner: (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Kenneth Chen (Under Secretary for Education), Mr. Joseph Yu, Commissioner Lu Xinhua, Mr. Victor Cha and Ms. Winnie Ng

By the invitation of Mr. Thomas Dycus, the Foundation’s Council Members Dato’ Dr. S J Wong, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Albert Ip together with the Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with him and exchanged views on the prospects of American economy. Meeting with Mr. Thomas Dycus (middle)

In the wake of the global financial crisis and the increasing opportunity arose from the internationalization of Renminbi, the Better Hong Kong Foundation (the Foundation), Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (SCPPC) jointly organized the Forum on “Hong Kong and Shanghai: Collaborative Development of International Trade Center and the Internationalization of Renminbi” on 21 August 2009 in Shanghai, to promote further collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai and specifically on international trade. It was the third forum that jointly organized every year by the three organizations. It was supported by Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation. Around 200 experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the Forum. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with SCPPC Chairman Mr. Feng Guoqiang and SASS President Prof. Wang Ronghua officiated at the opening of the Forum. By the invitation of the Foundation, Ms. Margaret Ko, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive of Hang Seng Bank delivered a keynote speech entitled “Cross-border RMB Trade Settlement and Internationalization of RMB: Role of Hong Kong”. Other keynote speakers included Mr. Sha Hailin, Deputy Secretary General of Shanghai Municipal People’s Government and Chairman of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, and Mr. Andrew Yao, SCPPC member and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Van Shung Chong Holdings Ltd. To facilitate detail discussions, three sessions were followed. – “Impact of the global financial crisis on the international trade centers in Hong Kong and Shanghai and the tackling strategies”;– “Study of the policy structure for international trade centers and their business environment”; and – “Cooperation between Shanghai and Hong Kong on the promotion of the cross-border RMB trade settlement and the research of RMB internationalization”. Nine speakers were invited to share their views on the topics. They included:– Mr. Patrick Chan, Director of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs, Shanghai, the HKSAR Government;– Prof. Tuan Chyan and Prof. Linda Ng of Chinese University of Hong Kong;– Prof Zhang Hongming, Researcher of SASS, Councilor of Shanghai Municipal People’s Government and member of CPCC– Mr. Jacky Chung, Regional Director of Eastern & Central China, HKTDC– Mr. Tse Kwok-leung, Head of Economic Research, Bank of China (Hong Kong)– Mr. Dicky Yip, Executive Vice President of Bank of Communications– Mr. T C Kwan, Executive Director & Chief Executive of the Bank of East Asia (China) Ltd; and– Mr. He Liangliang, Deputy Director of Commentary Department, Phoenix TV Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation and Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, former Government Economist and Honorary Senior Research Fellow of University of Hong Kong were the moderators. Ms. Tang also chaired the concluding session of the Forum. Dr. Zuo Xuejin, Executive Vice-President of SASS made his remarks at the concluding session, by thanking the speakers and participants for sharing their insights, which will be submitted to the authorities in formulating relevant policies in the future. After the Forum, the Foundation hosted a dinner for the organizers and speakers. PowerPoint presentations of some speakers have been uploaded onto the Foundation’s website. (L to R)Mr. Sha Hailin, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Wu Youying, Mr. Feng Guoqin, Mr. Li Liangyuan, Mr. Wang Ronghua, Mr. Chen Haigang and Ms. Gao Meiqin (L to R) Mr. Tse Kwok-leung, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. K C Kwok and Dr. Wang Chunxin (L to R) Mr. K C Kwok, Mr. Ronnie Chan and Mr. Andrew Yao (L to R) Mr. Sha Hailin, Ms. Margaret Ko and Mr. Ronnie Chan Keynote Speech Session: (L to R) Moderator Prof. Zuo Xuejin and the three speakers Mr. Sha Hailin, Ms. Margaret Ko and Mr. Andrew Yao Ms. Karen Tang chaired the closing ceremony while Prof. Zuo Xuejin concluded the conference

The 5 winning teams of the 3rd HK Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest with a total of 45 members started their study tour by visiting Tianjin on 10 August 2009. During their stay in Tianjin, the group visited the Binhai New Area to learn about the planning of new urban development in Tianjin, and toured Tianjin Museum. On 12 August 2009, the study tour moved to Beijing where Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation joined the group to support the event. During the 4-day visit in Beijing, the group visited China Foreign Affairs University and Training Bureau of General Administration of Sport, and toured Olympic Venues like the “Bird’s Nest” and the “Water Cube” as well as tourist attractions like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. The highlight of the trip would be the meeting with Vice Foreign Minister Mr. He Yafei at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where they also had exchanges with leading officials of Department of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Affairs, Policy Planning Department and Information Department. On 16 August, the group returned to Hong Kong and received by Commissioner Lu Xinhua at the airport. After the study tour, students should have gained a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of China’s foreign affairs, national conditions as well as the history, development and culture of Beijing and Tianjin. Note: In view of the wide spread of H1N1 virus in the community and taking into consideration the health management issue, the Final was cancelled and the 5 teams were all named winning teams with no distinction, and the study tour to Pearl River Delta region has been replaced by book coupons. Visit the Bird’s Nest during the study tour to Beijing and Tianjin   Visit the China Foreign Affairs University   Students are thrilled to meet with Vice Foreign Minister Mr. He Yafei (7th left) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

OverviewSince 1996, the Better Hong Kong Foundation has been working with the US-based East-West Centre in organising the annual Hong Kong Journalism Fellowships program which is targeted at senior journalists from major U.S. media organisations. This year’s program included a 2-day seminar in Honolulu and a 12-day study tour to Beijing, Inner Mongolia and Hong Kong from 1 – 12 August 2009. Led by Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation, the delegation comprised 6 journalists from the United States and was accompanied by Ms. Sara Liu of the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Jimmie Chow, Communications Manager of the Foundation and Ms. Marilyn Li, Seminar Specialist of the East-West Center. Honolulu – BeijingBefore visiting China, a series of seminars on China and Hong Kong issues were arranged in Honolulu for the delegates. With the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foundation organized the study tour to China and Hong Kong with the first stop in Beijing. On 1 August 2009, the delegation started their journey in China. To kick-off, sightseeing tour was organized the following day. The delegation was given an opportunity to get a feel for the capital of ancient and modern China. They were amazed and fascinated by the historic and the state-of-the-art buildings as well as the capital’s rapid development. The delegation first visited the headquarters of Xinhua News Agency and the office of Xinhuanet to learn more about the operation of the media industry in China. We were honored to be received by Mr. Zhou Xisheng, Vice President of the Xinhua News Agency. Moreover, the delegation also met with Mr. Cai Mingzhao, Deputy Director of the State Council Information Office where the journalists were briefed on the overall development in China over the last 30 years. On the financial front, the delegation had a fruitful discussion with experts from the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce, led by Prof. Chen Wenjing, Vice President of the academy. The sustainable development of China depends much on the nurturing of young talent. In this regard, the delegation also visited the Guanghua School of Management of Peking University where Prof. Zhang Weiying, Dean of the school introduced the education system and shared his views on the competitiveness of Chinese students. Environmental protection was another hot topic for the journalists. The delegation was pleased to meet with Mr. Jia Feng, Deputy Director General of the Department of Communication and Education of the Ministry of Environmental Protection. The exchange of views and discussions on the environmental protection policies in China were conducted enthusiastically.   During their stay in Beijing, the delegation also met with Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, Spokesman and Director General of the Information Department, and Mr. Zheng Zeguang, Director General of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Moreover, the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing hosted a luncheon for the group and explained the role of the Hong Kong Government’s Offices in Beijing and in other parts of the Mainland. Inner MongoliaThe second part of the study tour included a 5-day program in Huhhot and Hailear, Inner Mongolia. Ms. Liu Juru, Vice Mayor of the People’s Municipal Government of Huhhot gave her warmest welcome to the delegation by hosting a dinner where she also briefed the delegation about the overall development of  Huhhot. Besides, a joint meeting was held with senior officials from various government departments in Inner Mongolia, including the Development and Reform Commission, Foreign Affairs Office, Ethnic Affairs Commission, Culture Department, Department of Commerce, Environmental Protection Department and the Tourism Bureau. The group also visited the Huitengxile wind power field. The journalists were especially interested in the success of making the wind power field a tourist attraction. The delegation was also excited to visit the production plants of the Yili Group. During the tour, Mr. Hu Liping, Executive Director of the Yili Group shared with the delegation information regarding production flows, safety measures, testing procedures and marketing strategies. The beauty of the nature in Inner Mongolia has earned international acclaim, which was echoed by the delegation. The delegation visited the Old Cow Crescent, a former strategic military place in ancient times. It is also the place where the Great Wall reached the Yellow River. The group did not miss the chance to visit the famous grasslands as well as the first national forest park in Hailera. On its last night in Inner Mongolia, the group enjoyed a fantastic outdoor performance of the life of Genghis Khan on the grasslands. Hong KongOn 9 August 2009, the delegation arrived in Hong Kong, the last stop of the study tour. As an international financial center, the recovery of Hong Kong’s economy after the global financial crisis was still a hot issue for the journalists. Meetings with Ms. Julia Leung, Undersecretary for Financial Services & the Treasury and Mr. Archie Tsim, Chief Financial Officer of the Hong Kong Stock Exchanges and Clearing Ltd provided with them with first-hand information about Hong Kong’s status as an international finance center. The group was grateful to have a meeting with Mr. Henry Tang, Chief Secretary for Administration. Mr. Tang shared his views with the delegation on the overall development of Hong Kong as well as recently discussed topics such as the integration and collaboration between Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region and the West Kowloon Cultural District. Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong briefed the delegation on the relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland and the responsibilities of his office in dealing with external affairs for Hong Kong. The group also visited the Office of the Former Chief Executive where Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, the first Chief Executive of the HKSAR and now the Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, shared his views on the developments of Hong Kong as well as those in the Mainland. In addition, meetings with Mr. Christopher Marut, Acting American Consul-General. and representatives from the American Chamber of Commerce provided a good platform for the journalists to learn more about the interests of Americans in Hong Kong. The delegation enjoyed very much the luncheon hosted by Mr. C Y Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council of the HKSAR and the opportunity to discuss with its Council Members Mrs. Laura Cha, Mr. Ronald Arculli, Mr. Marvin Cheung, Ms. Marjorie Yang and Mr. V Nee Yeh various issues in Hong Kong. Another luncheon hosted by Mr. Barry Cheung, Chairman of the Urban Renewal Authority was also informative and enjoyable. The Pawn and the re-developed of old buildings nearby were good examples of efforts made towards building a sustainable Hong Kong. To show the spectacular night scene of Hong Kong to the journalists, the Foundation organized a boat trip from Victoria Habour to Lamma Island where a delicious seafood dinner was arranged on 11 August 2009. The journalists not only met Foundation members but also guests from the local business sector, academia and media. Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Foundation together with Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Dato, S. J. Wong, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Albert Ip hosted the dinner as well as an open discussion on their thoughts on the developments of China and Hong Kong. Ms. Karen Tang, the Foundation’s Executive Director expressed her gratitude to the East-West Center and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their support and was grateful to all the participants for their active participation and cooperation to make the trip a success.  List of U.S. Journalists1) Mr. Charles Bennett, Reporter/Staff Writer, New York Post, New York, NY2) Ms. Vicki Curry, Producer, KCET-TV (PBS for southern and central California), Los Angeles, CA3) Mr. Rami Grunbaum, Deputy Business Editor, The Seattle Times, Seattle, WA4) Mr. David Klepper, State Government Reporter, The Kansas City Star, Kansas City, MO5) Mr. Daniel McGinn, Senior Articles Editor, Newsweek, Boston, MA6) Ms. Stacy Perman, Staff Writer, Business Week, New York, NY Detailed Itinerary Honolulu 28 Jul (Tue)– Welcome Dinner 29 Jul (Wed)– Welcome, Introduction and East-West Center Briefing by Ms. Susan Kreifels, Media Programs Coordinator, East-West Seminars, EWC– China-U.S. Security Issues and Taiwan Strait Updates by Dr. Denny Roy, Senior Fellow, Politics, Governance and Security, Research Program, EWC– The Development of China’s Automobile and Telecommunications Industries by Dr. Eric Harwit, Professor, Asian Studies, University of Hawaii  – Energy and the Global Economic Crisis by Dr. Fereidun Fesharaki, Senior Fellow, Research Program, EWC30 Jul (Thu)– East Asia Security Overview by r. Ralph Cossa, President, Pacific Forum Center for Strategic and International Studies– China’s Legal Environment by Dr. Alison W. Conner, Professor, William S. Richardson School of Law, University of Hawaii– Introduction to EWC Media Services by Ms. Karen Knudsen, Director, Office of External Affairs, EWC– Introduction to EWC Associates by Mr. Gordon Ring, Director, Associates Office, EWC31 Jul (Fri) Fellows leave for BeijingBeijing1 Aug (Sat)– Fellows arrive in Beijing2 Aug (Sun)– City sightseeing tour: Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City– Dinner hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation3 Aug (Mon)– Meeting with Mr. Zhou Xisheng, Vice President, Xinhua News Agency, and visit to Xinhuanet and Xinhua News Agency– Luncheon hosted by Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, Director-General of Information Department, MFA – Meeting with Mr. Jia Feng, Deputy Director General, Department of Communication and Education, Ministry of Environmental Protection – Meeting with Prof. Chen Wenjing, Vice President and Senior Economist, Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Commerce4 Aug (Tue)– Meeting with Prof. Zhang Weiying, Dean and Professor of Economics, Guanghua School of Management, Peking University– Meeting and Luncheon hosted by Mr. Thomas Tso, Director, Beijing Office of the HKSAR Government – Meeting with Mr. Cai Mingzhao, Deputy Director, State Council Information Office– Meeting with Mr. Zheng Zeguang Director General, Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, MFA5 Aug (Wed)– Leave for Inner Mongolia Autonomous RegionInner MongoliaHuhhot5 Aug (Wed)– Arrive Hohhot Prefecture, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region– Visit to Old Cow Crescent  6 Aug (Thu)– Visit Huitengxile Wind Power Field 7 Aug (Fri)– Joint meetings with Inner Mongolia officials (Foreign Affairs Office, Development and Reform Commission, Ethnic Affairs Commission, Culture Department, Department of Commerce, Environmental Protection Department and Tourism Bureau)– Visit to Yili Group– Dinner hosted by Ms. Liu Juru, Vice Mayor of the People’s Municipal Government of Huhhot 8 Aug (Sat)– Leave for Hailaer Hailaer8 Aug (Sat)– Arrive Hailaer– Visit National Forest Park and grassland– Watch an outdoor performance on the life of Genghis Khan 9 Aug (Sun)– Leave for Hong Kong Hong Kong10 Aug (Mon)– Breakfast meeting with the American Chamber of Commerce– Meeting with Ms. Julia Leung, Undersecretary for Financial Services & the Treasury – Lunch hosted by Mr. Barry Cheung, Chairman of Urban Renewal Authority – Meeting with Department of Justice– Meeting with Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first former Chief Executive of HKSAR 11 Aug (Tue)– Breakfast meeting with Mr. Archie Tsim, Chief Financial Officer and Ms. Lorraine Chan, Vice President, Corporate Communications Department of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd – Meeting with Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong– Lunch hosted by Mr. C Y Leung , Convenor of the Executive Council (Exco) of the HKSAR with Exco members – Mrs. Laura Cha, Mr. Ronald Arculli, Mr. Marvin Cheung, Ms. Marjorie Yang, Mr. V Nee Yeh – Meeting with Mr. Henry Tang, Chief Secretary for Administration – Meeting with Mr. Christopher Marut, Acting American Consul-General – Boating and Dinner hosted by Mr. Ronnie Chan, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman 12 Aug (Wed)– Free time Meeting with Mr. Zhou Xisheng, Vice President of Xinhua News Agency (5th right) Meeting with Mr. Cai Mingzhao, Deputy Director, State Council Information Office Dinner hosted by Ms. Liu Juru, Vice Mayor of the People’s Municipal Government of Huhhot (2nd left) Meeting with Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first former Chief Executive of HKSAR (4th right) Meeting with Mr. Henry Tang, Chief Secretary for Administration (middle)

With the release of the Outline of the Plan for the Reform and Development of the Pearl River Delta, strengthened cooperation within the region is believed to benefit the region, Hong Kong and the country as a whole. In view of this, the Better Hong Kong Foundation organized a delegation to Guangzhou on 16 – 17 July 2009, to explore opportunities for further cooperation within the region. The visit was supported by the Guangzhou Municipal Board for International Investment. During the 2-day trip, the delegation visited Zhujian New Town Central District, Tianhe Software Park Gaotang New Zone, the new Guangzhou railway terminus at Shibi, Nansha and Panyu Districts to learn more about the latest developments of the commercial, trade, technology and innovation, research and development activities in Guangzhou. Members of the delegation were impressed by the rapid developments of Guangzhou in recent years. They were interested in the future development plan of the city where numerous investment opportunities were provided. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, the delegation comprised: The Better Hong Kong Foundation– Dr. Roy Chung, Council Member   Vice Chairman & Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd – Mr. Thomas Woo, Council Member   Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd – Ms. Judy Yu, Council Member   President, Carsac Limited – Ms. Li Xuhua, Representative of Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon  Special Assistant, Chia Tai Group – Mr. Edmond Yew, Representative of Trustee Mr. Peter Lam   Senior Vice President, Lai Fung Holdings Ltd– Ms. Jimmie Chow, Communications Manager International Chambers of Commerce– Mr. David Whitwam, Chairman, The New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong  Executive Director, Mace Consulting Ltd– Ms. Vicky Wong, China Committee Member, The French Chamber of Commerce & Industry   Managing Consultant – Hong Kong & China, EPC Consulting Ltd Other Guests– Mr. K C Lung, Editor-in-Chief of Mingpao Weekly and Editorial Director of One Media Group– Mr. Kenneth Leung, Vice President – Corporate Affairs, Lai Sun Group– Mr. Clarence Ling, Director, Kwai Hung Group Detailed Itinerary16 July 2009– Visit Guangzhou Municipal Board for International Investment and have a brief introduction of new development and pillar industry in Guangzhou– Luncheon hosted by the Guangzhou Municipal Board for International Investment– Visit Zhujiang New Town Central Business District– Visit Taikoo Hui– Visit Tianhe Software Park Gaotang New Zone and Techpool Bio-Pharma Co Ltd– Dinner hosted by the Foundation 17 July 2009Visit Nansha District– Visit Toyota Automobile City– Visit Nansha IT park and Guangzhou HKUST Fok Ying Tung Research Institute– Luncheon hosted by People’s Government of Nansha District and have a brief introduction of the free trade port zone in NanshaVisit Panyu District– Visit Tian An Hi-tech Ecological Park– Visit the site of the new Guangzhou railway terminus– Visit the Startoon City Visit the office of the Guangzhou Municipal Board for International Investment A warm welcome by the Startoon City

The Better Hong Kong Foundation was pleased to have Mr. Xu Lin, Director General of the Department of Fiscal and Financial Affairs, National Development and Reform Commission invited to give a luncheon speech entitled “China’s Economic Stimulus Package” on 19 May 2009. Co-hosted by the Foundation and the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, the luncheon was well attended by over a hundred of guests. Before the speech, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation and Chairman of the Asia Society Hong Kong Center gave a warm welcome to Mr. Xu. In his presentation, Mr. Xu highlighted China’s policies on tackling the global financial crisis and the current economic situation in China.  The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. David Fong and Mr. Tony Choi, and the invited guest Managing Director of Home Swallows Ltd Mr. Frank Pak attended the event. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan giving his warmest welcome to Mr. Xu Lin Mr. Xu Lin giving the presentation on China’s Economic Stimulus Package The Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Judy Yu (1st left) and Mr. David Fong (1st right), Mr. Kenichi Sakamoto, Consul of Consulate-General of Japan (2nd left) and Ms. Patricia Chung, Economic Adviser of the European Union The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. David Fong (L) and Mr. Tony Choi (R), and Mr. Edward Leung, Chief Economist of the HKTDC (middle) Over a hundred of guests attending the luncheon Mr. Ronnie Chan thanking Mr. Xu Lin for his insightful speech

Report of the European Union Visitors Program — Visit to Brussels, 11 to 15 May 2009 By Karen TANGExecutive DirectorThe Better Hong Kong FoundationHong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China(15 June, 2009) I. IntroductionThe European Union Visitors Program (EUVP) is a very meaningful, professionally managed program. It has not only deepened my understanding of the European Union (EU), but also broadened my perspectives on global affairs, especially the multi-lateral relationships between China and EU member states. The one-to-one dialogues with the interlocutors, as well as interaction with people in Brussels in general, provided me an excellent opportunity to experience the spirit of embracement of diversity and collaboration. II. MeetingsAs the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, I was pleased to be introduced to people who were interested in the developments in China and Hong Kong, and in exploring collaboration and long term partnership with us. As mentioned in my Statement of Purpose for my visit, the establishment of the EU is of epoch-making significance. Its experience of collating and embracing the diversity among member states and to work together as an entity is worthwhile learning. I asked to understand the role of NGOs, think tanks and media in the decision making, consultation and communications process; and their relation with the European Commission and/or its sub-committees. Meetings were arranged and discussions were made possible in the following areas: A. European Union and Media & Communications– Mr. Ralph PINE, Editorial Coordinator of the Press Room Unit in the Directorate General for Communication of the European Parliament: Mr. Pine explained to me the structure of the EU, interaction with media, using of Internet and intranet to communicate among different units, the importance of neutrality on handling media enquiries and message articulation, their upcoming priority (raising the awareness and voting rate of the Parliament election), and demonstrating to me the election campaign videos and materials. – Mr. Klaus HULLMANN, Administrator responsible for Visits at the Committee of the Regions: Mr. Hullmann explained his scope of work and the importance of the consultative role of the Committee of the Regions and the implication of this participative process for the whole decision making process.     B. EU and China & Hong Kong– H.E. Mr. SONG Zhe, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union; Mr. WANG Yajun, Minister-Counsellor; Mr. Wang Xining, Counsellor of China’s Mission: The China’s Mission is playing an ever-increasing important role interacting with the EU. More dialogues between China and the EU will help build greater understanding, and thus more collaboration. Hong Kong can play a role to enhance such interaction and dialogue.       – Ms. Hinny LAM, Deputy Representative from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO); and Ms. Ada YEUNG: Hong Kong is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, its system and developments are comparatively familiar to people in the EU. The HKETO is very functional in facilitating understanding, especially on the latest developments on economy and trade as well as developments across the border in the Mainland.  – Mr. Vito BORRELLI, Programme Manager, Coordinator of Erasmus Mundus in the Unit for Cooperation and International Programmes in the Directorate General for Education and Culture of the European Commission: Mr. Borrelli shared with me the spirit and scope of the Programme. However, neither the universities in Hong Kong nor students in Hong Kong has been engaged in the Programme although many universities and students in China, especially those in Beijing and in Shanghai, are being engaged. Mr. Borrelli has been very kind to send a follow up email to Ms. Maria Castillo-Fernandez, Head of EU Commissioner’s Office in Hong Kong, and me. I hope that Hong Kong will be included in the program in the future.   – Ms. Andrea FENNESZ, Policy Desk Officer in the Unit for Trade Relations with the Far East in the Directorate General for Trade of the European Commission: Ms. Fennesz is familiar with trade in Hong Kong and that in the region but is watching closely the compliance of CEPA under the WTO principles. Although she had the opportunity to visit China, including Taiwan, she did not have the chance to visit Hong Kong. I hope she will visit Hong Kong on her next trip to China. – Mr. Asad BEG, Desk Officer of China and Mongolia, China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Mongolia in the Directorate General for External Relations in the European Commission: Though Mr. Beg is new to the post, he shared with me their latest Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for China 2007-2013 and Multi-Indicative Programme MIP 2007-2010. We shared our views on how cooperation and assistance could be offered in a more effective way by enhancing the understanding of both sides and by sharing the philosophy behind. – Mr. Francesco PRESUTTI, Administrator in the Unit for the Coordination of the Political and Security Committee in the Directorate General for External Economic Relations, Politico-Military Affairs of the Council of the European Union: Though the meeting with Mr. Presutti was brief, he was keen to know my view on the political and economic developments in Hong Kong and China. – Ms. Andrea SUBHAN, Administrator in the Directorate for External Relations of the European Economic and Social Committee: Ms. Subhan was about to depart for a trip to Hong Kong and China the day after our meeting. The EU Commissioner’s Office in Hong Kong had organized a round table meeting for the delegation during their visit in Hong Kong. I was able to give Ms. Subhan a brief orientation on the social and economic developments in Hong Kong. – Mr. Tim BODEN, Administrator in the Directorate for Inter-Parliamentary Delegations for non-European countries of the European Parliament: Mr. Boden has been in the position for several years. He met with several EUVP visitors from Hong Kong, Macau and China and has led several delegations to China. My impression was that the dialogues have been focusing on the few controversial political issues which did not facilitate true understanding and communication for both sides.  – Mr. Tom ROE, ASEM Counsellor, Asia Directorate, External Relations, European Commission: I arranged a meeting myself with Mr. Roe.  He is the ex-head of the EU Commissioner’s Office in HK. It was enlightening to learn of his role in facilitating better understanding of Asia in the EU. C. NGOs and Think Tanks– Mr. Jonathan HOLSLAG, Head of Research, Expert at the EU-China Academic Network (ECAN), Brussels Institute of Contemporary China Studies (BICCS): I arranged the meeting with Mr. Holslag via an introduction. Mr. Holslag has been very active in promoting academic dialogue and study on EU-China relations. While the subject itself is becoming more important and deserves more study, there is not much academic expertise on the subject in Brussels or in the EU. Both Mr. Holslag and I are exploring collaboration in promoting the subject studies to academia in Brussels and in the EU.   – Mr. Dick GUPWELL, Secretary General and Acting Director of the European Institute for Asian Studies – E.I.A.S.: Mr. Gupwell is an expert in India studies while his Singaporean colleague studies China. He was keen to know the work of the Better Hong Kong Foundation and would be pleased to explore collaboration. – Mr. Koen SEGERS of the Confucius Institute in Brussels: The Confucius Institute in Brussels is part of an international network of Confucius Institutes aimed at the diffusion and promotion of Chinese language and culture. It was co-founded by the Chinese Government, in partnership with the Belgium-China Association’s China Academy. I was introduced to two Chinese student interns Mr. XU Enhao and Ms. XUI Lian. They were keen to support the Institute not only to earn their academic credit but also to help promote Chinese culture. Although the location and the physical condition of the Institute are not favorable, more and more people are interested in learning about Chinese language and culture. D. Others — Belgian Federal Parliament– Mr. Jan DELTOUR, Director and Mr. John STEVENS, Adviser both of the Table Office of the House of Representatives of the Belgian Federal Parliament: The tour to the Belgian Parliament was impressive. I explained to the gentlemen the political system, election system and briefly the related chapter of the Basic Law in Hong Kong. We shared issues of some similarity that the Parliament in Belgium and the Legislative Council in Hong Kong were facing; and that the positioning of Belgium and of Hong Kong in a globalized economy was also of similar concern.   III. ConclusionsThe model of European Union is epoch-making and embraces diversity among member states. While allowing flexibility to individual members on certain issues, there are important issues centrally coordinated and decided upon and to which member states are obliged. With this, the EU as a whole has the highest global GDP and should have a comparable weight and strategic influence in the world economy. The European model of economic development, especially during the financial crisis, also proves to be more robust and should be studied.  As an increasingly important country and entity in the world, China and the EU should develop more dialogue and collaboration, not only among government organizations but also among the civic communities, on issues which should go beyond political subjects. The EU can be a good reference for China. Under the one country two systems and being a world city with East and West culture, Hong Kong can definitely play a role in facilitating communication and collaboration between China and the EU.  IV. ComplimentsLast but not the least, I would like to thank and congratulate the EUVP Secretariat for their professionalism and success in managing a very good program for me that was flexible and yet very carefully planned. The itinerary was rightly spaced with clear instructions and reminders. The hotel (Hotel SILKEN BERLAYMONT BRUSSELS, Boulevard Charlemagne, 11-19, 1000 Brussels) was comfortable and closely located to the meeting venues. If there is any room for improvement, I would suggest providing the participant a draft itinerary before departure for the best preparation.  I would like to take this opportunity to render my salutation and gratitude to Mr. Ed VAN KOOLWIJK, Head of the EUVP Secretariat and his team, especially Ms. Afërdita ERTEKIN-JAHJA, EUVP Programme Organiser, for their success and for their kind assistance in making my trip fruitful and enjoyable. — END — Meeting with H.E. Mr. Song Zhe, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union Meeting with Mr. Wang Yajun, Minister-Counsellor (right) and Mr. Wang Xining, Counsellor (left) of China’s Mission to the European Union

On 9 May 2009, the Semi-final was successfully held at the Hong Kong Baptist University Affiliated School Wong Kam Fai Secondary and Primary School. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Deputy Commissioner Yang Zigang and Spokesman Song Ronghua, and Mr. Benjamin Yung of the EBD were the judges of the competition. They were all impressed by the outstanding performance of the students who showed their extensive knowledge of the history of the PRC’s foreign affairs, Hong Kong-related foreign affairs, diplomatic etiquette as well as the latest developments in China and the world. Their well-composed performance and sober-minded analysis during the limited three minutes at the “simulations” session could have made you believe that they were real diplomats. After intense competition, 5 teams excelled in the Semi-final. They were (in alphabetic order): Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary SchoolCNEC Christian College Kwun Tong Maryknoll CollegeQueen’s CollegeShatin Pui Ying College. In August 2009, they would be invited to join a study tour to Beijing and Tianjin where they would meet diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, see tourist attractions in Beijing and experience the development in Beijing and Tianjin. And the remaining shortlisted 15 teams would join another study tour to Pearl River Delta region in October. The Semi-final of the 3rd Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest is held at the HKBU Affiliated School Wong Kam Fai Secondary and Primary School The scenario improvisation section is a challenge to the contestant Contestants taking group photo with the judges after the competition

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) organised its annual delegation to the United States from 23 to 29 April this year. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, members of this year’s delegation included guest speaker Mr. Antony Leung, Chairman of Greater China, the Blackstone Group (HK) Ltd and former Financial Secretary of HKSAR; and two Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd and Mr. Albert Ip, International Advisory Council Asia of Washington University, St. Louis. A press conference was held on 5 May 2009 to brief members of the local media about the main issues dealt with during their stay in the U.S. Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Antony Leung and Mr. Albert Ip shared their observations and experiences gained from the trip on the occasion. Ms. Karen Tang said, “The main purpose of the delegation was to provide an annual update about Hong Kong’s present situation, to share our perspectives on the developments in China, and to exchange views with the interlocutors in the United States and gauge the temperature in the Beltway their views on the developments in Hong Kong, China, U.S. and the China-US relationship especially under the new Obama administration.” Mr. Antony Leung said the interlocutors in U.S. basically understood and agreed that the proximity to China, low tax rate and simple tax regime, legal and regulatory systems that predictable and consistent, and accepted by international investors, freedom of information, safe and convenient place to life and work are fundamental competitive edges of Hong Kong. Regarding the announcement of Shanghai to be an international financial center in 2020, he expressed that with such a huge size of economy, it is sufficient for China to have more than one international financial center. The U.S. also has a few financial centers such as New York, Chicago and San Francisco. Being an international financial center, Hong Kong should further strengthen its existing advantages, strive to be the global offshore Renminbi center and regional center for derivatives, develop its business in Renminbi bonds as well as other well-regulated financial instruments. Hong Kong and Shanghai could achieve a win-win situation. However, to have a long-term and sustainable development, it is crucial for Hong Kong to attract and retain more talents around the world to work and live here. Moreover, Mr. Leung proactively explained to the U.S. that Hong Kong is not a “tax haven” and expressed our concerns about the possible rise of protectionism (no matter on trade, human resources, capital flow, etc) that may caused by further downturn of the world economy. The U.S. promised that they would keep a close watch on the development of these issues. Ms. Karen Tang concurred that there was not much concern over Hong Kong. People in the U.S. were more concerned of their local economic issues and how to better engage China, hence there was much more interest in knowing if and how China can maintain 8% GDP growth and the impact of its economic stimulus package. “However, we do share our belief that with the increasing importance of China as a global economic powerhouse, the proximity of Hong Kong to the Mainland and the strong support from the Central Authority to Hong Kong, Hong Kong definitely can benefit and can rebound faster.”, said Miss Tang. Overall, people are positive in the China-US relationship and the direction that the new U.S. Administration is driving at. Mr. Albert Ip emphasized the importance of the quality of human capital to the success of Hong Kong. He thought that it was crucial for university faculty members and students to have strong international skills and exposure, hence there should be more joint programs and exchanges arranged between universities in the U.S. and Hong Kong. He quoted the example of a joint program between Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Washington University in St. Louis. “The world is getting smaller, and there is much more interaction and interdependency”, said Mr. Ip. Universities in Hong Kong aim to get the best talents from the world, including the recently hired Chancellors at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Hong Kong Polytechnic University who came from the U.S., where they held important positions at prestigious universities before the appointments. Having leaders with western academic background and experience will further build on the reputation and quality of local universities in Hong Kong. Ms. Winnie Ng commented that the meetings with leaders from the political and business sectors in U.S. during the mission and the participation in activities of the Committee of 100 and Hong Kong-United State Business Council held concurrently in Washington D.C. have provided excellent platforms for ideas exchange and communications. She was gratified to see that the Foundation played a contributory role as a non-government diplomat to promote mutual understanding between Hong Kong, China and U.S. Around 20 journalists attending the press conference The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang giving a brief introduction on the delegation’s program (L to R) Mr. Antony Leung (Guest speaker of the delegation), Ms. Karen Tang (Executive Director of the Foundation) and Mr. Albert Ip (Council Member of the Foundation)

The Committee of 100’s (“C100”) conference served as a critical forum for the discussion of issues pertaining to U.S.-China relations and Chinese American progress. With a focus on the impact of China’s rising global influence, this year’s conference covered topics relevant to academic, business, and political communities around the country. The Better Hong Kong Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also participated in the conference which was held right after the Foundation’s U.S. delegation in Washington D.C. The Foundation’s Executive Chairman and member of the C100 Mr. Ronnie Chan was the moderator of the panel entitled “Impact of the Economic Crisis on China: A View from the Ground” at the conference. Photo at the conference’s gala dinner: (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Ronnie Chan and Ms. Winnie Ng

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) organised its annual delegation to the United States from 23 to 29 April this year. A press conference was also held on 5 May 2009 to brief members of the local media about the main issues dealt with during their stay in the U.S. Members of the delegation also shared their observations and experiences gained from the trip. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Director Miss Karen Tang, members of this year’s delegation included guest speaker Mr. Antony Leung, Chairman of Greater China, the Blackstone Group (HK) Ltd and former Financial Secretary of HKSAR; and two Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd and Mr. Albert Ip, International Advisory Council Asia of Washington University, St. Louis. The main purpose of the delegation was to provide an annual update about Hong Kong’s present situation, to share our perspectives on the developments in China, and to exchange views with the interlocutors in the United States and gauge the temperature in the Beltway their views on the developments in Hong Kong, China, U.S. and the China-US relationship especially under the new Obama administration.” The delegation visited financial institutions (Morgan Stanley and HSBC); rating agency (Standard & Poor’s) and think tanks in New York (National Committee on US-China Relations, Council on Foreign Affairs); the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration and National Security Council); the Legislative Branch (Senator, Congressman and staffers); think tanks inside the Beltway (Brookings Institution, CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, US-Asia Institute); and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington DC. The group met with the Senator Jim Webb, Member Senate of Foreign Relations Committee and the Congressman Rick Larsen, Co-Chair of U.S.-China Working Group to brief them on the recent developments in Hong Kong. During the mission in New York, Mr. Antony Leung gave a speech entitled “China and Hong Kong: Post Financial Tsunami” at the luncheon hosted by the Asia Society. Over hundred people attended. (The speech could be downloaded from the Foundation’s website.) In Washington D.C., Mr Leung made another speech at the Fund for American Studies, sharing his views on the China and Hong Kong’s Economic Outlook. Mr Leung is also Chair of the Panel on the session of “Working Towards Economic Recovery and International Balance” at the Harvard Conference – Power and Restraint: Perspectives on the U.S. and Chinese Relationship.  The delegation were invited to luncheons and dinners hosted by the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Zhang Yesui), the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York (Ambassador Peng Keyu), the Embassy of PRC in the US (Minister and DCM Xie Fung), and the Hong Kong-United States Business Council. The Foundation would continue its dedication in enhancing greater international understanding between East and West by facilitating communications between Hong Kong, China and the international community. The Foundation would endeavour to organise this kind of visits for more exchanges and to promote better understanding to each other. Itinerary New York 23 April 2009 (Thursday)    Morgan Stanley– Mr. Richard Berner, Managing Director, Co-Head of Global Economics and Chief U.S. Economist – Mr. David Lew, Vice President, Morgan Stanley     Asia Society Speaking Luncheon: “China and Hong Kong: Post Financial Tsunami” by Mr. Antony Leung “Hong Kong, the once thriving Asian economy is facing a number of challenges including a deep recession in the West, a slowdown in the Chinese economy, and a possible rivalry for its position as an international financial center from Shanghai. Will its hinterland, the mainland of China achieve 8% GDP growth in 2009? Will Shanghai take over Hong Kong’s position, now that the State Council of China has clearly defined Shanghai’s role as an international financial center? Antony Leung, a Senior Managing Director at the Blackstone Group, and former Financial Secretary of Hong Kong will give his view on these and other issues about Hong Kong and China.”    National Committee on U.S. China Relations – Mr. Stephen Orlins, President– Ms. Jan Berris, Vice President     30th Anniversary Gala of US-Asia Institute     24 April 2009 (Friday)        Standard and Poor’s – Mr. Paul Coughlin, Executive Managing Director of Corporate & Government Ratings– Mr. Michael Privitera, Vice President of Public Affairs – Ms. Beth Ann Bovino, Senior Economist     HSBC – Mr. Paul Lawrence, CEO, HSBC Bank USA– Mr. Marlon Young, CEO, HSBC Bank Americas– Mr. Jose-Luis Guerrero, Head of Global Markets, Americas– Mr. Lawrence Dyer, MD, US Interest Rate Strategist     Luncheon hosted by the Permanent Mission of P.R. China to the United Nations– Ambassador Zhang Yesui, China’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations – Mr. Li Kexin, Counsellor– Mr. Qi Qianjin, Counsellor, Chief of Division of Policy Analysis– Mr. Xu Jian, Councsellor, Deputy Chief of Division of Policy Analysis    Council on Foreign Affairs – Dr. Elizabeth Economy, Director of Asia Studies– Mr. Adam Segal, Fellow for China Studies     Dinner hosted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York– Ambassador Peng Keyu, Consul General– Mr. Zhang Haitao, Consul   Washington DC 27 April 2009 (Monday)    CATO Institute– Dr. William A. Niskanen, Chairman Emeritus and Distinguished Senior Economist     U.S. Department of State – Mr. David Shear, Director, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs– Ms. Amy Nicodemus, Foreign Affairs Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs    Luncheon hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A– Minister & DCM Xie Feng – Mr. Jia Xiudong, Counselor for Political Affairs– Ms. Fang Hong, First Secretary     The Heritage Foundation – Dr. Derek Scissors, Asia Economics Research Fellow– Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center – Mr. Nicholas Hamisevicz, Research Assistant, Asian Studies Center    Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office – Mr. Donald Tong, Hong Kong Commissioner, USA – Mr. Eddie Mak, Director-General    28 April 2009 (Tuesday)        Brookings Institution – Dr. Richard C. Bush, Director, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies– Mr. Kenneth Lieberthal, Visiting Fellow, John L Thornton China Center, Foreign Policy     National Security Council– Mr. Paul Haenle, Director for China, Taiwan and Mongolia, East Asian Affairs     Harvard Conference – Power and Restraint: Perspectives on the US and Chinese Relationship– Mr. Antony Leung, Chair of “Working Towards Economic Recovery and International Balance” panel 29 April 2009 (Wednesday)    Capitol Hill Breakfast Forum with Key Congressional advisors– Mr. Benjamin Wu, President, US-Asia Institute– Ms. Mary Sue Bissell, Vice President and Executive Director, US-Asia Institute– Mr. Robert Jordan, Senior Advisor, US-Asia Institute– Mr. Wayne Morrison, Specialist in Asian Trade and Finance, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service– Mr. Andrew Green, Legislative Assistant, Senator Jeff Merkley– Mr. Jonathan Weston, Senior Policy Advisor, Congressman Brian Higgins– Mr. Kenneth Nealy, Senior Appropriations Counsel, Congresswoman Barbara Lee– Mr. Andrew Christianson, Legislative Assistant, Congressman Erik Paulsen    U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration – Ms. Michelle O’Neill, Acting Under Secretary for International Trade– Ms. Nicole Melcher, Director, Office of the China Economic Area– Mr. Thomas Dycus, International Trade Specialist, Office of the China Economic Area    The Fund for American Studies Speaking Luncheon: “China and Hong Kong: Post Financial Tsunami” by Mr. Antony Leung – Mr. Roger Ream, President– Mr. Edward J. Turner, Vice President, Development– Ms. Michelle Jeffress, Director, International Programs– Ms. Kelsey Strampe, Manager, Asia Institute for Political Economy    The Honorable Jim Webb, U.S. Senator, Member Senate Foreign Relations Committee     The Honorable Rick Larsen, U.S. Congressman, Co-Chair, U.S.-China Working Group    Welcoming Reception and Dinner of Hong Kong-United States Business Council  Bio of Delegates Mr. Antony LEUNGChairman, Greater ChinaThe Blackstone Group (HK) Limited Antony Leung is a Senior Managing Director of The Blackstone Group, and Chairman of Blackstone Greater China. He oversees all of Blackstone’s businesses in Asia, including private equity, real estate and corporate advisory. He is based in Hong Kong. Before joining Blackstone, Mr. Leung was the Financial Secretary of Hong Kong from 2001 to 2003.  Prior to his appointment as Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Mr. Leung had 28 years of financial services experience. He was the Chairman of Asia for JP Morgan Chase based in Hong Kong. Before that he worked for Citigroup in Hong Kong, Singapore, Manila and New York for 23 years in various positions including Country Corporate Officer for China and Hong Kong, Regional Treasurer, Division Head of Investment Banking for North Asia, South West Asia and Head of Private Banking for Asia. In public service, other than his tenure as Financial Secretary, he has been a non-official member of the Executive Council in Hong Kong, Chairman of Education Commission, Chairman of University Grants Committee, member of the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee, board member of the Airport Authority, Hong Kong Futures Exchange, the Community Chest, member of the Preparatory Committee of Hong Kong Special Administration Region, Election Committee, and a Hong Kong Affairs Advisor. He is currently independent director of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, vice chairman of the China Bluestar Group, and chairman of Heifer International in Hong Kong. His past directorship included independent director of China Mobile (HK) Limited, American International Assurance Co. Ltd, member of international advisory board of China Development Bank and European Advisory Group. Mr. Leung graduated from the University of Hong Kong in 1973, and attended Harvard Business School’s Program for Management Development and Advanced Management Program.  For his public service in Hong Kong, he was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star and an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. He was conferred an honorary Doctor of Law by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Miss Karen TANGExecutive DirectorThe Better Hong Kong Foundation(Leader of the delegation) Miss Karen Tang was appointed as the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation on June 1, 2006.  Miss Tang holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science and a Master of Arts degree in Public Administration. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, she joined the Basic Law Consultative Committee of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the Administration Officer responsible for the secretarial work of the Sub-group on Political Structure. After completing the consultation work, she joined the Ming Pao Group, a Hong Kong based media group. During her tenure with the Group, she was appointed to a number of posts, including the Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Administration and Personnel Manager, Business Development Manager, Deputy General Manager of Magazines Division, and General Manager of Yazhou Zhoukan (a regional Chinese Asiaweek). Miss Tang continued to develop her career in the media and multimedia industries, and has served as Deputy General Manager of the Chinese Television Network, General Manager of the Hongkong Telecom IMS (Interactive Multimedia Services), Director of Multimedia Services and Director of E-commerce under the Hutchison Whampoa Group. She worked for the Tung Chee Hwa Election Office in 2001 as the Director of Administration Division, responsible for the coordination of the election campaign. Prior to joining the Foundation, she was the Director of Communications of the University of Hong Kong, and reported to the Vice-Chancellor. Miss Tang is now Council Member of the Lingnan University, Member of the Committee on Performing Arts, Council Member of the Hong Kong Macau Research Centre of the Shanghai Academy of Social Science, and Invest Guangzhou International Advisor. Miss Winnie NG BA, MBA (Chicago), MPA (Harvard)Director, Kowloon Motor Bus Co LtdCouncil Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Ms Winnie NG is Founder and Deputy Chairman of RoadShow Holdings, Director of Kowloon Motor Bus (“KMB”) and Transport International Holdings.  She won the Yazhou Zhoukan Young Chinese Entrepreneur Award in 2003, was named one of China’s One Hundred Outstanding Women Entrepreneurs and a Mason Fellow of Harvard University in 2006, and was the Caring Heart Award recipient in 2009. She has successfully revamped and rejuvenated KMB’s image, and has positioned KMB as a powerful out-of-home media sales tool in Hong Kong by raising the profiles of bus body, bus shelter, and in-bus advertising.  Her introduction of the brand new champagne gold bus livery revitalizes and energizes the more than 75 year-old brand.  She founded and spearheaded listing of RoadShow (stock code: 0888), which business model has been adopted by many companies in HK, China and over the world. Active in public service, she is Director of Bauhinia Foundation Research Centre; Director of HK Cyberport; Director of HK Sports Institute; Council Member of Better HK Foundation; Executive Committee Member of HK Council of Social Service; Director of Agency for Volunteer Service; PR Committee Member of Community Chest; Hospital Governing Committee Member of Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and Advisory Board Member of Habitat for Humanity China.  Ms Ng is also Vice Chairman of Council of China’s Foreign Trade, China Council for Promotion of International Trade and Vice Board Chairman of Council of World Market, Shanghai Foreign Economic Relation & Trade Commission. She holds an MBA degree from the University of Chicago and an MPA degree from Harvard University. Mr. Albert IP International Advisory Council Asia, Washington University, St. LouisCouncil Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Albert Ip is an international banking and real estate professional, with 32 years of corporate banking, real estate finance, financial institutions, transactional banking and wealth management experiences, of which 22 years are in Asia and 10 years in the U.S. (Citigroup, Wells Fargo, First National Bank of Chicago and Merrill Lynch).  He was named Managing Director of Citigroup in 2003. Whilst at Citigroup, he was on the committee of Corporate and Investment Bank – Hong Kong as well as Asia Pacific & Middle East Global Wealth Management. Albert joined Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) as Managing Director of Investments in 3/08. Albert believes in giving back to the community. He was Finance Committee Member of the Community Chest in Hong Kong. Albert participates in mentor/mentee-ship programs in local universities and taught Personal Economics in high schools. He participates in recruiting freshmen for Washington University, Carnegie-Mellon University and Cornell University and is selection committee member of the Danforth Scholar program at Washington University. Albert was guest speaker at Shantou University (China), Lingnan University and Hong Kong University (Hong Kong).    He is currently Advisory Board Member of Lingnan University, Business Studies, International Advisory Council Asia of Washington University, St. Louis and Council Member of The Better Hong Kong Foundation. Albert was Independent Non-Executive Director and Audit Committee Member of Hopewell Holdings Limited and Hopewell Highway Infrastructure Limited, both listed companies in Hong Kong. He was lecturer in University of Pittsburgh’s part-time MBA program. Albert holds a B.S. degree in Applied Mathematics & Computer Science (Final Honor) at Washington University, St. Louis, M.S. degree in Applied Mathematics at Cornell University and M.S. in Accounting & Finance at Carnegie-Mellon University. He received full scholarships and fellowships from all 3 universities. Albert is a U.S. citizen and is married with 1 daughter. Meeting with Morgan Stanley Asia Society Speaking Luncheon: “China and Hong Kong – Post Financial Tsunami” by Mr. Antony Leung Meeting with National Committee on U.S. China Relations

The Better Hong Kong Foundation and the Asia Society Hong Kong Center jointly hosted a dinner for Ambassador Cui Tiankai, China’s Ambassador to Japan on 20 April 2009. Ambassador Cui shared with guests his views on the future of Sino-Japanese relations at the occasion. He expressed that it was important that the relationship go beyond bilateral specifics and be viewed in a global context. Hosted by Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Foundation’s Executive Committee as well as Chairman the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, the Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. Joseph Yu, and the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the dinner. Ambassador Cui Tiankai shared his views on Sino-Japanese relations

The Press Conference of 2009 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) was held in Hong Kong on 15 April 2009. It is organized by The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) and co-organized by Institute of Finance and Trade Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. “The 2009 China Urban Competitiveness Report” project is led by Prof. Pengfei Ni in the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The urban competitiveness of 294 cities in mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau is analyzed. The top 10 cities in overall urban competitiveness are: Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Tianjin, Suzhou and Kaohsiung. Hong Kong also ranked the 1st in the efficiency competitiveness, development cost competitiveness and quality of life competitiveness. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms Karen Tang commented that “the competitiveness of Hong Kong is ranked the highest amongst the cities in China and 26th amongst the 500 cities in the world. Under fierce global competition and the recent global financial and economic crisis, the order of the world economy will definitely be affected. Relatively speaking, with the rapid growth of China’s economy in the recent decades and its economic structure, the impact of the global financial crisis to China is smaller. Hong Kong is an open economy which is inevitably affected by external environment. In order to continue to thrive, Hong Kong has to make use of its competitive advantage as an international business city as well as to leverage the benefit of its accessibility to the Mainland China. The government and Hong Kong community should proactively explore the opportunities arising from the Pearl River Delta Development Plan, to proactively encounter and resolve the incompatibility in developments within the region, and to adopt a new regional strategic development thinking and vision. With that, I am sure we can work out collaborations and opportunities which are beneficial to Hong Kong, the Pearl River Delta and to the nation as a whole. It is also in line with the direction of the Foundation’s work.” (Please click here to download the ppt presentation of the report) (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang (the Foundation’s Executive Director), Prof. Yue-man Yeung (Chinese University of Hong Kong), Prof. Pengfei Ni (Chinese Academy of Social Sciences) and Prof. Jianfa Shen (Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, CUHK) (2nd right) Prof. Ni Pengfei giving a brief introduction of the report to the media The press conference is well attended by the media

Please refer to the Chinese announcement.

Initiated by the Better Hong Kong Foundation (the Foundation), and joined by the Central Policy Unit of the HKSAR Government (CPU) and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI), the Hong Kong Business Community Forum on the Pearl River Delta Development Plan was successfully held on 27 March 2009 at the City University of Hong Kong. More than 180 professionals from various business fields attended the Forum. The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong (CMA) and City University of Hong Kong (CityU) were the co-organizers and the media partner was the Hong Kong Economic Times. In January 2009, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) released “The Outline of the Plan for the Reform and Development of the Pearl River Delta (2008-2020)” (the Outline). The Hong Kong business community has been intimately involved in the development of the Pearl River Delta region for years. Noting the importance of the implementation of the Outline on the future development of Hong Kong, the Foundation in collaboration with the CPU, FHKI and CMA organized the forum where members of Hong Kong business community could share and exchange their views and experiences, to explore opportunities as well as to meet challenges that arise ahead. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. W F Leung; the CPU’s Head Prof. Lau Siu-kai; the FHKI’s Chairman Mr. Clement Chan; CityU’s President Prof. Way Kuo; and the CMA’s Chief Executive Officer Mr. Paul Leung gave their warmest welcome to the participants as a kick-off of the forum. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was the Forum’s host. We were honored to have Ms. Jin Ping, Deputy Director General of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’ Government of Guangdong Province; Mr. Cai Yunge, Deputy Director, Development and Reform Commission of Guangdong Province; and Mr. C Y Leung, Convener of the Executive Council giving keynote addresses at the Forum. Ms. Jin and Mr. Cai explained the background and introduced the Outline. Mr. Leung shared his views on various areas of cooperation between Guangdong and Hong Kong as well as the possible role and functions that Hong Kong could play under the Outline. It was followed by three panel discussions:– Financial SessionSpeaker: Prof. K C Chan, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury of the HKSAR GovernmentModerator: Dr. Frank Song, Director of the Centre for China Financial Research of The University of Hong KongDiscussants: Mr. Fang Fang, CEO and Managing Director of JP Morgan Chase & Co (China); and Mr. George Leung, Advisor, Strategy and Economics, Asia-Pacific, of HSBC.– Logistics SessionSpeaker: Mr. Anthony Wong, Immediate Past President of the Hong Kong Logistics AssociationModeration: Dr. Thomas Chan, Head of the China Business Centre of the Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityDiscussants: Mr. Chang Ka-mun, Managing Director of the Li & Fung Research Centre/Staff Officer of the Greater Pearl River Delta Business Council; andMr. Ambrose Linn, Member of the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council. – Industries/Manufacturing SessionSpeaker: Mr. Peter Leung, former Director of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs, GuangdongModerator: Mr. Cliff Sun, Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong IndustriesDiscussants: Mr. W F Leung, Group Managing Director of Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Ltd;Mr. C K Yeung, Vice Chairman of Blue Box Holdings Ltd; Ms. Iris Lam, Business Promotion Manager of Onlen Fairyland (HK) Co Ltd; and Mr. Michael Yu, Executive Committee Member of the CMA/Director of Sunnex Products Ltd. Participants enthusiastically exchanged their views with speakers at the Q&A session. Mr. Shiu Sin-por, Member of the CPU gave the concluding remarks. The details and implementation plan of the Outline are yet to be mapped out at this stage. By organizing the forum, we hoped that views gathered could be useful to Guangdong and Hong Kong Governments and can serve as a good reference to the business community. Group photo after the keynote session: (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang (the Foundation’s Executive Director), Mr. Paul Leung (CMA’s Chief Executive Officer), Mr. Cai Yunge (Deputy Director, Development and Reform Commission of Guangdong Province), Mr. Clement Chan (FHKI’s Chairman), Prof Lau Siu-kai (CPU’s Head), Mr. C Y Leung (Executive Council’s Convenor), Ms. Jin Ping (Deputy Director General of HongKong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’ Government of Guangdong Province), Mr. W F Leung (the Foundation’s Trustee) and Prof Way Kuo (CityU’s President) Over 180 professionals from various business fields attending the forum

Please refer to the Chinese version. (L to R) The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Thomas Woo, Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Chia Tai Group’s Special Assistant Ms. Li Xuhua, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR Mr. Zhan Yongxin, the Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Judy Yu, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Albert Ip

The Honourable John Tsang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, delivered the 2009-2010 Budget Speech on 25 February 2009. On 9 March 2009, members and guests of the Better Hong Kong Foundation attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon where Mr. Tsang addressed the Hong Kong business community and elaborated this year’s budget. (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang (Executive Director of the Foundation), Ms. Michelle Chan (Group Managing Director of Hutchison Harbour Ring Ltd) and Mr. Joseph Yu (Council Member of the Foundation) (L to R) Dr. Gerald Chow (Council Member of the Foundation), Mr. David Mong (Vice Chairman of Shun Hing Group) and Ms. Karen Tang (Executive Director of the Foundation) (L to R) Ms. Tan Shih-ying (Director of Communications and Public Relations Office, City University of Hong Kong), Ms. Li Xuhua (Special Assistant of Chia Tai Group) and Prof. Frank Song (Director, Centre for China Financial Research, University of Hong Kong) (L to R) Mr. Man Cheuk-fei (Chief Editor, Hong Kong Economic Journal (HKEJ) Monthly & Assistant Chief Editor, HKEJ), Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Albert Ip (Council Members of the Foundation)

On 4 March 2009, the Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a luncheon for about a hundred American Fulbright scholars and students who were attending the Fulbright China Research Forum 2009 in Hong Kong during 2 – 6 March 2009. Organized by the Hong Kong America Center, the Forum was an annual meeting of American Fulbright research scholars who were conducting research in Mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The Forum was sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in China, the Foundation for Scholarly Exchange in Taiwan and U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong, and supported by 8 local universities. Members and guests of the Foundation joined the luncheon to exchange views about the development of China and Hong Kong with the scholars. They were: The Foundation’s Council Members– Dr. Roy Chung, Vice Chairman & Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd– Mr. Thomas Woo, Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd– Dato’ S J Wong, Executive Co-Chairman, E2-Capital Group– Ms. Winnie Ng, Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd– Dr. Gerald Chow, Executive Director, Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd– Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies– Mr. Albert Ip, Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd– Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Invited Guest– Mr. Charles Ng, Managing Director, Equitas Capital Ltd (L) The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang giving her warm welcome to the Fulbright Scholars; at her left is Dr. Glenn Shive, Director of Hong Kong America Center (Middle) The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung sharing his experience with the scholars (L) The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ S J Wong exchanging his views with the scholars (Middle) The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng enjoying the discussion with the scholars (Middle) The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Gerald Chow and the Fulbright Scholars The scholars are having a great time with the Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Thomas Woo (1st left, back row) (Middle) The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Joseph Yu sharing his experience in the financial field with the scholars The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (L) and the Hong Kong America Center’s Director Dr. Glenn Shive (middle) thanking Mr. Charles Ng (R) for his participation in the luncheon

Organized by the China Universities Alumni (Hong Kong) Association (CUAA) and co-organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, CUAA-Financial Association, the CUAA-Legal Association and the Hong Kong Association of Mainland Graduates, the “CUAA – Spring Forum on the Prospect of China in 2009” was successfully held on 27 February 2009 at the Hong Kong Exhibition Centre of the China Resources Building. Mr. Ronnie Chan, Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation and Chairman of Hang Lung Group Ltd was the keynote speaker of the Forum. Other speakers included Mr. Fang Fang, CEO and Managing Director of JP Morgan Chase & Co (China); Mr. Li Jialin, Chairman of VST Holdings Ltd; Mr. Oliver Lu, Director of News of Phoenix TV’s InfoNews Channel; Mr. Li Wei, renowned commentator of current affairs; Mr. Bai Ren, Vice President of BOCI Research Ltd; and Dr. Frank Song, Director of Centre for China Financial Research of the University of Hong Kong. Over 200 participants attended the Forum, including the Foundation Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang as well as the Foundation’s invited guest Mr. Charles Ng, Director of Somerley Ltd. The Foundation Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Albert Ip joined the dinner after the Forum. The speakers shared with guests their views and comments on the economic and social developments of China in 2009. Senior legal consultants also joined the Forum to give their professional advice on legal issues relating to business operation, investment and labour areas. (1st left) The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan sharing his insightful views on the prospect of China economy

At the beginning of each Chinese New Year, the Better Hong Kong Foundation always organizes a New Year Luncheon for the Foundation’s members, Consuls General and Chairmen of international chambers of commerce in Hong Kong.  This year’s luncheon was successfully held on 19 February 2009. The Foundation’s Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for over 30 guests. Mr. Ronnie Chan, Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation shared with guests his observations and views on the recent developments in the world economy. All participants were enthusiastic in exchanging views and to looking forward to a brighter future. List of Participants The Better Hong Kong FoundationTrustees– Dr. Henry Cheng, Managing Director of New World Development Co Ltd (Advisory Council Chairman of the Foundation)– Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Group Ltd (Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation)– Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Chief Executive Officer of Far East Consortium International Ltd Council Members– Dr. Roy Chung, Vice Chairman & Executive Director of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd– Mr. Oscar Chow, Executive Director of Chevalier International Holdings Ltd– Mr. Thomas Woo, Executive Managing Director & General Manager of Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd– Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd– Dr. Gerald Chow, Executive Director of Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd– Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies– Mr. David Fong, Deputy Managing Director of Hip Shing Hong Group of Companies– Mr. Tony Choi, Executive Director of Hong Kong Garment Mfg Co Ltd– Mr. Albert Ip, Managing Director of Investments of Merrill Lynch (Pacific Asia) Ltd– Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation GuestsCommissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR– Mr. Zhan Yongxin, Deputy Commissioner– Ms. Ren Hongyan, Second Secretary Consulates in Hong Kong– Mr. Michel Malherbe, Consul General of Belgium– Ms. Doreen Steidle, Consul General of Canada– Mr. Jorgen Mollegaard, Consul-General of Denmark– Mr. Timo Rajakangas, Consul-General of Finland– Mr. Adam Tertak, Consul General of the Republic of Hungary– Mr. Daisuke Matsunaga, Deputy Consul-General of Japan– Mr. Cheong Loon Lai, Consul General of Malaysia– Ms. Adele Bryant, Consul-General of New Zealand – Mr. Ryszard J Potocki, Consul General of Poland– Mr. Alexander Romanov, Deputy Consul-General of the Russian Federation– Mr. Saeed Al Qahtani, Vice Consul of Saudi Arabia– Mr. Juan L F Arroyuelo, Consul General of Spain– Ms. Primrose Zwedala, Consul (Political) of South African– Mr. Iain Lindsay, Deputy Consul General of U.K.– Mr. Joseph R Donovan, Consul General of U.S. International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Ms. Deborah Biber, Chief Executive of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. Andrew Work, Executive Director of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen, Chairman of Danish Chamber of Commerce– Ms. Frederique Schillern, Board Member of Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. Xavier Jacquemain, President of French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong– Mr. Peter Lo, Treasurer of German Industry and Commerce– Mr. V Santha Ram, Executive Director of the Indian Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong– Mr. Rafael Aharoni, Chairman of Israeli Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. Howard Kang, Chairman of the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. David Whitwam, Chairman of New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. Serge Fafalen, President of Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Other Guests– Ambassador Curtis Chin, U.S. Executive Director of Asian Development Bank – Dr. Jonathan Choi, Chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce– Ms. Jean Wong, Chief Operating Officer/Senior Vice President of Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (L to R) The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. David Fong and Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Alexander Romanov (Deputy Consul-General of the Russian Federation), the Foundation’s Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng and Council Member Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Zhan Yongxin (Deputy Commissioner of Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR), the Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Thomas Woo and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang The Foundation members hosted the luncheon for over 30 guests

Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 43rd Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition has been successfully concluded. The photography competition aimed to encourage people to portray the future of Hong Kong industry from their perspective and arouse their awareness on the importance of local brands towards the future development of Hong Kong as well as to enhance their sense of belonging to the city. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 14 February 2009 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. The judges, including the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, selected 5 winning entries out of over 400 entries in total. The judges were impressed by both the number and quality of the entries which captured the spirit of the Expo as well as the aspirations of the contestants towards Hong Kong’s future. Group photo of the judges and the awardees

Please refer to the Chinese report. Representatives of the Organisers at the briefing: (R to L) Executive Director of the Foundation Ms. Karen Tang, Spokesman of the Commissioner’s Office Mr. Song Ronghua and Principal Curriculum Development Officer of the Education Bureau Mr. Benjamin Yung Over 40 secondary schools attending the briefing The Foundation Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang introducing the prizes of this year’s Contest

Please refer to the Chinese version. Members of the Better Hong Kong Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (front row, R to L) Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Henry Cheng and Mr. Victor Cha; (back row, R to L) Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Eric Leung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Albert Yip, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. David Fong

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation (the Foundation), Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (SCPPC), the Forum on “Economic Transformation and Development of Shanghai and Hong Kong in the Global Financial Crisis” was successfully held on 19 December 2008 in Shanghai. This was organized in an effort to better encounter the global financial crisis and to strengthen the cooperation between Shanghai and Hong Kong. Around 200 experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the Forum. The Forum was supported by Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with SCPPC Chairman Mr. Feng Guoqiang and SASS President Prof. Wang Ronghua officiated at the Forum’s Opening Ceremony. Prof. Lau Siu-kai, Head of Central Policy Unit of Hong Kong SAR Government and Mr. Zhang Guangping, Deputy Director-General of China Banking Regulatory Commission Shanghai Branch delivered their keynote speeches on “Challenges arising from U.S. economic crisis and economic transformation of Hong Kong” and “Financial crisis and regulation in Shanghai and Hong Kong” respectively. To facilitate discussions, four sessions with themes on “Impact of financial tsunami on the economic transformation of Shanghai and Hong Kong and the way forward”, “Economic transformation of Shanghai and Hong Kong: challenges, paths and inspirations”, “Economic transformation of Shanghai and Hong Kong, and interaction within the region”, and “Financial crisis and interaction between Shanghai and Hong Kong” were set up. 12 invited speakers including Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, former Government Economist and Honorary Senior Research Fellow of University of Hong Kong; Mr. Antony Hung, Asia Pacific Global Wealth Management Head of Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd; Dr. Zhou Bajun, senior research fellow of China Everbright Holding Co Ltd; Prof Francis Lui of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; Prof. Tuan Chyan and Prof Linda Ng of Chinese University of Hong Kong; Dr. Thomas Chan, Head of China Business Center of Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Mr. Qiao Yide, Secretary of Shanghai Development Research Foundation, etc, shared their views on the topics. The Foundation’s Executive Director, Miss Karen Tang was one of the moderators and Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng and Mr. Albert Ip participated in the Forum. In conclusion, Dr. Zuo Xuejin, Executive Vice-President of SASS appreciated the speakers and participants for sharing their insights of which would be consolidated and presented to related authorities in due course. In his concluding remarks, Mr. Li Liangyuan, Deputy Chairman of SCPPC thanked the organizers, speakers and participants for their efforts made to the Forum. He hoped that the economic cooperation and development between Shanghai and Hong Kong could be further enhanced and strengthened. After the Forum, the Foundation hosted a dinner for the organizers and speakers at the Xintiendi Club. Prof. Wang Ronghua, President of Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan delivering his opening remarks Officiating guests at the opening ceremony Around 200 experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attending the Forum (L to R) Mr. Ronnie Chan (Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation), Mr. Feng Guoqiang (Chairman of Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference) and Dr. Zuo Xuejin (Executive Vice-President of Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences) at the opening ceremony (L to R) The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Albert Ip (Manager Director of Investments of Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd), Mr. Alfred Tsai (Manager Director of Investments of Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, and Mr. Antony Hung (Asia Pacific Global Wealth Management Head of Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd) Mr. Ronnie Chan and Ms. Ding Zhijian (Committee of Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan Compatriots and Overseas Chinese Affairs of Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference) Prof. Lau Siu-kai (middle), Head of Central Policy Unit of Hong Kong SAR Government and Mr. Zhang Guangping (right), Deputy Director-General of China Banking Regulatory Commission Shanghai Branch delivering their keynote speeches and answering questions on the floor Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen (2nd left) (Honorary Senior Research Fellow of University of Hong Kong/Former Government Economist), Dr. Zhou Bajun (3rd left) (Senior Research Fellow of China Everbright Holding Co Ltd) and Prof. Xu Mingqi (4th left) (Deputy Director of Institute of World Economy and research fellow of SASS) delivering their speeches and answering questions on the floor. Dr. Thomas Chan (1st left) (Head of China Business Center of Hong Kong Polytechnic University) as the moderator of the session The Foundation’s Executive Director, Ms Karen Tang is one of the moderators (L to R) Dr. Zuo Xuejin, Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, Mr. Li Liangyuan (Deputy Chairman of SCPPC), the Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng (Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd), Ms. Ding Zhijian and the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang at the closing ceremony (L to R) Group photo of Prof. Linda Ng (Chinese University of Hong Kong), Ms. Karen Tang, Prof. Tuan Chyan (Chinese University of Hong Kong) and Prof. You Anshan after the dinner

The Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest (“the Contest”) is jointly organized by the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in HKSAR, the Hong Kong Education Bureau and the Better Hong Kong Foundation. The launching ceremony of the 3rd Contest was successfully held at the Commissioner’s Office on 16 December 2008. Commissioner Lu Xinhua, Secretary for Education Mr. Michael Suen and Permanent Secretary for Education Mr. Raymond Wong, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang officiated the launch; and representatives of supporting organizations including Hong Kong Jockey Club Chairman Mr. John Chan and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, Cable TV Assistant Controller Mrs. Ellen Wu, Ming Pao Chief Operating Officer Mr. Keith Kam, Wen Wai Pao Associate Publisher Ms. Han Li, etc attended the ceremony. Since its inception in 2006, the Contest has been very well received among the secondary schools and the public. Over 200 secondary schools and hundreds of people participated. The Contest widens students’ horizons, especially on the international relations and China’s diplomatic policies. Through scenario analysis and improvisation, students’ crisis management skill and independent thinking ability can also be enhanced. Commissioner Lu Xinhua reviewed the results of the past two Contests and thanked the organizers and supporting organizations for their dedication and contributions made to the Contests. The Secretary for Education Mr. Michael Suen expressed the Education Bureau’s commitment in organizing national education including the Diplomatic Knowledge Contest so as to enhance students’ awareness of the national affairs. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan said that the Contest was conducive in nurturing youngsters’ interest and knowledge in international affairs and understanding of the country’s diplomatic policy, which is important and beneficial to grooming the next generation for Hong Kong and for the Mainland. Tentative dates of the Contest:First Round  7 March 2008Semi-Final  19 April 2008Final   27 June 2008 Details of the Contest will be announced soon. (L to R) Mr. John Chan, Mr. Michael Suen, Commissioner Lu Xinhua, Mr. Ronnie Chan and Deputy Commissioner Yang Zigang Commissioner Lu Xinhua welcomed guests to attend the launching ceremony Mr. Michael Suen said the Contest has become one of the highlighted events in promoting national education in schools Mr. Ronnie Chan said the Foundation will give its continuous support to the Contest Commissioner Lu Xinhua and the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang are glad to work together again on the 3rd Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest (L to R) Mr. Benjamin Yung, Ms. Karen Tang, Deputy Commissioner Yang Zigang, Mr. Michael Suen, Commissioner Lu Xinhua, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Deputy Commissioner Zhan Yongxin, Mr. Raymond Wong and Mr. Song Ronghua Group photo of representatives from organizers, co-organizers and sponsors

The 4th Asia Economic Summit – Reinvention Asian Economics for Sustainable Growth and Prosperity, jointly organized by the Asia Society Hong Kong Center and the Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute, was successfully held on 8 – 9 December 2008. The Better Hong Kong Foundation sponsored the Luncheon entitled “China’s Role in the World Economy & Financial Reforms”. Mr. Claude Smadja, Former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum was invited to address at the luncheon while Ambassador Wu Jianmin also shared his views on the topic and joined Mr. Smadja to answer questions from the floor during the Q&A session, of which Mr. Ronnie Chan, Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation and Chairman of the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, was the moderator. Foundation Trustee and Chairman of Lippo Group Mr. Stephen Riady spoke at the session on “Asia’s Property Market – Towards Sustainable Development”. The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Albert Ip together with Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang participated in the summit. By invitation of the Foundation, Swiss Consul General Dr. Hans Roth; President of the Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Mr. Serge Fafalen; and the Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd Mr. Alfred Tsai also attended the event. (R to L) Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ambassador Wu Jianmin, Mr. Claude Smadja and Ms. Karen Tang (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, President of Swiss Chamber of Commerce Mr. Serge Fafalen and President, ASEAN of GE Mr. Stuart Dean Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Gerald Chow (1st left), Mr. Claude Smadja (3rd left), Mr. Zhan Yongxin (3rd right), Mr. Ronnie Chan (2nd right) and Ambassador Wu Jianmin (1st right)

The Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) Asia Meeting was successfully held in Hong Kong from 2 – 3 December 2008. Former U.S. President Mr. Bill Clinton travelled to Hong Kong to host the first CGI meeting outside the United States. Several hundred Asian leaders from a variety of backgrounds participated in the CGI Meeting which focused on three primary areas of discussion, namely education, energy & climate change, and public health. Mr. Yang Jiechi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the PRC made the opening keynote speech. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan was one of the panelists at the session “Next-Generation Philanthropy”. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was also invited to join the meeting.The Better Hong Kong Foundation In 2005, President Clinton established CGI to turn ideas into action and to help the world move beyond the current state of globalization to a more integrated global community of shared benefits, responsibilities, and values. Details of the CGI could be found from its website.  

Jointly organized by the Institute of World Economics and Politics of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Faculty of Business and Partnership Development Office of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the “China Economic and Business Symposium 2008 – The Insights” was successfully held on 25 November 2008. The Better Hong Kong Foundation was one of the supporting organizations. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Council Member Mr. Oscar Chow were moderators and speakers of the conference issues. Prominent speakers who are instrumental in providing high level analysis and research support to the Chinese government’s policy development and deployment were invited to speak at the symposium. The symposium provided a timely opportunity for participants to gain access to top-level information about the Central government’s direction and policy, thus enabling them to make well-informed decisions in one of the world’s fastest growing economies. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the symposium where over 600 participants joined.  Audiences not only gained insights from “the brains behind”, but also learned views and opinions from business and industrial leaders in Hong Kong. Mr. Ronnie Chan (3rd left) enjoying the conversation with Prof. Ko Jan-ming (2nd left), Vice President of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Mr. Oscar Chow (1st left) joining the symposium as one of the panelists Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang receiving the souvenir from Prof. Ko Jan-ming, Vice President of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Since its inception in 2006, the Heart of Gold Awards honors annually Hong Kong artists and corporations that have made worthy contributions to sustainable developments to the community. The Better Hong Kong Foundation, Ming Pao Weekly and the Peace and Development Foundation are the three founding organizers. The presentation ceremony of the Awards was successfully held on 12 November 2008 at the Grand Ballroom at the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong. Mr. C Y Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council was the award presenter this year. Recipients of this year’s Awards are: – Artist or Artistic Group                 Hong Kong Performing Artistes Guild – Corporation & Business Entities    Hang Seng Bank   Mr. C Y Leung (left) presenting the Heart of Gold Awards 2008 to Hong Kong Performing Artistes Guild under the category of Artist or Artistic Group Mr. C Y Leung (left) presenting the Heart of Gold Awards 2008 to Hang Seng Bank under the category of Corporation & Business Entities Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (3rd left) taking a group photo with awardees of the Heart of Gold Awards 2008 (Left to right) Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Convenor of Executive Council Mr. C Y Leung, Ming Pao Ms. Lee Yin-king and recipient of Heart of Gold Awards 2006 Ms. Winnie Ng of the KMB Co Ltd (Left to right) Mr. C Y Leung, Spokesman of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong Mr. Song Ronghua, Ms. Karen Tang and recipient of Heart of Gold Awards 2007 Ms. Teresa Au of HSBC (Left to right) Mr. Alex Law, Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Judy Yu, Chief Editor of Mingpao Weekly Mr. Lung King-cheong, Ms. Karen Tang and Ms. Mable Cheung

Mr. Li Gang, Deputy Director of Chinese Liaison Office in Hong Kong was invited to join a luncheon with members of the Foundation on 7 November 2008. Mr. Li was accompanied by Mr. Sin Jinquan, Deputy Director General of Publicity, Culture and Sports Department of the Chinese Liaison Office in Hong Kong. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; the Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dr. Gerald Chow, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. David Fong and Mr. Albert Ip; and the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow attended the luncheon and had fruitful dialogues with Mr. Li Gang and Mr. Sin Jinquan. (R to L) Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Li Gang, Dato’ David Chiu and Ms. Judy Yu (L to R) Mr. David Fong, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Albert Ip

Jointly organized by Prime Communications Ltd and the Hong Kong Institute of Directors, the Prime Awards for Corporate Social Responsibility 2008 was established in recognition for companies’ efforts and involvement in taking up corporate social responsibility. Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation was invited to be a member of the panel of judges and award presenter. Results of this year’s awards were announced at its presentation ceremony held on 30 October 2008. And this year’s beneficiary organization of the event was Agency for Volunteer Service.

Organised by the Better Hong Kong Foundation (the Foundation), Mr. David McCormick, Under Secretary for International Affairs of the U.S. Treasury Department delivered a luncheon speech entitled “Financial Turmoil in Perspective” at the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel in Hong Kong on 22 October 2008. More than 300 audiences who are professionals from financial and banking sectors, insurance and properties industries, academic and the government, etc attended the luncheon and exchanged their views with Mr. McCormick on the recent global financial crises and the way forward. After a warm welcome given by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and an introduction by Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Chairman of the Asia Society Hong Kong Center and Chairman of Hang Lung Group, Mr. McCormick began his speech by saying that no countries in the world could immune from the recent global financial stress as well as the destabilizing financial markets caused by diminishing market confidence. To address the instability and restore the health of the world economy, Mr. McCormick urged that the whole world must work together to achieve these goals. Mr. McCormick also shared his views on the root cause of the market turmoil, the measurements that the United States are taking to mitigate risk as well as to stabilize the markets, and suggested some possible early lessons for both the United States and China. Four emerging themes have been suggested by Mr. McCormick, namely the reformation of US financial system, development of domestic market, anti-protectionism and the continuation of cooperation among government around the world. Although the interdependence of the global economy has made the current challenges more complex, Mr. McCormick believed that the challenge would be overcame with the joint effort of the leaders around the world. In the Q&A session, most of the audiences asked how the US government could ensure its actions taken in dealing with the current turmoil be an effective one and how the upcoming new US administration will carry that forward. The discussion amongst Mr. McCormick and the audiences was definitely a fruitful and constructive one. It was truly a rewarding experience for the Foundation’s members and for all other audiences. At his introduction, Mr Ronnie Chan commended the US government that it has been wise in inviting experienced experts from business who really understand the market. Good examples include Mr David McCormick and Mr Henry Paulson. Ms Karen Tang explained that the luncheon has been planned for more than a year and it turned out to be at the perfect timing. She thanked Asia Society for co-organising the event and thanked the media partners Economist, South China Morning Post, and Caijing Magazine for supporting the event and making it a success. Amongst the audiences, the Better Hong Kong Foundation members attended include: – Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Deputy Chairman of Far East Consortium International Ltd, – Dr Roy Chung, Vice Chairman of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd, – Mr. Thomas Woo, Executive Managing Director & General Manager of Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd, – Ms Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd, – Dr Gerald Chow, Executive Director of Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd, – Ms Judy Yu-Hong, Managing Director of Carsac Ltd, – Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies, and – Mr. Albert Ip, Managing Director of Investment, Pac Rim, Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd. Other guests include:– Mr. Joseph Donovan, U.S. Consul General, Mr. Christopher Marut, U.S. Deputy Consul General,– Mr. Zhan Yongxin, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR,– Dr. Edgar Cheng, Council Chairman of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Chairman of the World-Wide Investment Co Ltd, – Prof Lawrence Lau, Vice-Chancellor of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, – Mr. Douglas Woo, Acting Managing Director of Wheelock Properties (Hong Kong) Ltd, – Dr. Gerald Chan, Non-Executive Director of Morningside Group, etc. The Asia Society was the co-organiser of the event. And the media partners included the Economist, the South China Morning Post and Caijing. Click here to view the video Over 300 people attended the luncheon presentation on 22 October 2008. Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Foundation introduced the honorable speaker Mr. David McCormick to the audience. Mr. David McCormick shared with the audiences his views on the recent global financial turmoil and the way forward. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang gave a warmest welcome to Mr. McCormick. Questions from the audience were flooding into the Q&A session. Mr. Tom Easton, Asia Business Editor of the Economist was the moderator of the Q&A session. Mr. McCormick was paying his full attention to the questions from the floor. Ms. Karen Tang presented a souvenir to Mr. McCormick as a token of appreciation. (R to L) Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. David McCormick, Mr. Tom Easton and Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung (2nd left) and Mrs. Judy Yu-hong (1st right) attended the luncheon to show their support. (L to R) Mr. Albert Ip, Council Member of the Foundation, Mr. Christopher Marut, U.S. Deputy Consul General Hong Kong, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Trustee of the Foundation, Mr. Joseph R Donovan Jr., U.S. Consul General Hong Kong, Dr. Roy Chung, Council Member of the Foundation, Mr. Zhan Yongxin, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR and Prof. Lawrence Lau, Vice-Chancellor of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. (R to L) The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Winnie Ng and Mr. Albert Ip, Council Members of the Foundation. (L to R) Mr. Albert Ip, Council Member of the Foundation, Mr. Zhan Yongxin, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation, Prof. Lawrence Lau, Vice-Chancellor of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Dr. Edgar Cheng, Council Chairman of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Chairman of the World-Wide Investment Co Ltd. The Foundation’s Council Members Mrs. Judy Yu-hong and Mr. Joseph Yu (1st right) thanked Mr. McCormick after the luncheon.

Brands Original from Hong Kong Awards 2008      On 6 October 2008, Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was invited as prize presenter at the prize presentation ceremony of Brands Original from Hong Kong Awards 2008. The award was launched by the business magazine Capital Entrepreneur for the first time to recognize successful brands originating from Hong Kong. Corporations were judged by five criteria, namely innovation, market position, entrepreneurship, reputation, and familiarity among people in Hong Kong. 16 outstanding corporations were awarded. Ms. Karen Tang (3rd left) officiating the prize presentation ceremony together with Miss Jessica Ng, CEO of South China Media Group and other guests

OverviewSince the Hong Kong Journalism Fellowships program launched in 1996, the Better Hong Kong Foundation (“The Foundation”) worked with the East-West Centre, Honolulu, U.S. in organising this annual program for senior journalists from the U.S. major media. This year’s program included a 5-day seminar in Honolulu and a 12-day study tour to Beijing, Kunming, Shangri-la and Hong Kong from 11 to 27 September 2008. Led by Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation, the delegation was comprised of 7 journalists from the United States and was accompanied by Ms. Isadora Chen of the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Jimmie Chow, Communications Manager of the Foundation and Ms. Marilyn Li, Seminar Specialist of the East-West Center. (Please see below for the list of participants and itinerary of the study tour.) Honolulu – BeijingBefore the study tour, the delegation first attended seminars in Honolulu where experts at China and Hong Kong issues were invited to give an overview on the two places. With the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Better Hong Kong Foundation organized the study program to China and Hong Kong. On 16 September 2008, the delegation arrived Beijing where they started their journey in China. To have a feel of the city, a sightseeing tour including visiting Great Wall and Forbidden City was held on the next day. The journalists were amazed and fascinated by both historic and the state-of-the-art buildings in Beijing. In view of the recent global financial crisis, the meeting with Mr. Liu Mingkang, Chairman of China Banking Regulatory Commission was of great interest to the journalists where they were able to understand more about the financial policies and banking systems in China as well as Mr. Liu’s views on this global financial crisis. The delegation was also pleased to be received by Dr. Charles Zhang, Founder and Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of SOHU.com at the headquarters of the company. Dr. Zhang shared with the journalists his views on the internet development in China and also his opinion on the differences between Chinese and western culture. The group also visited the Beijing Organizing Committee for Games of the XXIX Olympics. After meeting with the Committee’s Spokesman Mr. Sun Weide, the journalists were thrilled to tour around the “Bird Nest” and “Water Cube” where were specially opened for the delegation. During the stay in Beijing, the delegation met with Mr. Qin Gang, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as other senior government officials from the Bureau of Energy under the National Development and Reform Commission, and the State Environmental Protection Bureau. The group also visited Renmin University of China and met with its Vice President Prof Chen Yulu, and had a fruitful and interesting dialogue with their students. On the last day in Beijing, the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing hosted a luncheon for the group and explained the role of Hong Kong Government’s Office in Beijing and in other parts of the Mainland. Kunming – Shangri-laThe second part of the study tour was a 5-day program in Kunming and Shangri-la. As the capital of Yunnan Province, Kunming is the heart of the province where the provincial government works and also serves as the hub of transportation of Yunnan. Mr. Gu Zhaoxi, Vice Governor of Yunnan Provincial People’s Government and other senior government officials hosted a luncheon for the delegation and gave an overview of the latest development and future planning of Yunnan Province. The delegates also paid a visit to the City Planning Exhibition Center and the famous sightseeing spot Stone Forest in Kunming. Upon arrival in Shangri-la, the delegation was stunned by the beauty of the natural environment. Noting the significant influence of the Buddhism religion in Shangri-la, the delegation visited Gedan Songzanlin Lamasery and Diqing Branch of Yunnan Buddhism College to understand more about the living and education of monks. Mr. Qi Zhala, Party Secretary of the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture met with the journalists and answered their questions regarding to government’s policies on the city’s planning and development, religion, ethic groups’ cultural preservation, environment conservation, etc. Mr. Qi then hosted a Tibetan dinner where the delegates were sang and blessed by a choir of Tibetan singers. The group also visited Pudacuo National Park, Xiagei Cultural Eco-tourism Village, Tibetan Mastiff Breading Base, Dukezong Old Town, Tangdui Village in Nixi Township, Shangri-la Alpine Botanic Park and Gesang Flowers Company. During the 3-day program in Shangri-la, the group was given the opportunity to understand the diversity of China in terms of culture, custom, ethnic minority, geography, etc. Hong KongOn 24 September 2008, the delegation arrived Hong Kong, the last stop of the study tour. The breakfast meeting with Mr. Archie Tsim, Chief Financial Officer of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd was served as a kick-off of the 2-day program in Hong Kong. As the financial crisis was the hottest topic in the town, the group was eager to exchange views with Mr. Tsim on the financial issues, both locally and globally. The delegation enjoyed very much the luncheon hosted by Mr. C Y Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council of the HKSAR and the opportunity to discuss with its Council Members Mr. Andrew Liao, Mr. Ronald Arculli, Dr. C H Leong, Prof Anthony Cheung, Mr. Bernard Chan and Mr. Jasper Tsang on various development issues in Hong Kong as well as international affairs. Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong briefed the delegation on the relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland and the responsibilities of his office in dealing with external affairs for Hong Kong. The group visited the Office of Former Chief Executives where Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, the first Chief Executive of the HKSAR and Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, shared his views on the developments of Hong Kong as well as those in the Mainland China. The Foundation hosted a dinner at the Dynasty Club where the journalists not only met the Foundation members but also guests from local business sector, academic and media. Dr. Henry Cheng, Chairman of Advisory Council of the Foundation, Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng and Mr. Albert Ip showed their support at the dinner. Meetings with key officials of the HKSAR Government including the Secretary for Justice Mr. Wong Yan-Lung, the Secretary for the Environment Mr. Edward Yau and the Acting Government Economist Mrs. Helen Chan were conducted so as to give the journalists some ideas about the legal, environmental and financial policies in Hong Kong. In addition, the Foundation also hosted a table at the luncheon presentation entitled “China’s Post-Olympic Economic, Social and Political Environment” where the delegation was able to discuss with the speakers Mr. Zoher Abdoolcarim, Asia Editor of Times International, Mr. Thomas Easton, Asia Business Editor of the Economist, and Mr. Peter Stein, Bureau Chief Hong Kong of the Wall Street Journal Asia, as well as the President and members of the American Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong. Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang expressed her gratitude to the East-West Center and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their support and was grateful to all the participants for their active participation and cooperation to make the trip a success. In return the participants responded that the program enabled them a better understanding of China and Hong Kong. As one participant said that the program deepened her understanding of a broad range of issues in Hong Kong and the mainland China in a way that is only possible by actually visiting a country. List of Participants: 1. Mr. Travis Altman, Producer, Fox Business Network, New York, New York2. Ms. Lisa Girion, Staff Writer, Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, California 3. Ms. Leslie Hook, Editorial Page Writer, The Wall Street Journal Asia, Hong Kong4. Ms. Kathleen Ingley, Editorial Writer, Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona5. Ms. Toni Randolph, Reporter, Minnesota Public Radio, St. Paul, Minnesota6. Ms. Lori Ruggiero, Producer, CNN/American Morning, New York, New York7. Mr. Steve Wilhelm, Staff Writer, Puget Sound Business Journal, Seattle, Washington Detailed Itinerary: Honolulu (11 – 15 Sept 08) (4 nights) 11 Sept (Thu) Welcome Dinner       12 Sept (Fri) Welcome and Introduction: opening remarks; self-introductions; administrative briefing Ms Susan Kreifels, Media Programs Coordinator, East-West Seminars, East-West Center     East-West Center Briefing U.S.-China Relations and Cross Straits Relations Ambassador Raymond Burghardt, Director, East-West Seminars, East-West Center     Group photo at the Friendship Circle of the East-West Center     An Overview of Contemporary Hong Kong Dr. Christopher McNally, Fellow, Politics, Governance and Security Studies, Research Program, East-West Center     China’s Political Economy Dr. Christopher McNally, Fellow, Politics, Governance and Security Studies, Research Program, East-West Center     Current Energy Issues in China and Its Impacts on Global Markets Dr. Kang Wu, Senior Fellow, Economic Studies, Research Program, East-West Center     Introduction to EWC Media Services, Mr. Derek Ferrar, Media Relations Specialist, External Affairs     Introduction to EWS Associates, Ms. Noreen Tanouye, Assistant Alumni Officer, Associates Office       13 Sept (Sat) East Asia Security Overview Mr. Ralph Cossa, President, Pacific Forum CSIS (Center for Strategic and International Studies)     Current Issues in Chinese Law Dr. Alison W Conner, Professor, William S Richardson School of Law, University of Hawaii     Luncheon & Roundtable Discussion with the University of Hawaii Parvin Fellows     Discussion of study tour       14 Sept (Sun) Free       15 Sep (Mon) Fellows leave for Beijing  Beijing (16 – 20 Sept 08) (4 nights) 16 Sept (Tue) Fellows arrive Beijing       17 Sept (Wed) Great Wall     Tiananmen Square, National Theatre, Forbidden City     Dinner hosted by Better Hong Kong Foundation at Wuyi Fengwei Restaurant       18 Sept (Thu) Meeting with Vice President Chen Yulu and teachers and students of Renmin University of China     Meeting with the National Development & Reform Commission     Visit the International Press Centre (IPC)     Lunch hosted by Qin Gang, Spokesman, joined by officials from the Department of North American & Oceanian Affairs and the Information Department of Ministry of Foreign Affairs     Meeting with Liu Mingkang, Chairman, China Banking Regulatory Commission     Hou Hai Huton tour (visit a family who received foreigners during the Olympics)     Meeting with founder Zhang Zhaoyang and staff of Sohu.com     Dinner hosted by Sohu.com       19 Sept (Fri) Meeting with State Environmental Protection Bureau     Meeting and lunch with Beijing Office of the HKSAR     Sun Weide, Spokesman of the Beijing Organising Committee for Games of the XXIX Olympics     Visit Water Cube, Bird Nest, etc. Olympic venues       20 Sept (Sat) Leave for Kunming Yunan (20 – 24 Sept 08) Kunming (1 night) 20 Sept (Sat) Arrive Kunming     Visit the Stone Forest     Dinner hosted by BHKF       21 Sept (Sun) Leave for Shangrila Shangrila (2 nights) 21 Sept (Sun) Arrive Shangrila     Visit Gedan Songzanlin Lamasery     Lunch hosted by BHKF     Visit Pudacuo National Park     Dinner hosted by BHKF       22 Sept (Mon) Visit Diqing Branch of Yunnan Buddhism College     Visit Xiagei Cultural Eco-tourism Village; visit Tibetan folk handicraft workshops and Tibetan families     Lunch at the village (hosted by the BHKF)     Visit Tibetan Mastiff Breading Base     Visit Dukezong Old Town     Interview with Mr. Qi Zhala, Party Secretary of the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture     Dinner hosted by Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefectural People’s Government       23 Sept (Tue) Visit Tangdui Village in Nixi Township; view black pottery making and Nixi Chicken breeding processes, and visit local Tibetan families     Lunch at the village     Visit Shangri-la Alpine Botanic Park     Visit Gesang Flowers Company     Leave for meadow sightseeing     Leave for Kunming Kunming (1 night) 23 Sept (Tue) Arrive Kunming       24 Sept (Wed) Visit Kunming City Planning Exhibition Centre     Luncheon hosted by H.E. Gu Zhaoxi, Vice Governor of Yunnan Provincial People’s Government     Leave Kunming for Hong Kong by KA761 Hong Kong (24 – 27 Sept 08) (3 nights) 24 Sept (Wed) Arrive Hong Kong       25 Sept (Thu) Breakfast meeting with Mr. Archie Tsim (Chief Financial Officer) & Mr. Henry Law (Executive Vice President, Head of Corporate Communications Dept) of HKEx     Meeting with Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong     Lunch hosted by Mr. C Y Leung , Convenor of the Executive Council (Exco) of the HKSAR, with Exco members, Mr. Andrew Liao, Mr. Ronald Arculli, Dr. C H Leong, Prof Anthony Cheung, Mr. Bernard Chan, Mr. Jasper Tsang     Meeting with Mrs. Helen Chan, Acting Government Economist at Economic Analysis & Business Facilitation     Meeting with Mr. Edward Yau, Secretary for Environment     Dinner with Foundation members and guests at Dynasty Club       26 Sept (Fri) Meeting with AmCham members, Zoher Abdoolcarim, Peter Stein (Bureau Chief Hong Kong, The Wall Street Journal Asia) at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel     Table hosted by the Foundation at the AmCham luncheon at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel Title: China’s Post-Olympic Economic, Social and Political Environment Speakers:    Mr. Zoher Abdoolcarim (Asia Editor, Times International) Mr. Thomas Easton (Asia Business Editor, The Economist) Mr. Peter Stein (Bureau Chief Hong Kong, The Wall Street Journal     Asia)     Meeting with Mr Wong Yan-lung, Secretary for Justice     Meeting with Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first former Chief Executive of HKSAR       27 Sept (Sat) Depart Hong Kong Beijing Visit to Great Wall Visit to Forbidden City Tiananmen Square National Theatre Visit to Renmin University of China Presenting souvenir to Vice President Chen Yulu (2nd left) Group photo with teachers and students of the Remin University of China Visit to National Development and Reform Commission’s Bureau of Energy Presenting souvenir to show our appreciation Group photo after the meeting Visit to International Press Center Luncheon hosted by Mr. Qin Gang, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Presenting souvenirs to Mr. Qin (middle) Group photo with Mr. Qin and his colleagues from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meeting with Mr. Liu Mingkang, Chairman of China Banking Regulatory Commission Exchanging views on the recent global financial crisis Presenting souvenir to Mr. Liu Group photo after the meeting Hou Hai Huton tour Visit to a family who received foreigners during the Olympics Group photo at the garden inside the Huton Meeting with Dr. Charles Zhang, Founder and Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of SOHU.com Presenting souvenir to Dr. Zhang (middle) Visit to the headquarters of SOHU.com The delegation is pleased to receive the mascot of Beijing Olympics Meeting with the State Environmental Protection Bureau Group photo with officials of the Bureau Visit to the Beijing Office of the HKSAR Government Presenting souvenir to Mr Sidney Chan, Deputy Director of Beijing Office (2nd left) and Mr. Allen Fan, Chairman of Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China (3rd left) Group photo in front of the Beijing Office Luncheon hosted by the Beijing Office of the HKSAR Government Visit to the Beijing Organizing Committee for Games of the XXIX Olympics Presenting souvenir to Mr. Sun Weide, Spokesman of the Organizing Committee Group photo with Mr. Sun Visit to Bird Nest Visit to Water Cube Visit to Stone Forest The journalist (speaking) participating in the performance when dinning at a local restaurant Arrived Shangri-la Gedan Songzanlin Lamasery Meeting the Living Buddha (in red cloth) at Gedan Songzanlin Lamasery Chatting with lamas at the Lamasery Overview of Gedan Songzanlin Lamasery Visit to Pudacuo National Park, the first national park in China Visit to Diqing Branch of Yunnan Buddhism College Interviewing a teacher of the College Visit to Xiagei Cultural Eco-tourism Village Tibetan lunch People of the Village singing a song to welcome the delegation Traditional Tibetan hand painting Making Tibetan incense Woodblock printing of Buddhist manuscripts Visit to Tibetan Mastiff Breading Base Visit to Dukezong Old Town Interviewing Mr. Qi Zhala, Party Secretary of the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (1st left) Dinner hosted by Mr. Qi Performers singing a song to welcome all the guests Presenting souvenir to Mr. Qi Zhala A journalist joining the dancing group at the Dukezong Old Town square Visit to a local Tibetan family in Tangdui Village in Nixi Township Napa Sea Meadow sightseeing Yak boat Visit to Kunming City Planning Exhibition Center Luncheon hosted by Mr. Gu Zhaoxi, Vice Governor of Yunnan Provincial People’s Government Presenting souvenir to Mr. Gu Breakfast meeting hosted by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Meeting with Mr. Archie Tsim, Chief Financial Officer of HKEx (middle) Meeting with Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of Commissioner’s Office of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong (right) Headquarters of the Commissioner’s Office Presenting souvenir to Mr. Lu Group photo with Mr. Lu after the meeting Mr. C Y Leung hosted a luncheon to the delegation Members of the Executive Council also joined the luncheon Thanking Mr. Leung for hosting the luncheon Meeting Mrs. Helen Chan, Acting Government Economist (1st right) Presenting souvenir to Mrs. Chan (Middle) Visit to Environmental Bureau Meeting Mr. Edward Yau, Secretary for the Environment Dr. Henry Cheng (sitting middle), Foundation’s Advisory Council Chairman meeting the delegation at the dinner hosted by the Foundation Informal discussion with Chairman and members of the American Chamber of Commerce (Hong Kong) The Foundation hosted a table to the delegation at the AmCham luncheon Meeting with Mr. Wong Yan-lung, Secretary for Justice Group photo with Mr. Wong (4th right) Meeting Mr. Tung Chee-hwa at the Office of Former Chief Executives Group photo with Mr. Tung

Jointly hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Asia Society Hong Kong Center, Committee of 100 and the American Chamber of Commerce, a luncheon presentation on “The 2008 Presidential Campaign Trail: Where Does It Lead?” was successfully held on 15 August 2008. Speakers of the luncheon were Mr. David Brooks, a New York Times columnist and Mr. Charlie Cook, a political commentator. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan introduced the speakers to the guests at the luncheon where they were shared with Mr. Brooks’ and Mr. Cook’s views on the 2008 presidential election of the U.S. The presentation ended with a vote on “who would win the election” and more votes have been cast for Obama on the occasion. The Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, and Mr. Alber Ip attended and guests included the Deputy Commissioner of The Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR Mr. Zhan Yongxin; the Director of Public Affairs of U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong Mr. Anthony Hutchinson; the Chairman of Crown Worldwide Holdings Ltd. Mr. James E. Thompson; the Principal of Heidrick & Struggles Mr. Peter Liu; Reuters Columnist of the Chinese Language News Service Ms. Wei Gu and Researchers of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR. From left to right: Mr. Ronnie Chan (Executive Committee Chairman of the Foundation, Chairman of Hang Lung Group Limited); Mr. David Brooks (Columnist of the New York Times); Mr. Charlie Cook (political commentator); Ms. Alice Mong (Executive Director of Committee 100) From right to left: Mr. James E. Thompson (Chairman of Crown Worldwide Holdings Ltd.); Mr. Shiu Sin-por (Counselor of Central Policy Unit of HKSAR Government ); Ms. Alice Mong (Executive Director of Committee 100) From left to right: Mr. James E. Thompson (Chairman of Crown Worldwide Holdings Ltd.); Mr. Joseph Yu (Council Member of BHKF, Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies); Mr. Peter Liu (Principal of Heidrick & Struggles) From left to right: Mr. Peter Liu (Principal of Heidrick & Struggles); Ms. Wei Gu (Columnist, Chinese Language News Service, Reuters); Mr. Anthony Hutchinson (Director of Public Affairs, U.S. Consulate General); Mr. Albert Ip, Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd

The five teams who had won in the Second Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest visited Beijing from August 13 to 16. As representative of one of the three co-organizers of the Contest, Miss Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation, joined the trip. During their stay in Beijing, the delegation visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC and was received by Mr. Yang Jiechi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Qin Gang, the Spokesman; Mr. Song Ru’an, Counselor of Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC; and Mr. Huang Songfu, Deputy General Director of Department of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Affairs of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC. Mr. Yang Jiechi praised the teams’ outstanding performance and congratulated them on their success. Also the delegation was arranged to watch Olympic Games, including beach volleyball and hockey. The delegation stayed in the China Foreign Affairs University and was briefed by Mr. Heng Xiaojun, Professor and Deputy Secretary of CPC Committee of China Foreign Affairs University, the history and programs of the University. In response to a student’s question on the qualification of admission to the University, Mr. Heng Xiaojun answered that students from HK could take an exam for HK and Macau students and in fact there were students from HK studying in the University and the first Macau student had just been admitted this year. The delegation was grateful to the hospitality of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the University, and was thrilled by the Olympic Games ambience in Beijing. The Study Tour visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and took the photo with Mr Huang Songfu, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs (5th from right), Ms Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation (6th from right), Mr Yang Jiechi, Minister of Foreign Affairs (7th from right), Mr Benjamin Yung, Principal Education Officer of Education Bureau (8th from right), Mr Deng Zhonghua, Director-General of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs (9th from right) and Mr Song Ronghua, Spokesman of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR Ms Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation presented the souvenir to Mr Yang Jiechi, Minister of Foreign Affairs Enjoyed the Olympic beach volleyball games Mr Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR gave his warmest congratulations to the students when they returned to Hong Kong

The Fifth International Forum on “Global Urban Competitiveness” (“The Forum”) was successfully held in Yangzhou on 26th – 27th of July 2008. Initiated by the Global Urban Competitiveness Project (GUCP), this year’s Forum was organized by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and Yangzhou Government and supported by the Better Hong Kong Foundation (“Foundation”). Around a hundred of experts and scholars from China and overseas as well as senior officials from local governments have attended the Forum and exchanged their views on the strategies and challenges raised by the increasingly fierce competition amongst cities, both locally and internationally.   The Foundation’s Council Members Mrs. Judy YU HONG (Carsac Limited, Managing Director), Ms. Winnie NG (The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd, Director), Executive Director Ms. Karen TANG and Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie CHOW attended the Forum. By the invitation of the Foundation, Mr. CHIU Liang Ching (Ming Pao Weekly Magazine, Columnist), Ms. Chole LAI (South China Morning Post, Shanghai Correspondent), Mr. Christopher WILSON (The Economist, Asia Research Correspondent), Mr. WONG Bun Yuen (Reuters News, Editor and Head of Reuters Chinese News) also joined the Foundation’s delegation. Besides, Business Development Directors of Creative Connexions, UAL Ventures (China) Ltd. Also joined the Foundation’s delegation, they are: Ms. SIU Chung Chi (Business Development Director in the Hong Kong office), Ms. ZHANG Yanyan (Business Director in the Beijing office) and Mr. PAN Yuhu (Business Director in the Shanghai office).   As one of the officiating guests at the opening ceremony of the Forum held on 26th of July 2008, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen TANG was invited to deliver a speech on the occasion. The Forum was then commenced with the presentations on the theme report on “The Sustainable Development of Oriental Countries” and the case study on Yangzhou. The Mayors Round-table Meeting was also conducted successfully with fruitful discussions made in the afternoon session. To welcome the delegates and to show them the beauty of the city, the Yangzhou Government hosted a dinner reception and followed by a night boat trip around the city.   The highlight of the Forum was the release of the Global Urban Competitiveness Report (2007 – 2008) by Dr NI Pengfei, the General Secretary of the GUCP on the last day of the Forum. The study covered over 500 cities around the world in which Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing were ranked 26th, 41st, 64th and 66th respectively. The study also showed that the top 20 cities with highest economic growth are mainly from China. Scholars from Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Germany as well as China Mainland have also shared their studies and research results on urban competitiveness with participants of the Forum. After the closing ceremony, Ms Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation chaired the press conference for the Forum in which over 20 journalists from local and overseas media attended.   Since the inception of the Forum in 2004, this annual Forum has been successfully staged in Tsing Tao, Ottawa, Chengdu, Seoul and Yangzhou respectively. The Foundation would like to congratulate the CASS and Yangzhou Government for the success of this year’s Forum.   For details of the Global Urban Competitiveness Report (2007 – 2008) and presentation materials of some speakers, please click here .     Ms. Karen TANG (first from right), Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, and the guests on the opening ceremony of the Forum, including: Mr. JI Jianye, the local (Yangzhou) Secretary of the Municipal Committee of the CPC, (fifth from right); Mr. CHEN Jiagui, Deputy Director of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Mr. SHI Heping, Deputy Mayor of Suzhou City (sixth from right) Ms. Karen TANG (Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation) spoke on the opening ceremony Media members invited by the Foundation: Mr. WONG Bun Yuen (first from left: Reuters News, Editor and Head of Reuters Chinese News); Mr. Christopher WILSON (second from left: The Economist, Asia Research Correspondent); Ms. Chole LAI (third from left: South China Morning Post, Shanghai Correspondent) and Business Development Directors of Creative Connexions, UAL Ventures (China) Ltd. Invited by the Foundation: Ms. SIU Chung Chi (Business Development Director in the Hong Kong office), Ms. ZHANG Yanyan (Business Director in the Beijing office) and Mr. PAN Yuhu (Business Director in the Shanghai office)(in the back row)back row)

A post-trip press conference was held on 3 July 2008 to brief members of the media about the main issues dealt with during the delegation’s stay in the U.S. Members of the delegation shared their observations and experiences gained from the trip at the press conference. Ms. Karen Tang said that the theme of this year’s trip was “Hong Kong: an ideal place to live and to invest”. “We meant to share the strategic position and value of Hong Kong to China and to the region, especially with its well established core value and system and its proximity to the Mainland” explained Ms. Tang. Mr. Daniel Fung commented that, “The upshot of our full and frank discussions over five days is that the United States have no burning issues with regard to Hong Kong and acknowledge that our governance, economy and rule of law after reversion to Chinese sovereignty have all been a remarkable success, although they will look with interest at our democratic development after 2017. As for China, the United States recognize that Sino-U.S. relations constitute the single most important strategic bilateral relationship in the world of the 21st Century. The conclusion reached by consensus with our interlocutors at the end of our weeklong mission is that, despite challenges in many areas including trade, currency, the environment, security including energy security, human rights, IPR protection, democracy and the rule of law, Sino-US relations will not merely remain stable but will continue to deepen, including deepening into strategic cooperation (including energy security and green tech), and the incoming US President Elect will likely govern from the center.” Mr. James Thompson shared that, “I felt that our dialogue with numerous influential people in New York and Washington helped us relay the importance of Hong Kong’s position in the relationship between China and the United States. I came away from our trip with strong feelings that there is a keen understanding among America’s most influential ‘movers and shakers’ that the world is focusing on China as we enter the Asian Century. Regardless of the outcome of the U.S. presidential election, I have confidence that trade and political relations with the United States will remain strong.” The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Joseph Yu expressed that he was glad to participate in this meaningful trip. He looked forward to more dialogues like these in the future. The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng, who has already participated in the Foundation’s delegation to the U.S three times, believed that, “the Beijing Olympics marks a watershed in the development of China and an opportunity to further boost the international stature of Hong Kong”. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Gerald Chow further explained that, “China’s rise has always been complex and evolving. As it promotes an export-based economy while maintaining domestic stability in today’s flattened world, it is often faced with many daunting challenges. U.S.-Sino relations, in particular, have never before been in a delicate balance with strong nationalistic sentiment on both sides. With the coming U.S. election and perhaps, a more engaging foreign policy towards China with the new administration, this relationship can grow ever stronger through Hong Kong’s role in working as a bridge between these two great nations. That Hong Kong will continue to maintain a special place in the future of China is without question; but it is perhaps more compelling to imagine the possibilities of Hong Kong’s role in a world where China’s influence has never been greater.” Delegation members attended the post-trip press conference: (L to R) Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Daniel Fung, Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Mr. James Thompson

The Finals of the 2nd Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest were successfully held on 28 July 2008. Last year’s Champion, the CNEC Christian College won again in this year’s contest, while the Cheung Chuk Shan College and the PLK Tang Yuk Tien College were proclaimed 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up respectively. The Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School and Ying Wa College were given the Awards of Merit. (Please refer to the below list for the other 10 shortlisted schools). Jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR, the Education Bureau and the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the contest was co-organized with the China Foreign Affairs University, the China Institute of International Studies, Mingpao, China Central Television, Hong Kong Cable TV, Wenweipo, Xinhuanet and China News Services. Sponsors of the contest were Air China and Sino United Publishing (Holdings) Ltd. The five teams competed in three different sections including the mandatory question and answer section, the scenario improvisation section and the compete-to-answer section. Questions covered various aspects such as history of China’s contemporary diplomatic policies, development of international relationships, current issues, 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, etc. Through the agility of their responses and strength of their supporting evidence, the students demonstrated their strong knowledge and understanding of China’s diplomacy. The Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR Mr. Li Gang, the Secretary for Education Mr. Michael Suen and the Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu were the officiating guests and presented trophies to winning teams. Commissioner Lu congratulating the winners and the success of the contest, hailed the young people in Hong Kong for their good team work and keen grasp of China’s foreign policy and commitment and care for their motherland. Judges of the contest included Mr. Zhan Yongxin, the Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR; Mr. Xu Jian, Vice President, China Institute of International Studies; Professor Qin Yaqing, Vice President of China Foreign Affairs University; Mrs Sophie Leung, Legislative Councilor and Prof. John  Leong, President of the Open University of Hong Kong. There were more than 300 attendees. Xinhuanet and people.com.cn had a live broadcast at their networks. The Cable TV also broadcast the contest on 29 August 2008. Details of the contest are available at http://marketing.mingpao.com/foreign_affairs/index.cfm. The 2nd Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was launched in March 2008. A total of 121 local secondary schools have participated in the contest which consisted of first round competition, semifinals and finals. An open competition category for the general public was first established for this year’s contest. Over 6,000 people participated in the open competition in which 61 prizes were awarded. * List of the other 10 shortlisted schools: Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College Sing Ying Secondary School    PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College STFA Lee Shau Kee College    SPHRC Kung Yik She Secondary School La Salle College    CCC Ming Kei College SKH Lam Kau Mow Secondary School    Ma On Shan St. Joseph’s Secondary School Ng Wah Catholic Secondary School  Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu (3rd right) presenting the award to one of the winning teams Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (6th left) and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Yang Zigang (7th left) presenting souvenirs to guests Group photo of guests and winning teams

Co-hosted by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and the Asia Society Hong Kong, the Foundation was pleased to have Ambassador Zhang Yan, China’s Ambassador to India give a luncheon presentation on 18 June 2008. Ambassador Zhang gave a speech entitled “Perspectives on India & Sino-Indian Relations” on the occasion. The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. Albert Ip together with invited guests Mr. C. K. Yeung, Director of University Development and Public Affairs of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Ms. Clara Choi, Executive Producer of Radio and Television Hong Kong joined the luncheon.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation has successfully held its annual delegation to the United States this year. Led by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, this year’s members of the delegation included: – Mr. Daniel Fung, Vice-Chairman of the Salzburg Global Seminar, Board of Governors of the East-West Center, National Delegate of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Chairman of the Broadcasting Authority, Senior Counsel of the Hong Kong Bar, Solicitor-General of Hong Kong (1994 – 98);– Mr. James Thompson, GBS, the Founder and Chairman of the Crown Worldwide Group and former Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong for 2002 and 2003;– Ms. Winnie Ng, Foundation’s Council Member and Executive Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd;– Dr. Gerald Chow, Foundation’s Council Member and Executive Director of Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd; and – Mr. Joseph Yu, Foundation’s Council Member and Chairman of the Roseville Group of Companies. This annual mission to U.S. took place during 15 to 21 June 2008, before the U.S. Presidential Election. Irrespective of whichever candidate succeeds in November, the policies of the incoming President Elect would herald material departures from the present incumbent. With that in mind, the Foundation visited New York and Washington D.C. and took the temperature of all the major players in both metropolises and exchanged views with them. The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. State Department and U.S. Department of Commerce); the Legislative Branch (Congressmen and staffers including those of Senator Obama); think-tanks inside the Beltway (the Brookings Institution, Center for Strategic & International Studies, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, The CATO Institute, The Heritage Foundation, East-West Center, The U.S.-Asia Institute, etc); think-tanks in New York City (The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the Asia Society); professional bodies (American Bar Association); financial institutions (Morgan Stanley); rating agencies (Standard & Poor’s) and media representatives. During the mission, the delegation attended a dinner hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C. for the Chinese delegation of the Strategic Economic Dialogue led by the Vice Premier Wang Qishan. It also participated in public talks and luncheons hosted by the Hong Kong Association of New York, American Bar Association, the Fund for American Studies and the Asia Institute for Political Economy respectively, where Mr. Daniel Fung and Mr. James Thompson gave speeches. The delegation was also invited to luncheons and a dinner hosted by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China based in New York, the Chinese Embassy to the US, and the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN respectively. Detailed Itinerary:  The Better Hong Kong Foundation Delegation to the United States  June 15-21, 2008   New York  ~ Washington D.C. June 16, 2008 (Monday)         New YorkEvent:      Meeting with US Asia Institute Chairman and Co-founder Attendee:            Mr. Norman Lau Kee, Chairman Emeritus, US-Asia Institute;Mrs. Esther G. Kee, Co-founder, US-Asia InstituteVenue:     The Premier HotelAddress: 133 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036 Website:  http://www.usasiainstitute.org Event:      Meeting with Standard and Poor’s Attendees:       Mr. David A. Wyss, Chief Economist & Managing Director, Standard & Poor’s Mr. Michael L. Privitera, Vice President, Public Affairs, Standard & Poor’s Mr. Jitendra Sharma, Executive Managing Director, Credit Risk services & Products, Standard & Poor’sMr. David Wargin, Communications Manager, Standard & Poor’sVenue:     55 Water Street, Conc12 New York  Website:  http://www.standardandpoors.com Event:      Lunch hosted by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China for the delegationAttendees:       Mr. Peng Keyu, the Consul General, The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New York Mr. Kuang Weilin, Vice Consul, The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New YorkMr. Li Qingzhan, Vice Consul, The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New YorkVenue:     520 12th Avenue, New York NY 10036, USA Website:  http://www.nyconsulate.prchina.org Event:      Tea gathering with Asia SocietyAttendee:        Dr. Vishakha Desai, President, Asia SocietyMr. Thomas B. Moore, Senior Vice President- Operations, Asia SocietyMr. Todd Michael Galitz, Vice President, External Affairs, Asia SocietyMr. Orville Schell, Arthur Ross Director, Center on U.S.-China Relations, Asia SocietyMs. Yoshie Ito, Senior Program Officer, U.S. Business Programs, Asia SocietyVenue:     Asia Society – 725 Park Avenue at 70th Street – 5th FloorWebsite:  http://www.asiasociety.org Event:      Meeting with National Committee on United States-China RelationsAttendee:        Dr. Stephen A. Orlins, President, NCUSCRMs. Jan Carol Berris, Vice President, NCUSCR Venue:     National Committee on U.S.-China Relations                71 West 23rd Street, Suite 1901, New YorkWebsite:  http://www.ncuscr.org June 17, 2008 (Tuesday)         New York Event:      Meeting with Morgan StanleyAttendee:         Mr. Richard Berner, Managing Director, Morgan StanleyMr. David Lew, Vice President, Private Wealth Management, Morgan Stanley Mrs. Esther G. Kee, Co-founder, US-Asia InstituteVenue:     1585 Broadway (47th Street entrance), Conference Room 38BWebsite:  http://www.morganstanley.com Event:      Meeting with Weatherhead East Asian Institute, Columbia UniversityAttendees:       Prof. Madeleine Zelin, Dean Lung Professor of Chinese Studies, Director, East Asian National Resource CenterProf. Andrew J. Nathan, Class of 1919 Professor of Political ScienceProf. Robert Barnett, Professor of Contemporary Tibetan Studies, Director, Modern Tibetan Studies ProgramProf. Myron L. Cohen, Professor of Anthropology, Director, Weatherhead East Asian Institute Mr. James Seymour, Senior Research Scholar Ms. Waichi Ho, Associate Director, Weatherhead East Asian InstituteVenue:   Conference Room IAB 918 The International Affairs Building, Room 918, the West Wing, Columbia University, 420 W. 118th Street (on the corner of Amsterdam Avenue). New York, NY 10027Website: http://www.columbia.edu/cu/weai/faculty.html  Event:      Lunch hosted by the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN for the delegationAttendees:       Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary Deputy Permanent Representative, the Permenant Mission of the PRC to the UNMr. Liu Yutong, Chief Press Officer, the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UNMr. Pan Xiongwen, 3rd secretary, the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UNVenue:     350 East 35th Street, between 1st and 2nd Avenue, NY, NY 10016Website:  http://www.china-un.org Event:      Dinner Talk hosted by the Hong Kong Association of New York Speaker: Mr Daniel Fung & Mr James ThompsonAttendees:       HKANY & CUHKAA Members and guestsVenue:     Chiam Restaurant, 160 E 48th St (between 3rd and Lexington Avenues), New York, NY 10017Website:  http://www.hkany.org/mc/page.do June 18, 2008 (Wednesday)   New York/ Washington D.C. Event:      Lunch and Briefing with Congressman and staffer, hosted by the U.S.-Asia Institute Attendees:       Host: Mr. Benjamin Wu, President, U.S.-Asia Institute Mr. Charlie Wilson, Congressman, OhioMs. Jocelyn Hong, Principal, Twenty-First Century Group. Inc.Mr. Wayne Morrison, Specialist in International Trade and Finance, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division, Congressional Research ServiceMr. Robert Jordan, Senior Advisor, U.S.-Asia InstituteMr. Kerry McKenney, Legislative Director for Congressman Donald Payne of New JerseyMs. Tamar Harrington, Program Intern, U.S.-Asia Institute Ms. Julie Chon, Senate Banking CommitteeMr. Jay Branegan, House Foreign Affairs Committee Professional Staff, Senate Foreign Relations Committee     Ms. Stephanie Gidigbi, Legislative Assistant for Congressman Donald PayneVenue:     The Twenty-First Century Group Townhouse, 434 New Jersey Ave. S.E.Washington, D.C.  Website:  http://www.usasiainstitute.org Event:      Meeting with the Legistive Counsel for Senator Barack ObamaAttendee:        Mr. Ian H. SOLOMON, Legislative Counsel, Senator Barack Obama, Illinois Venue:     Office of Senator Barrack Obama, 713 Hart Senate Office Building Event:      Meeting with the U.S. Department of CommerceAttendees:       Ms. Michelle O’Neill, Deputy Under Secretary, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of CommerceMr. Thomas R. Dycus, International Trade Specialist, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of CommerceMr. Aaron S. Brickman, Director, Invest in America International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of CommerceVenue：14th and Constitution Avenue, N.W. Room 3842, Washington, DC 20230Website: http://www.commerce.gov Event:      Dinner hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce in honor of PRC Vice Premier Wang Qishan, and the Strategic Economic Dialogue Chinese DelegationCo-host with the US-China Business Council and the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations.Attendees:       His Excellency Wang Qishan, Vice Premier of the State Council of PRCMembers of the SED Chinese DelegationVenue:     Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, 2660 Woodley Road, NW, Washington, D.C.Website:  http://www.uschamber.com June 19, 2008 (Thursday)              Washington  D.C. Event:     Meeting with the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies, The Brookings InstitutionAttendees:       Mr. Richard Bush, Director, CNAPSVenue:     1775 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC  20036       Website:  http://www.brookings.edu Event:     Meeting with the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific AffairsAttendees:       Mr. Thomas J. Christensen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of East Asian & Pacific Affairs and his staff Venue:     2201 C Street, N.W. Room 6205Website:  http://www.state.gov/p/eap/  Event:      Lunch with media, the HK Journalism Fellowship alumniAttendee:        Mr. Bing Li, Reporter, Sing Tao Newspapers New York Ltd.Ms. Diedtra Henderson, Communication & Public Affairs, Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of AmericaMs. Sara Kehaulani Goo, Financial Day/Web Editor, The Washington Post Ms. Reena Advani , Associate Editor, Morning Edition, National Public Radio Venue:     Penang Restaurant; 1837 M Street NW, Washington DC 20036 Event:      Meeting with  the Carnegie Endowment for International PeaceAttendees:       Mr. Douglas H. Paal, Director and Senior Associate of the China Program  Venue:     1779 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20036Website:  http://www.carnegieendowment.org/ Event:      Talk at the American Bar Association Speaker: Mr Daniel Fung; Remarks by Mr James ThompsonTopic:      Hong Kong’s continued competitiveness and its relationship with ChinaAttendees:       Mr. Aaron Schildhaus, Chair, Section of International Law, American Bar Association Mr. Michael E. Burke, Williams MullenProf. James V. Feinerman, Associate Dean, International & Graduate Programs, James M. Morita Professor of Asian Legal Studies, Geogetown University Law Center Mr. Peter D. Ehrenhaft, attorneyMs. Susan Roosevelt Weld, J.D., Ph. D., East Asian Legal StudiesMr. Maurice Loo, Deputy Director-General, Hong Kong Economic & Trade OfficeVenue:     John Marshall Room, 9th floor, the ABA building                740 15th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20005-1019Website:  http://www.abanet.org June 20, 2008 (Friday)            Washington  D.C.Event:      Meeting with the Center for Strategic and International StudiesAttendees:       Mr. Charles W. Freeman III, Freeman Chair in China StudiesVenue:    1800 K Street, N.W. 5th Floor Washington, DC  20006Website:  http://www.csis.org Event:      Meeting with East-West CenterAttendees:       Mr. Charles E. Morrison, President, East-West Center Ambassador Raymond Burghardt, Director, East-West Seminars, East-West Center in HawaiiMr. Satu P. Limaye, Director, East-West Center in Washington Mr. Mark Borthwick, Director, United States Asia Pacific CouncilMr. Justin Liang, Projects & Outreach Manager, East-West Center in WashingtonMr. Aaron Siirila, Program Associate, East-West Center in WashingtonMs. Barbara P. Wanner, Senior Projects Coordinator, United States Asia Pacific Council, East-West Center in WashingtonVenue:     1819 L Street NW, Suite 200Website:  www.EastWestCenter.org Event:      Luncheon Talk hosted by Asia Institute for Political Economy, The Fund for American StudiesSpeaker:  Mr James Thompson & Mr Daniel Fung      Attendee:        Introductory remarks by Mr. Roger R. Ream, President, Asia Institute for Political Economy, The Fund for American Studies Mr. Edward J. Turner, Vice President, Development, The Fund for American StudiesOthersVenue:     Asia Institute for Political Economy, The Fund for American Studies1706 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20009Website:  http://www.tfas.org Event:      Meeting with the Heritage FoundationAttendees:       Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center, The Heritage FoundationMr. John J. Tkacik, JR, Senior Research Fellow, Asian Studies Center, The Heritage FoundationMr. Harvey J. Feldman, Distinguished Fellow, The Heritage FoundationMr. Nicholas Hamisevicz, Research Assistant, Asian Studies Center, The Heritage FoundationVenue:     214 Massachusetts Avenue, N.E. Washington DC Website:  http://www.heritage.org Event:      Meeting with the CATO InstituteAttendees:       Mr. James A. Dorn, Vice President for Academic AffairsVenue:     1000 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington DC Website:  http://www.cato.org Event:      Dinner hosted by the Embassy of PRC to the U.S. for the delegationAttendees:       Mr. Xie Feng, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the PRC to the U.S. Mr. Zhangping, Minister Counselor (Congressional Affairs), Embassy of the PRC to the U.S.Mr. Li Liansheng, Counselor, Embassy of the PRC to the U.S.Mr. Shen Xin, , Embassy of the PRC to the U.S.Venue:     Embassy of PRC to the U.S., 2300 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC Website:  http://www.china-embassy.org BIOGRAPHY Mr. Daniel R. Fung, SBS, SC, QC, JPDaniel R. Fung, the first person of Chinese extraction to serve as Solicitor General of Hong Kong, doing so under respectively Governor Chris Patten and Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa straddling the territory’s reversion to Chinese sovereignty (1994-8), is Senior Counsel of the Hong Kong Bar specializing in constitutional and commercial litigation and the Chairman of Des Voeux Chambers, voted by Asia Law & Practice as Chambers of the Year for 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004 & 2005, and an accredited China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC) arbitrator. Mr Fung serves concurrently as Chairman of the Broadcasting Authority, an industry regulator of television and radio broadcasting in and out of Hong Kong serving as Asia’s media and communications hub. Mr Fung is Co-Chairman of the United Nations Peace & Development Foundation (UNPDF), President of the International Law Association (ILA) Hong Kong Chapter, Honorary President of the International Association of Industry & Commerce (IAIC), Vice Chairman of the Salzburg Global Seminar (SGS), Vice-President of the Academy of Experts (TAE), Member of the Board of Governors of the East West Center (EWC), Council Member of International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), national delegate to the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Chairman of the China Law Council (CLC), Council Member of China Law Society (CLS), Founding Governor of the China-US Exchange Foundation, Chairman of the International Advisory Board to the Government of Shanghai Xuhui District and member of the Strategic Development Commission of the Hong Kong Government.  Made a Fellow of his alma mater University College London in 2005 where he graduated LLB (1974) and LLM (1978) and a member of Middle Temple since 1974, the English Bar since 1975 and the Hong Kong Bar since 1977, Mr Fung was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1990 and Senior Counsel in 1997. Mr Fung served on the Basic Law Consultative Committee (1985-90) from its inception to promulgation as Hong Kong’s mini-constitution, as Deputy Judge of the High Court (1992-4) and on the Central Policy Unit of the Hong Kong Government (1993-4). Mr Fung was Visiting Scholar to Harvard Law School (1998-9), Senior Visiting Fellow to Yale Law School (1999), Distinguished Fulbright Scholar for Hong Kong to the United States (2000), Visiting Professor to Peking University Law School (2007- ) and to Sun Yat Sen University Law School in China (2004-7), member of the World Bank International Advisory Council on Law & Justice (1999-2005), special advisor to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on corporate governance in China (2001) and on rule of law capacity building in Cambodia and Laos (2000-2), non-executive director of the Hong Kong Securities & Futures Commission (1999–2004) and the Hong Kong Airport Authority (1999-2005). Among various publications, Mr Fung is the Joint General Editor of Arbitration in China (2004) and a contributing author to Democracy & the Rule of Law (2001) and The Confluence of Affluence: The Pearl River Delta Story (2005). Mr. James E. Thompson, GBSJames E. Thompson, GBS is the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Crown Worldwide Group of Companies.  Crown Worldwide is a logistics company performing various types of warehousing and transportation services throughout the world. The Crown Group is the largest privately owned company in the field of international removals with over 200 worldwide locations in 50 countries around the world.  Crown is also a leader in the field of document management with over seventeen million cartons of business documents managed from its worldwide facilities. Mr. Thompson graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering.  He came to Asia shortly after completion of his university studies and has lived in Japan and Hong Kong ever since.  He is a member of the International Advisory Board of the San Jose State University Business School. The Crown Worldwide Group employs over 4,000 full time staff around the world as well as a large number of contracted personnel.  The company has been awarded the prestigious Hong Kong Award for Services in Export Marketing, and received the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Innovative Services Award twice.  Crown has also received the DHL/South China Morning Post International Award as Hong Kong’s best international company. Mr. Thompson serves as the Chairman of HKTDC Logistics Services Advisory Committee.  He is currently a member of the Investment Promotion Ambassador Scheme, a Board Member of Ocean Park Corporation and a non-executive Director of the Board of the Wharf (Holdings) Ltd and a member of TDC HK-EU Business Cooperation Committee.  He served as a Council member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council from 2002 to 2004, a member of the Hong Kong Trade and Industry Advisory Board and a member of the ICAC Advisory Committee on Corruption.  He also served two terms as the Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong for 2002 and 2003. Additionally, Mr. Thompson serves as a member of the Hong Kong Forum and Vision 2047 which are organizations that actively discuss Hong Kong issues with visiting politicians, journalists and academics that visit Hong Kong.  He is also a member of the Board of the Hong Kong-America Centre and has been a delegate representing Hong Kong on numerous Hong Kong Trade Development Council trade missions around the world. Mr. Thompson also serves as Chairman or as a Board member of numerous charitable organizations.  His particular interests are charities related to children, cancer and education.  He is the member of the corporate fund raising committee of Changing Young Lives Foundation, a member of the Executive Committee of the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care, is on the Advisory Board of the Salvation Army and a trustee of Outward Bound.  He currently chairs the Annual “Hike for Hospice” Charity event. Mr. Thompson was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star, Hong Kong’s second highest awards, by the Hong Kong Government in 2003. Mr. Thompson is a U.S. citizen and a permanent resident of Hong Kong having lived here for 30 years.  His wife, Sally is British.  His two children Jennifer and James Jr. work for Crown New York and Crown Beijing respectively. Miss Karen Tang Shuk-takMiss Karen Tang was appointed as the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation on June 1, 2006. Prior to joining the Foundation, Miss Tang was the Director of Communications of the University of Hong Kong. She was responsible for managing the university’s external relations and internal communications, and reported to the institution’s Vice-Chancellor (equivalent to President in US university system). Miss Tang has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from the Chinese University of Hong Kong and a Master of Arts degree in Public Administration from the University of Hong Kong. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, she joined the Basic Law Consultative Committee of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the Administration Officer responsible for the secretarial work of the Sub-group on Political Structure. After completing the consultation work, she joined the Ming Pao Group, a Hong Kong based media group. During her 7-year tenure with the Group, she was appointed to a number of posts, including the Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Administration and Personnel Manager, Business Development Manager, Deputy General Manager of Magazines Division, and General Manager of Yazhou Zhoukan (the Chinese Asiaweek). Miss Tang continued to develop her career in the media and multimedia industries, and has served as Deputy General Manager of the Chinese Television Network, General Manager of the Hongkong Telecom IMS (Interactive Multimedia Services), Director of Multimedia Services and Director of E-commerce under the Hutchison Whampoa Group. She worked for the Tung Chee Hwa Election Office (the then Chief Executive of the HKSAR) in 2001 as the Director of Administration Division, responsible for the coordination of the election campaign. Miss Tang is now Council Member of the Lingnan University, Member of the Committee on Performing Arts; Council Member of the Hong Kong Macau Research Centre of the Shanghai Academy of Social Science; and Invest Guangzhou International Advisor.  Miss Winnie Ng, BA, MBA (Chicago), MPA (Harvard)Ms Winnie Ng is Director of Transport International Holdings, KMB and Founder of RoadShow Holdings.  She won Yazhou Zhoukan Young Chinese Entrepreneur Award in 2003, was named one of China’s 100 Outstanding Women Entrepreneurs and a Mason Fellow of Harvard University in 2006. She has successfully revamped and rejuvenated KMB’s image and positioned KMB as a powerful out-of-home media sales tool by raising profiles of bus body, bus shelter, and in-bus advertising.  Her introduction of champagne gold bus livery has reenergized the 75 year-old brand.  She spearheaded listing of RoadShow (stock code: 0888), which business model has been adopted by many companies in HK, China and over the world. She is also Director of Bauhinia Foundation Research Centre; Director of HK Cyberport; Executive Committee Member of HK Council of Social Service; Council Member of Better HK Foundation; Director of Habitat for Humanity China and Vice Chairman of Council of China’s Foreign Trade, China Council for Promotion of International Trade. She holds an MBA from University of Chicago and an MPA from Harvard University.   Meeting with US Asia Institute Chairman and Co-founder Left to Right: Mr. Norman Lau Kee, Chairman Emeritus, US-Asia Institute; Dr. Gerald Chow, Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation, Executive Director, Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd; Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation; Mr. James E. Thompson, The Founder and Chairman of the Crown Worldwide Group;Mrs. Esther G. Kee, Co-founder, US-Asia Institute. The delegation met with Standard and Poor’s. Ms. Karen Tang presented the Foundation’s souvenir to Mr. David A. Wyss (Chief Economist & Managing Director of Standard & Poor’s, forth from left).

The death toll rose to 32 thousand as of 2:00 p.m. 18 May 2008 while the number of the injured reached 220 thousand from the powerful 8 magnitude earthquake in Sichuan May 12, 2008. A condolence book has been opened in The Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR starting from 19 May 2008 (Monday) 10:30 a.m. – noon; 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m to mourn those who died in the earthquake. Members of the public are invited to sign the condolence book to express their sorrow. The Better Hong Kong Foundation has expressed its deepest condolence to the victims in this catastrophe by signing the condolence book. Foundation members took action today include: the Foundation’s Trustee: Special Assistant of Chia Tai Group Li Xu-Hua; Council Members: Vice Chairman of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd Roy C.P. Chung, Executive Director of Kowloon and Motor Bus Winnie Ng, Chairman of Roseville Group Joseph Yu, Deputy Managing Director of Hip Shing Hong Mr David Fong, Executive Managing Director & General Manager of Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd. Mr Woo Chu, Thomas, as well as Executive Director Karen Tang and Manager Ms Brenda Wong of the Foundation.

The Semifinals of the 2nd Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was held at the HKBU Affiliated School Wong Kam Fai Secondary and Primary School on 26 April, 2008. The winners of the semifinals are: Po Leung Kuk Tang Yuk Tien College, Ying Wa College, Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School and Cheung Chuk Shan College, who will compete for the championship in the finals on 28 June, 2008. The contestants of Ying Wa College, SPHRC Kung Yik She Secondary School, S.K.H. Lam Kau Mow Secondary School, Ma On Shan St Joseph’S Secondary School and Cheung Chuk Shan College with the judges. The contestants of Po Leung Kuk Tang Yuk Tien College, Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College, Sing Yin Secondary School, STFA Lee Shau Kee College and CCC Ming Kei College with the judges. The contestants of CNEC Christian College, PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College, Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School, La Salle College and Ng Wah Catholic Secondary School with the judges.

Please refer to the Chinese version Group photo of representatives of the organizing parties and the participating schools Students enjoy the photo tour by Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in HKSAR

Ms Winnie Ng, the Foundation’s Council Member (Middle row, 8th from the left) and Ms Karen Tang, the Foundation’s Executive Director (Middle row, 7th from the left), with President Hu Jintao, Chief Executive Donald Tsang, and the business and community leaders from HK and Macau at the Boao Forum For Asia Annual Conference 2008, April 11 -13.

The Seminar and Press Conference of 2008 China Urban Competitiveness Study (Hong Kong) is held in Hong Kong on April 1, 2008. It is organized by The Better Hong Kong Foundation and co-organized by Institute of Finance and Trade Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. “The 2008 Blue Book on China Urban Competitiveness” project is led by Dr Pengfei Ni in the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The urban competitiveness of 200 cities in mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau is analyzed. The top 10 cities in overall urban competitiveness are: Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Guangzhou, Kaohsiung, Suzhou, Hangzhou and Tianjin. Hong Kong also ranked 1st in 2006 and 2007. Hong Kong also ranked 1st in efficiency competitiveness, structural competitiveness and quality competitiveness. Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation said that Hong Kong is ranked top among all cities in China in three consecutive years indicating strong competitiveness of Hong Kong. However to maintain its competitiveness Hong Kong has to work with other cities in PRD, to achieve further developments for the whole region. To strengthen urban competitiveness, Hong Kong should also strengthen infrastructure in transportation, communication, and industrial and commercial sectors, expand the scope of financial services to consolidate Hong Kong’s role as the financial centre of Asia.” For more details of the report, please click here

The Financial Secretary of the HKSARG the Honourable John Tsang has presented the 2008/2009 Government Budget on 5 March 2008. Members and guests of the Better Hong Kong Foundation attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon to listen to the Financial Secretary’s further eleboration on the budget and his principles of managing the Government Budget. (From left)Asia Business Editor of The Economist Mr. Thomas Easton, Executive Director of the Foundation Ms. Karen Tang and CEO of Employers’ Federation of Hong Kong Mr. Louis Pong. (From left)Executive Assistant to Chairman (Commercial)of Wheelock Properties (HK) Ltd Mr. Douglas Woo, Business Desk Senior Editor of South China Morning Post Mr. Kenneth Howe and Chief Economist of HK Trade Development Council Mr. Edward Leung (From left)Associate Dean (Development) of School of Economics & Finance of the University of HK Prof. Maurice Tse and Assistant News Editor of News & Public Affairs Division of Asia Television Ltd. Mr. Law Chen Pang

The Foundation hosted a luncheon for the Fulbright scholars who were attending the Fulbright China Research Forum organized by the Hong Kong – America Center here in Hong Kong. Members and guests of the Foundation attended the luncheon to exchange views about the development of China and Hong Kong with the scholars. The Fulbright China Research Forum is an annual meeting of Fulbright scholars who are conducting research in mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The scholars are post-graduates from America, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The Forum is organized by the Hong Kong American Center and supported by 8 universities in Hong Kong. The Fulbright Scholarship and the Forum are sponsored by the US Embassy in Beijing, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and the U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong. Members and guests of the Foundation attended the luncheon included: Dr. Roy C.P. Chung, Council Member, the Better Hong Kong Foundation Mr. Ben Wong, Council Member, the Better Hong Kong Foundation Ms. Winnie Ng, Council Member, the Better Hong Kong Foundation Mr. Woo Chu, Council Member, the Better Hong Kong Foundation Mr. Douglas Woo, Executive Assistant to Chairman (Commercial), Wheelock Properties (HK) Ltd., representative of the Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Peter Woo Mr. Martin Yan, Chairman, Chef Martin Yan’s Culinary Arts Center Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies Dr. Allen Fung, Managing Partner, McKinsey & Co. Mr. Peter Liu, Principal, Heidrick & Struggles Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director , The Better Hong Kong Foundation The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang welcome the Fulbright Scholars. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung made a welcome remark The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng exchanged with the Fulbright Scholars The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Ben Wong (4th from left)exchanged with the Fulbright Scholars Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies Mr. Joseph Yu exchanged with the Fulbright Scholars The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu (first from right, rear row)and guest Mr. Martin Yan (forth from right, rear row)took picture with the Fulbright Scholars. The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu (1st from right, rear row), guest Mr. Peter Liu (2nd from right, rear row)and guest Mr. Martin Yan (2nd from right, front row)took picture with the Fulbright Scholars. Hong Kong -America Center Dr. Glenn Shive (right)with the companion of the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (left)presented a souvenir to the Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Peter Woo’s representative Mr. Douglas Woo (middle) Hong Kong -America Center Dr. Glenn Shive (right)with the companion of the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (left)presented a souvenir to the Foundation’s guest Managing Partner of McKinsey & Co. Dr. Allen Fung (middle) (From left)Mr. Ben Wong, Mr. Peter Liu, Mr. Joseph Yu, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Martin Yan, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dr. Glenn Shive, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Douglas Wu, Mr. Woo Chu and Dr. Allen Fung

The Better Hong Kong Foundation hosts annual spring luncheon for Consul Generals and Heads of Chambers of Commerce in Hong Kong every year. This year the Foundation has invited the Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR Mr. Yang Zigang as guest speaker, near 40 Consul Generals and Heads of Chambers of Commerce attended the luncheon. Members of the Foundation attending the luncheon include: Chairman of the Executive Committee, Dr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Mr. Victor Cha, Council Members Mr. Woo Chu, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dr. Roy C.P. Chung, and representative of Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. (From left)The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Trustee Mr. Victor Cha, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Yang Zigang and the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Ronnie Chan Near 40 Consul Generals and heads of Chambers of Commerce attended the luncheon Deputy Cmmissioner Mr. Yang Zigang speaks at the luncheon (From Left)Consul General of Sardi Arabia Mr. Alaudeen A. Alskary and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Yang Zigang. (From left)Chairman of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Association Mr. Henry Steiner and the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Executive Director of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Andrew Work (From Left)President of the American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Jack Maisano and The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng and Dr. Roy Chung (From Left)Chairman of the Danish Chamber of Commerce Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen, Vice-chairman of Swedish Chamber of Commerce Ms. Eva Idling and Chairman of Korean Chamber of Commerce Mr. Kang Ho Cheon (From left)Consul General of Spain Mr. Juan Luis Flores, Consul General of Belgium Mr. Michel Malherbe, Chairman of Danish Chamberof Commerce Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen and The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Ronnie Chan (From left)The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Danish Chamberof Commerce Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen, The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (From Left)Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Steve Dekrey, Consul General of Poland Mr. Ryszard Jacek Potocki, Consul General of Sardi Arabia Mr. Alaudeen A. Alaskary and Deputy Consul General of Switzerland Mr. Johann U. Muller The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng and Consul General of Finland Mr. Timo Rajakangas (From left)Chairman of Korean Chamber of Commerce Mr. Kang Ho Cheon and Deputy Consul General of Korea Mr. Lee Youngho (From left)The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Mr. Victor Cha,Consul General of Sardi Arabia Mr. Alaudeen A. Alskary and Trustee Tan Sri Dato David Chiu’s representative Mr. Bill Mok (From left)Consul General of Belgium Mr. Michel Malherbe and the Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu (From left)Consul General of Sardi Arabia Mr. Alaudeen A. Alskary, Consul of Consulate General of Hungary Mr. Janos Chalupa, Mr. Bill Mok and Consul General of Belgium Mr. Michel Malherbe (From left)Chief Executive of the Australian Chamber of Commerce Ms. Deborah Biber,Head of Trade & Economics of Office of the European Commission Mr. Felipe Palacios Sureda, Deputy Consul General of Switzerland Mr. Johann U. Muller, the Foundation’s Executive Diector Ms. Karen Tang, Consul General of Spain Mr. Juan Luis Flores and Vice-chairman of Swedish Chamber of Commerce Ms. Eva Idling (From left)The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu, Deputy Consul General of Australia Mr. David Livingstone and Chairman of the Danish Chamber of Commerce Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen (From left)Consul General of Japan Mr. Shigekazu Sato, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Dr. Ronnie Chan and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Yang Zigang (From left)The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Steve Dekrey, Consul General of Sardi Arabia Mr. Alaudeen A. Alskary and Consul of Consulate General of Hungary Mr. Janos Chalupa The Foundation’s Executive Chairman Dr. Ronnie Chan welcome Deputy Commissioner Mr. Yang Zigang The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha gave a vote of thanks The Foundation’s trustee Mr. Victor Cha presents a souvenir to Mr. Yang Zigang

Please refer to the Chinese version. Representatives of the Orgainizing parties spoke at the briefing session. (From left) The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Spokesman of the Commissioner’s Office Mr. Song Ronghua, Principal Curriculum Development Officer Mr. Benjamin Yung and Chief Curriculam Development Officer Mr. Tony Lai The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang introduced the awards to the winning teams. More than 100 students and teachers attended the briefing session

The Foundation was the supporting partner of the Professional Media Conference:”Changing Dynamics in Asia Pacific: Might, and Media Challenges” organized by the East West Center. This conference provided the most current and reliable information on the big stories in the Asia Pacific region, as well as the lesser known but important emerging issues.  Attendees were able to get the latest on Asia’s dynamic media and the challenges facing journalists in the region, and to exchange views with professional media from the US and the Asia Pacific community. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the conference and was joined by the Hong Kong outstanding journalist Ms. Lavender Cheung Wan-yim, who has been selected and sponsored by the Foundation.

Members and guests of the Better Hong Kong Foundation joined the annual dinner of the Hong Kong News Executives’ Association. Members made use of the chance to meet with old friends from the local media and enjoyed a pleasant evening. Members and guests attending the dinner included, The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’David Chiu The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Leung Wai Fung The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu Convenor of the HKSAR Executive Council Hon. C.Y. Leung Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong Prof. Tsui Lap Chee Executive Director of the Carsac Limited Mrs. Judy Hong Chief Editor of Mingpao Weekly Mr. K.C. Lung Senior Producer of RTHK Ms. Clara Choi Spokesman of the Commissioner’s Office of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR Mr. Song Ronghua The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang Members and guests of the Foundation sang a song. (From Left, rear row)Ms. Clara Choi,Mr. Song Ronghua,Mr. Woo Chu,Mrs. Judy Hong,Mr. K.C. Lung,Mr. Leung Wai Fung and Ms. Karen Tang (From left, front row)Prof. Tsui Lap Chee, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Hon. C.Y. Leung and Dr. Roy Chung

Members of the Foundation were invited to attend the Four Seas Forum of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, held on 12 December 2007. The Forum has been held in UK, France, USA and Singapore, with Hong Kong being the final stop. The event was attended by eminent economists and CEOs for an exchange of views on China’s latest international trade developments. Product safety was highlighted as one of the most important issues.

Council Memebers of the Better Hong Kong Foundation Dr. Roy Chung, Dato’ SJ Wong and Ms. Winnie Ng and the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the luncheon organized by the Asia Society and co-organized by the Committee of 100. Two prominent U.S. media figures, David Brooks, Columnist, New York Times and Juan Williams, senior correspondent with National Pulic Radio provided their perspectives on the U.S. President Election. The Foundation has also invited the following guests to join the luncheon: Deputy Consul General of US in HK Mr. Christopher Marut, Director of Public Affairs Section of the US Consulate General Mr. Anthony Hutchinson, Edito-at-large of the SCMP Mr. Chris Yeung, Asia Business Director of the Economist Mr. Thomas Easton, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Politics and Public Administration of the University of HK Dr. Peter Cheung and Political Editor of the Standard Ms. Carrie Chan. (from right) The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ SJ wong, Deputy Consul General of US in HK Mr. Christopher Marut and The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. (from right)The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr.Thomas Easton, Mr. David Fong and The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ SJ Wong

The Better Hong Kong Foundation is pleased to be one of the founding organizers of the Heart of Gold Awards which were launched last year. These awards are an annual salute to Hong Kong artistes and businesses that have made worthy contributions to sustainable development.   This year’s award ceremony was held on 15th November 2007, and award receipients include Ms. Gigi Leung and the HSBC. Both of the award receivers have made notable contributions to our society. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Vice-Chairman of One Media Group Mr. KC Cheung, Chairman of Peace and Development Foundation Ms. Kathy Chiu and member Ms. Betty Silva conferred awards to Ms. Gigi Leung and representative of HSBC at the ceremony. Other founding organizers of the Awards include Ming Pao Weekly, the United Nations Development Programme and the Peace and Development Foundation. (From left)The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Council Member Mr. Woo Chu and Mr. Kam Kwok Leung. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, the Vice-Commissioner of China’s Foreign Ministry in HKSAR Mr. Yang Zigang (2nd from left), and Spokesman Mr. Song Ronghua (1st from right) The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (2nd from right)and Vice-Chairman of One Media Group Mr. K C Cheung (1st from right),Chairman of Peace and Development Foundation Ms. Kathy Chiu and member Ms. Betty Silva (1st and 2nd from left) conferred awards to Ms. Gigi Leung and representative of HSBC (3rd and 4th from left). (From right) The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Chairman of the Peace and Development Foundation Ms. Kathy Chiu conferred the award to Ms. Gigi Leung.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was pleased to be invited as one of the panel of judges of the Prime Adwards for Corporate Social Responsibilty 2007. Ms. Tang attended the award presentation ceremony and was also one of the guests to present the awards. The Prime Adwards for Corporate Social Responsibilty 2007 is a recognition to those corporations which arew willing to shoulder the corporate social responsibilty by different kinds of contributions to the community. The organizing committee will choose a beneficiary organization every yaer, and this year Po Leung Kuk was selected. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang with officiating guest Hon. Alan Leong and Chairman of Po Leung Kuk Mrs. Lau Chan Siu Bo Guests proposed a toast at the ceremony. (2nd from right, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang) The Foundation’s Eexecutive Director Ms. Karen Tang presented souvenir to awarding company

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”)is pleased to partner with the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong to launch the seminar on “The Chinese World IV: Emergence, at the crossroad!”. The format of the seminar was a one day round table conference, led by journalists, political and economic leaders. The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu, Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Communications Manager Ms. Alice Mak have attended the seminar. The Foundation has also invited Professor (Chair) of the Department of Economics & Finance of the City University of Hong Kong Professor Stephen Cheung and Associate Dean (Development) of School of Economics & Finance of the University of Hong Kong Professor Maurice Tse to attend the seminar.  The seminar was attended by nearly 300 business leaders from Hong Kong, France and China, and Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development of HKSAR Mr. Frederick Ma and French Minister for Companies and Foreign Trade Mr. Herv’e Novelli were invited to give openeing remarks at the seminar. Former French Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Hurbert Ve’drine was invited as the keynote speaker of the lunch debate after the morning session of the seminar. The whole event was concluded with a Gala Dinner chaired by French Minister for Companies and Foreign Trade in the presence of one of the co-chair of Hong Kong France Business Partnership French dinner and cultural event Mr. David Lie. The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Woo Chu and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the seminar. (From left)The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, guests Mr. Wong Man Kong and Mr. Heung Shue Fai joined the Gala Dinner The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang took picture with guests at the Gala Dinner, (from left)Professor Maurice Tse, Mr. Peter Liu and Mr. Thomas Easton. The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ SJ Wong (1st from right) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang took picture with guests Professor Maurice Tse (2nd from left) and Mr. Peter Liu (1st from left) The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ SJ Wong and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang with guests Mr. Xue Yongxing (1st from right) and Mr. Yau Shing Mu (1st from left) The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ SJ Wong and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang with guest Mr. Heung Shue Fai(1st from right).

The Chief Executive of HKSAR, Honourable Donald Tsang delivered his first Policy Address after his re-election on 10th October 2006.  The Better Hong Kong Foundation attended a joint business community luncheon to meet with the Chief Executive. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. W F Leung and Council Members Ms Winnie Ng took the opportunity to learn more about the initiatives put forth by the government and to express their views about the Policy Address to the Chief Executive.. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. W F Leung (middle) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the luncheon with the guests, (from left)Deputy Editor of SCMP Mr. Cliff Bundle, Cheif Editor of Hong Kong Economic Times Mr. Eric Chan and Hong Kong News Editor of China Daily HK Edition Mr. Albert Au Yeung. The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng (1st from left) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang(2nd from right) with the guests: (from left)Head of Programme & Content Management of RTHK Ms. Miranda Chan, Managing Director of German Pool (Hong Kong) Limited Mr. Edward Chan and Group Managing Director of Hutchison Harbour Ring Limited Ms. Michelle Chan.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“The Foundation”) worked with the US East-West Centre in organising an annual fellowship programs for journalists from US major media from 12 to 26 September this year. This year’s program included a 4-day seminar in Honolulu and a 12-day study tour to Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou and Hong Kong. (Detailed list of participants and itinerary of the study tour see below.)   The study tour was led by the Executive Director of the Foundation Ms. Karen Tang and arranged with the support and assistance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and was accompanied by Deputy Director of Europe, North America & Oceania Division, Information Department Mr. Huang Liming and the Communications manager Ms. Alice Mak. During the stay in Beijing, the group met with key  Government officials including the Minister of the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the State Council Mr. Li Changjiang; Director General of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs Mr. Liu Jieyi and Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Qin Gang; as well as senior officials from other state departments including the State Development and Reform Commission and the State Environment Protection Administration. The group also visited the Beijing Organizing Committee for Games of the XXIX Olympics and the Sohu.com. The Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing hosted a luncheon for the group.   The second part of the study tour was a 4-day programme in Shanghai and Suzhou. With the assistance of the Hong Kong & Macao Studies Centre of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, the group visited and met with the Shanghai Municipal and Reform Commission, Shanghai Stock Exchange, Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination. The meeting with Secretary of Discipline Committee of Bank of China Shanghai Branch Mr. Tang Jiaqi was especially useful for the journalists to understand the finance and banking systems of China.   The Foundation has also arranged the group to meet with senior executives of the prominent overseas and Hong Kong based enterprises including the General Motor, Hang Lung Group Ltd. and Shui On Land Ltd.. These meetings allowed the journalists to understand more about Shanghai’s rapid economic development.   The Vice Mayor of the People’s Government of Suzhou Mr. Zhou Weiqiang, warmly received the group by hosting a dinner and briefed the group the economic developments and city planning of Suzhou.   The last stop of the study tour was Hong Kong where the group met with major officials of the HKSAR Government, including the Financial Secretary Mr. John Tsang, the Secretary for Justice Mr. Wong Yan-Lung, the Secretary for the Environment Mr. Edward Yau, Permanent Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Mr. Joshua Law and the Government Economist Mr. K.C. Kwok.   The Foundation has organized a night cruise to Lamma Island for a seafood dinner and to chat with the Foundation’s members and guests from Hong Kong’s local media, academia and business sector. The Chairman of the Foundation’s Executive Committee Dr. Ronnie Chan also hosted a dinner for the group. Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Council Members Dato’ SJ Wong, Ms Winnie Ng and Mr. Woo Chu also joined the dinner and exchanged with the journalists.   The Chairman of the Hong Kong Coalition of Professional Services and Convenor of the Executive Council of HKSAR Hon. C.Y. Leung and The Chairman of Ocean Park and Chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Mr. Allan Zeman also hosted luncheons for the group. During the luncheons, the journalists were able to interact with Hong Kong’s professionals, business leaders, as well as dedicated HK people involving in HK’s public services.   The group also met with Deputy Commissioner of MFA in HKSAR Mr. Yang Zigang, former Chief Executive of HKSAR and Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Mr. C.H. Tung, the Chief Financial Officer of HK Exchange and Clearing Ltd. Mr. Archie Tsim, and CEO of Equestrian Events (HK) of the Games of the XXIX Olympiad Company Ltd. Mr. W.K. Lam.   The Executive Director of the Foundation Ms. Karen Tang was grateful to the support of its long-term partner East West Center and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The visit will not be a success without their support. It was very well received by all the participants as one of the participants said “The fellowship was a great learning experience. It has immensely broadened and deepened what I know about China and Hong Kong.”Ms. Tang hopes that the program will continue to serve as a useful platform for better communication between HK, China and the US community.   List of Participants: 1.  Ryan Blethen, Associate Editorial Page Editor, The Seattle Times, Seattle, Washington 2.  Frank Craig, Editor, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 3.  Dee DePass, Business Reporter, Star Tribune, Minneapolis, Minnesota 4.  Thomas Easton, Asia Business Editor, The Economist, Hong Kong 5.  Diedtra Henderson, Staff Writer, The Boston Globe, Washington D.C. 6.  Douglas Lyons, Senior Editorial Writer, South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 7.  Gary Rosen, Managing Editor, Commentary, New York, New York 8.  Octavio Saenz, News Anchor, KNVO Univision 48, XRIO Fox 2, McAllen, Texas 9.  Lee Tham-Rogers, Assistant Copy Chief, Foreign Desk, Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, California   Detailed Itinerary:   BEIJING 15 Sept (Sat) Journalists arrive Beijing 16 Sept (Sun) Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Red Capital. 17 Sept (Mon) Peking University – Exchange session with students of Peking University, tour around the University campus General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) of the State Council Lunch hosted by AQSIQ Meeting with Director Sun Weide, Media and Communication Department,Beijing Organizing Committee for Games of the XXIX Olympics Tour around the Display Centre and Construction Sites of the sports venues. Hutong (Hou Hai) 18 Sept (Tue) Breakfast with new media and private enterprise in China: Sohu.com State Development and Reform Commission Meeting and lunch hosted by the Deputy Director of HKSAR Government Beijing Bureau State Environmental Protection Administration Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dinner hosted by MFA SHANGHAI  19 Sept (Wed) Reception Dinner hosted by Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences 20 Sept (Thu) Briefing by Managing Deputy Dean, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission Lunch hosted by Shui On Land Ltd., a Hong Kong Company in Shanghai Visit Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, Shanghai Museum 21 Sept (Fri) Shanghai Stock Exchange Shanghai Expo Lunch hosted by the General Manager, Shanghai Hang Lung Property Development Co. Ltd Bank of China Shanghai Branch General Motor China Group SHUZHOU   22 Sept (Sat) Visit Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum New Wing, Suzhou Embroidery Research Lab, Cold Mountain Temple Meeting with the Vice Mayor of the People’s Government of Suzhou Dinner hosted by Suzhou officials Night cruise at the Moat HONG KONG  23 Sept (Sun) Boat trip to Lamma Island and seafood dinner hosted by the Foundation 24 Sept (Mon) Breakfast meeting with Chief Financial Officer, Mr Archie Tsim, Hong Kong Stock Exchange Deputy Commissioner, Mr Yang Zigang of Ministry of  Foreign Affairs Chief Economist, Mr K C Kwok Financial Secretary, Mr John Tsang Lunch hosted by Mr CY Leung, Chairman of the Hong Kong Coalition of Professional Services (and Convenor of the Executive Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau Secretary for Justice, Mr Wong Yan-lung Dinner hosted by Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Executive Committee of the Better Hong Kong Foundation 25 Sept (Tue) Breakfast with American Chamber of Commerce Permanent Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs, Mr Joshua Law American Consul-General, Mr    

To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Better Hong Kong Foundation and the LCSD jointly presented “Postal Items Exhibition on Hong Kong’s Return to the Motherland and China’s Diplomacy”, to display various postal items on Hong Kong’s return to China and China’s diplomacy. The valuable exhibits include commemorative postal items on Hong Kong’s return to China, congratulatory letters and telegrams from various countries sent in 1997, special first day covers of diplomatic series of China, commemorative covers for the 600th anniversary of Zheng He’s Voyages to the West, as well as postal items for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.     These invaluable postal items are not only witness to the historic moment of Hong Kong’s return to China, but also testimony to the friendly relations between China and countries all over the world. The exhibition ran at the Heritage Discovery Centre from July 6 to August 5 2007. The opening ceremony was held on 05.07.2007, and has invited Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR, Mr. Tsang Tak-sing, JP, Secretary for Home Affairs of the HKSAR, Ms Karen Tang Shuk-tak, the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Mr. Guo Chongli, the Chief Archivist of the Bureau of Archives, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Sun Qishun, the Chairman of the Staff Union, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Thomas Chow, JP, the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services and Mr. Tam Wing-pong, JP, the Postmaster General. Members of the Foundation Mr. Leung Wai Fung, Miss Winnie Ng and Mr. Woo Chu has also attended the ceremony. Council Member of the Foundation Mr. Oscar Chow’s company “Pacific Coffee” sponsored the refreshments and beverages of the opening ceremony. Another Council Member Miss Winnie Ng also helped to promote the exhibition with her company “Road Show”. Officiating Guests: (From left) Mr. Thomas Chow, JP, the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Mr. Guo Chongli, the Chief Archivist of the Bureau of Archives, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Tsang Tak-sing, JP, Secretary for Home Affairs of the HKSAR, Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR, Ms Karen Tang Shuk-tak, the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, , Mr. Sun Qishun, the Chairman of the Staff Union, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, and Mr. Tam Wing-pong, JP, the Postmaster General. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang spoke at the opening ceremony Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Commissioner of MFA of PRC in HKSAR spoke at the opening ceremony Mr. Tsang Tak-sing, JP, Secretary for Home Affairs of the HKSAR spoke at the opening ceremony The officiating guests presided at the ribbon-cutting ceremony The guests appreciated the exihibits Guests took photo at the ceremony venue (from left: the Foundation’s Executive Director, Ms. Karen Tang, the Commissioner of MFA of PRC in HKSAR, Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Foundation’s Council Member, Ms. Winnie Ng and Trustee, Mr. Leung Wai Fung) Guests asked the officiating guests for signature at the ceremony, The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (2nd from left) and the Commissioner of MFA of PRC in HKSAR, Mr. Lu Xinhua (2nd from right) were signing on the first-day covers

A press conference was held on 03.07.07 to brief members of the media about the people and organizations that the delegation has met during their stay in US; members of the delegation also shared their experience gained from this delegation. The Hon. CY Leung, The Hon Bernard Chan and Prof. Stephen Cheung mentioned on the press conference that itinerary of the delegation was packed yet well-knitted. They were able to meet with many influential Government officials, think tanks, NGOs, Congressmen and media in the States. The Hon. Leung said that, theme of his speeches was successful implementation of “One Country, Two Systems” in Hong Kong, which was generally endorsed by the attendees. The attendees also agreed that Hong Kong has enjoyed the high degree of autonomy under the Basic Law without interference from Mainland China. At the same time, China’s booming economy has helped Hong Kong strengthen its international competitiveness. There were repeated expressions of “astonishing” by attendees to describe the encouraging developments of Hong Kong in the past ten years. The Hon Leung also highlighted the need for Hong Kong to study its proactive role in the financial and economic aspects in the Sino-US Strategic Economic Dialogue. The Hon. Chan expressed that ten years ago, people in Hong Kong and outside Hong Kong foresaw a series of problems to be happened after Hong Kong’s return to China. However, it turned out that these problems did not happen. On the contrary, other unanticipated problems sprang from the close and frequent contact between Hong Kong and China, such as marriage between the couples of Hong Kong and the Mainland, and the heavy traffic at the borders, warrant more attention from the society. These reflected the bilateral influence on each other during the process of integration between Hong Kong and China. Talking about the economy, Professor Cheung said that many of the attendees were interested in the economic cooperation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and how this could bring to Hong Kong opportunities and challenges. Professor Cheung quoted cases of the issuance of RMB bonds in Hong Kong and the IPOs of companies from Mainland China in Hong Kong, to illustrate Hong Kong’s strategic two-way role in helping the Mainland China’s companies enter the international market, and the international enterprises to invest in China. This was the second time that Miss Winnie Ng joined the Foundation’s delegation. Miss Ng regarded that the US experts on Hong Kong and China affairs had an understanding on related issues. However, continuous and timely communications were especially important in a rapidly developing society. The Foundation would continue to support this kind of meaningful events, said Miss Ng. Miss Tang thanked the delegates and all the organizations visited for their support in making the delegation a tremendous success. The Foundation would continue its dedication in enhancing greater international understanding between East and West by facilitating communications between Hong Kong, China and the international community. The Foundation would endeavour to organize this kind of visits for more exchanges and to promote better understanding to each other. Speeches of the 3 delegates are as follow: The Honourable CY Leung Ladies and Gentlemen, Good afternoon. China’s economic development in the last 30 years has been described as miraculous. Hong Kong has played a key role in this process. I would like to share some personal experiences and then make some suggestion as to why the US and Hong Kong should work together. In 1988, China amended its Constitution to allow private ownership of leasehold land, or “land use right”, a term I had coined in the many lectures I gave on the Mainland. I was asked to draft the tender sale documents and help organize the process for the Shanghai Government in the first such sale. The sale was successful. The 50-year land use right proved acceptable to both socialist China and the international market. It was sold to a Japanese investor for some US$30 million. In 1992, I was part of the delegation of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange giving a seminar in Beijing on the feasibility of IPO’s of Mainland state-owned enterprises. In the following year, Tsingtao Beer became the first such enterprise listed in Hong Kong. 15 years later, over 370 Mainland enterprises are now listed on the Hong Kong Exchange, accounting for half of its total market cap and 60% of total turnover. Several Hong Kong Chinese professionals have been appointed to very senior full-time and part-time positions by the Chinese government to help develop the securities market. Secretary Paulson has said that economic relationship is an important part of the overall relationship between the US and China. He has focused intensely on China from the day he became Treasury Secretary. To manage this economic relationship on a long-term basis, Presidents Bush and Hu established the Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED). The two sides met for the second time last month and agreed on a series of measures in the areas of financial services, non-financial services and trade, and tourism. In financial services, China announced that it will take steps that will provide opportunities for the following: Expansion of US financial services industry Increased QFII Expansion of QDII investment to include equity investment RMB credit and debit cards services by foreign backs, and Market access for insurance companies What does Hong Kong have to offer? Hong Kong has the only RMB clearing system outside the Mainland of China and will be able to issue RMB denominated bonds in June 2007, providing intermediation between the Mainland and the rest of the world. Hong Kong is also the only retail market for RMB forward contracts to hedge against currency risks and therefore has the prerequisite to launch RMB denominated hedging instruments such as futures and options contracts. Most foreign banks with a presence in Hong Kong use Hong Kong as the country and regional head-office in managing the Mainland Chinese business. Hong Kong has always been the most resourceful talent pool for China business. The language, geographical and cultural proximities to the Mainland has meant that Hong Kong also provides the best research, database and market intelligence services.The rule of law and the independent judiciary in Hong Kong are also crucial features of a regional financial services centre. Last week in Hong Kong, Mr. James Cunningham, US Consul-General in Hong Kong said, “the United States believes that one country, two systems has been a success for Hong Kong and for China. The Basic Law’s commitment to preserve a high degree of autonomy for Hong Kong and to maintain the integrity of its distinct economic, legal and social systems by and large has been observed.” Under the One Country Two Systems principle, Hong Kong and the Mainland maintain separate financial and foreign trade systems. The Hong Kong system has been and will be an excellent intermediary for the Mainland and the rest of the world. I strongly believe that it will remain so as the US and China deepen their bilateral economic relationship. In the words of the US Counsel General again, “Hong Kong plays an important role which benefits China, the U.S and many others in the globalized, interdependent 21st century.” Thank you! The Honourable Bernard Chan Thank you very much. I would like to discuss some of the changes we have seen since the handover 10 years ago.  These are changes as seen from the point of view of business and indeed individuals. I think one key point to make is that the return of Hong Kong from the British to China is in some ways a sideshow.  That didn’t, on its own, change the economic picture very much.  The real story here is the rapid development of China during that time, and the impact of that on Hong Kong. Hong Kong went through a bad time after the handover, with the bursting of the property bubble and the SARS outbreak.  But our economy is once again on track.  In terms of the regulatory and legal environment, Hong Kong is no different today from what it was before 1997.  The bureaucracy is still business friendly.  The tax burden is still low and simple.  People’s freedoms are secure.  And it is still a superb place for a regional operation to be based in. But some things have changed. For example, think about the border between Hong Kong and the Mainland.  Before 1997, it was seen as an assurance.  Now, it is seen more as a nuisance that hinders travel between Hong Kong and its hinterland.  One of its four crossing points has 300,000 people crossing every day – the busiest in the world. We used to be afraid of Mainlanders flooding into Hong Kong.  Now we welcome them for their tourist dollars.  Of the 25 million visitors last year, 13.6 million were from the Mainland.  Ten years earlier, we had 13 million visitors in all, and only 2 million were from the Mainland. The traffic goes two ways.  Many Hong Kong people are living and working in the Mainland.  Hong Kong people buy apartments in the Mainland.  That was almost unheard of in the 1980s. These unexpected changes are the result of China’s rapid growth.  This has brought some negative effects to Hong Kong.  An obvious example is air pollution, much of which comes from factories across the border – many of them Hong Kong-owned.  Another problem is food safety.  We get 70 percent of our food from the Mainland.  We didn’t think about these things before the handover. China’s development has also pressured some of the less competitive parts of the Hong Kong economy and workforce.  People ask whether the Mainland represents an economic partner or a competitor to Hong Kong. We saw nearly all our manufacturing base move across the border in the 1980s and 90s.  More recently, white collar jobs such as data entry and accounting have started to move across the border.  This has raised fears in Hong Kong that more and more of our workforce will find it hard to compete in future.  We are losing less-skilled jobs to the Mainland, and we are seeing a growing gap between rich and poor. This probably all sounds quite familiar to you here in the USA.  The difference is that we don’t have union leaders and politicians demanding tariffs on Mainland goods or revaluation of China’s currency.  We are right on the cutting edge of globalization.  Our less skilled people are seeing the negative side of it.  But the rest of us see the best effects of it.  We own the factories and run the trading, and the logistics and the finance. At the same time, as Professor Cheung has explained, Chinese companies have started to access global capital markets through Hong Kong.  Our stock market overtook New York last year in terms of the value of IPOs. *** Hong Kong’s relationship with the Mainland cannot be compared to the one between, for example, New York City and New Jersey.  There are separate customs and immigration systems.  Because of that, Hong Kong has access to American technology that cannot be sold in the rest of China. But as I said, the border has created unexpected problems.  It interferes with labour mobility.  Our welfare system gives the less skilled a major incentive to live in Hong Kong, even as their job opportunities decline.  At the same time, our immigration policy still places barriers in the way of young, skilled Mainland talent.  New York can attract the best college graduates from across the United States.  But in Hong Kong, Chinese from outside the city are basically treated like foreigners.  They need to line up an employer first and get a visa. We now have cross-border social problems, like family separation.  A husband might live a hundred miles north of Hong Kong managing a Hong Kong-owned factory.  He only sees his wife and kids at the weekend.  This leads to infidelity, family disputes and so on. Our teenagers go over the border for cheap alcohol and drugs.  The number of Hong Kong people arrested in the Mainland for possession is rising, while the number in Hong Kong is actually falling.  Some of the drugs they abuse over the border are fakes, or have impurities, so they can be even more dangerous than usual. Many of our senior citizens would like to retire in the Mainland, where the pace of life and the cost of living would suit them more.  So we have made their welfare benefits portable provided they are in the neighbouring province of Guangdong.  But they would also like to take their subsidized health care with them.  Other Hong Kong people living over the border would like this too, and schooling for their children. It’s not like going from New York City to another state.  In many cases, Hong Kong people won’t go to Mainland public hospitals – the standards are so low.  Even when they are injured, they head for the border if they can.  The Mainland school system is not compatible with the Hong Kong one.  Are we supposed to build facilities across the border for Hong Kong people?  We simply don’t know how to address this issue. Ten years ago, no-one expected these things to be a problem.  We were promised 50 years with ‘one country-two systems’.  Then, we would integrate.  But actually, the process is already happening.  And we need to adapt to that. When it comes to looking to the future, I would say the experiences of the last 10 years have created some uncertainty. There has been a lot of concern over Hong Kong becoming marginalized as new gateways into China open up.  There seems to be more expectation that Government should in some way guide the economy and find new roles, or protect existing industries like the port from Mainland competition.  Some members of the business community, some politicians from across the spectrum, and some former officials have openly questioned our old free market traditions. There is also some confusion about the process of integration with the Mainland economy.  On the one hand, it is obvious that there is huge potential for wealth creation if both Hong Kong and the Mainland focus on their own comparative advantages, and find ways to combine them.  On the other hand, there are barriers and protectionist feelings on both sides of the border.  And there are ambitions.  Many Mainland cities make no secret about their desire to rival Hong Kong in some way. There is a political dimension to this as well.  Some people in Hong Kong are very patriotic and feel on principle that Hong Kong should be more integrated with the Mainland.  Other people feel Hong Kong should put itself first and treasure the things that make it different, including its international ties.  I don’t think there is really a conflict here.  Most of us feel we can have the best of both worlds.  But at a symbolic level, there is an underlying friction here. So when people ask if Hong Kong is becoming more Chinese and less international, you can say yes or no.  Some people will point to those areas where we are integrating more.  For example, more of our students are going to Mainland universities in search of Mainland careers.  More Mainland people are coming to Hong Kong for business or pleasure, or to study or have medical treatment. But Westerners, the Southeast Asians, the Indians are still in Hong Kong.  A huge number of Western-educated, English-speaking Chinese are still there.  The free press, the rule of law, the old values are still there.  You really know you’re not on the Mainland any more when you arrive back in Hong Kong from Beijing or somewhere. So it’s interesting.  What we are seeing since 1997 is largely a success.  None of the terrible things some people forecast 10 years ago have happened.   We are still free, still prosperous, still a great place to do business. The things that have changed are to do with China and its continued, amazing economic transformation.  Hong Kong is deeply involved in this.  It has produced some unexpected problems – like air pollution, or a widening wealth gap.  But it is also giving us some amazing new opportunities to explore.  For younger, talented Hong Kong people in particular, this is going to be very exciting.  They have a huge, fast-developing country on their doorstep.  They have options open to them as they start their careers that I could never have imagined – and I am only in my early 40s. We have been through some shocks.  We are learning to adapt to a fast-changing environment.  Some people will find it harder than in the past.  But I think the majority of us have every reason to be confident about our position as a special part of China.  In another 10 years’ time, we’ll look back at the events of the late 1990s up to 2003, and remember them as bumps in the road.  Meantime, we’ll be speeding ahead. Thank you all very much. Professor Stephen Cheung Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. It is my great pleasure to be here today to speak to you on the latest economic developments in Hong Kong and to exchange views on how to ensure Hong Kong will forge ahead in the future, while at the same time continuing to affirm its status as one of the leading financial centres of the world. Before July 1, 1997, the front cover of Fortune Magazine of June 1995 predicted, “The death of Hong Kong.” This article highlighted the concerns of Hong Kong residents; whether they would continue to enjoy their established rights and freedoms; whether the existing social, economic and legal systems would be maintained; and whether their way of life would remain unchanged. Of course, we all know that these numerous pessimistic prophecies did not come true. The year 2007 marks the tenth anniversary of the return of Hong Kong’s sovereignty to China in 1997. This is a good time for all of us to reflect on what happened and also what will happen to Hong Kong in the future. Certainly, we have seen some tough times in Hong Kong. The Asian financial crisis of 1997-1998 knocked the wind out of our sails. Hong Kong’s economy hit rock bottom during the SARS epidemic of 2003, and experienced a period of prolonged weakness in economic activity, persistent deflation, rising unemployment, especially among relatively low-skilled labor, and increasing fiscal deficits. But as we all know, Hong Kong’s economy rebounded in 2004 and moved out of recession and deflation, and resumed a course of steady growth. The economy grew by 5.6% in real terms in the first quarter of 2007. The upturn in Hong Kong’s economy over the past three years has been partially triggered by China’s impressive economic performance. As a result of this economic upturn, job creation has steadily gathered strength giving rise to a stronger demand for labor. This in turn, has brought down the annual unemployment rate to 4.3%, in the first quarter of 2007 from the peak of 8.6% in 2003.  A total of nearly 300,000 net additional jobs have been created since 2003. In terms of Hong Kong’s competitiveness, Hong Kong’s economy has been ranked as the freest economy by the Heritage Foundation for the 13th consecutive year. Similarly, doing business in Hong Kong is easy and transparent according to the Ease of Doing Business Index, in which Hong Kong has ranked between four to six (4-6) from 2005-2007. In the 2006/2007 China Urban Competitiveness Study, Hong Kong was ranked number one among all Chinese cities according to various indicators. The Global Financial Centre Index report, published by the City of London, concluded that Hong Kong performed well in all of the key competitive areas, especially in regulation and ranked Hong Kong just behind New York and London. Ever since Mainland China adopted its open door policy in 1978, Hong Kong has been the leading gateway connecting Mainland China and the rest of the world. The continuing reforms and the opening up of Mainland China’s economy have further enhanced trade and economic ties between the two economies. We have witnessed a series of major co-operation initiatives such as the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) between Hong Kong and Mainland China. These arrangements have greatly facilitated the entry of Hong Kong’s goods and services into the Chinese market. On this point, let me cite a few latest statistics. From 2004 to 2006, Hong Kong’s real GDP increased by 25%, financial and insurance services grew by 65%, and imports and exports trade increased by 48%. Since the introduction of the Individual Visit Scheme in July 2003, visitors from Mainland China to Hong Kong have increased by almost 50%. In terms of financial market development, Hong Kong is strategically located as a gateway to Mainland China, which makes Hong Kong ideally positioned to facilitate financial intermediation between China and the rest of the world. Hong Kong’s series of reforms in its financial markets, in particular the securities market, has brought about a regulatory framework on par with international standards. This in turn, has helped to facilitate market development and investor protection. The listing of Mainland China enterprises is a common source of interest on Hong Kong’s exchange. Since the 1980’s, Hong Kong has served as a bridge between Mainland China and the rest of the world, in terms of capital formation.  Hong Kong has always been the leading international stock market for Mainland China-related enterprises. China-related enterprises account for about 30% of the total number of listed companies on the Hong Kong Exchange, 50% of Hong Kong’s total market capitalization and about 60% of Hong Kong’s turnover. Now let me chart the way forward in meeting the challenges of increasingly globalized markets and carving out Hong Kong’s niche in the global economy. As we all know, the financial services sector is the core strength of Hong Kong’s economy. Hong Kong, with its sound regulatory system and advanced financial infrastructure, is well-positioned to play a significant role in the future development of Mainland China. I believe Hong Kong financial services sector could play an important role for China-related enterprises to expand their overseas markets. Another important point I would like to emphasize is that public investors are important participants in Mainland China’s securities market. As more workers leave rural areas for the cities, they will come into greater contact with the global economy and develop a greater recognition of the potential incomes and wealth available. I strongly believe that the Hong Kong securities market can help to design and provide more investment products for mainland investors and thereby Hong Kong can become Mainland China’s most important centre for personal wealth management. The Hong Kong derivatives market is by and large well regulated. It has weathered several historic storms such as the Asian financial crisis and subsequent speculative attacks on the Hong Kong dollar. All these incidents proved that the Hong Kong derivatives market has a sound risk management system. Today, Mainland China could use the Hong Kong derivatives market as a testing ground for Chinese financial derivatives products. This development can provide risk management instruments for the investment community. I must at this stage talk about the strong interest in holding Renminbi assets, which indicates that there should be a good demand for Renminbi bonds as well. Issuing Renminbi dominated bonds in Hong Kong, will facilitate the channeling of Renminbi back to Mainland China and further develop Hong Kong as the major fund raising centre for Mainland China enterprises. On the one hand, this will additionally strengthen Hong Kong’s position as the region’s international financial center. On the other hand, this will develop an alternative funding channel for Chinese companies in a well regulated market that is open to the international investment community. A successful launch of Renminbi bond issues will prove that Hong Kong possesses the expertise and infrastructure for large-scale issuance of debt instruments. Closing Remarks ——————– Ladies and gentlemen, the remarkable economic growth of Mainland China has brought about abundant opportunities and an exciting future for Hong Kong. Hong Kong should work toward capitalizing on the market opportunities arising from Mainland China’s robust and sustained economic growth. Mainland China’s emergence as a major economy and its continuing economic reforms will provide lots of opportunities to the international community. To stay ahead in the game, Hong Kong needs to continue to benchmark itself against the world’s leading financial centers for the purposes of enhancing its financial infrastructure, promoting market development and upgrading market quality. Thank you. Members of the delegation shared their experience and views on the conference, (from left) Professor Stephen Cheung, The Honourable CY Leung, Ms. Karen Tang, The Honourable Bernard Chan and Ms. Winnie Ng Group photo of the delegation Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang briefed members of the media about the visit to the US

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) sent its annual delegation to the United States from 17th to 24th June this year. The delegation paid visits to important leaders from the US government, Congress, academia, business, media, think tanks and related NGOs in Washington D.C. and New York, to update them about Hong Kong’s recent development and economic outlook. This year’s delegation was led by The Foundation’s Executive Director Miss Karen Tang,  included members: The Hon. CY Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council of HKSAR, and Chairman, Asia Pacific, DTZ; The Hon. Bernard Chan, Member of the Executive Council and the Legislative Council, and President, Asia Financial Holdings Ltd.; Prof. Stephen YL Cheung, Professor (Chair) of Finance, Department of Economics and Finance, Faculty of Business, City University of Hong Kong; Miss Winnie Ng, the Foundation’s Council Member, and Executive Director of Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd; and Mr. Al. Reyes, Commentator on International Affairs. Mr. Chris Yeung, Editor-at-Large of the South China Morning Post was an observer of the delegation. This year is the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong returning to China, the Foundation thus has set the theme of this year’s delegation as “Hong Kong in the Past Ten Years and the Road Ahead”. To review Hong Kong’s positioning during its integration with mainland China, its uniqueness as a cosmopolitan city and gateway to the world, and describe the challenges and opportunities it faces under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”. During the mission, The Hon. CY Leung, The Hon. Bernard Chan and Prof. Cheung spoke at public talks and luncheons hosted by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Brookings Institutions, the Fund for American Studies, HKSAR Government’s Economic and Trade Office in New York, and the Asia Society. The delegation also met with Government officials including Dr. Daniel B. Wright, Managing Director, US – China Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED); and The Honourable Thomas J. Christensen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs. The Foundation has a long history working with influential think tanks in the US. Therefore, the delegation also met with Cato Institute; Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Brookings Institute, Heritage Foundation etc, to exchange views on Hong Kong’s development since its return to China. Apart from meetings with US Government officials and NGOs, the delegation has also attended lunch and dinners hosted by the Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America, Chinese Consul General based in New York and the  Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Permanent Representative of the PRC to the United Nations. Detailed itinerary is as follows: June 18, 2007 (Monday)  Washington D.C.  Breakfast Meeting with Briefing:  U.S.-China Relations:  A U.S. Legislative Perspective chaired by Mr. Norman Lau Kee, Chairman Emeritus, US-Asia Institute moderated by Robert F. Jordan, Senior Advisor, US-Asia Institute Congressional Staff: Jaime R. Harrison, Director of Floor Operations and Counsel, Office of the Majority Whip, US House of Representatives Michael Martin, Analyst in Asian Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division, Congressional Research Services Wayne M. Morrison, Specialist in International Trade and Finance, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division, Congressional Research Services Jefferey Wrase, Senate Republican Chief Economist, Joint Economic Committee US Congress Meeting with HKETO Washington Ms. Margaret Fong, Commissioner for Economic & Trade Affairs, USA Mr. Eddie Mak, Dir-Gen, HK Economic & Trade Affairs, Washington Ms Susanne Wong, Assistant Dir-Gen, HKETO Meeting and Luncheon with DCM & Minister ZHENG Zeguang, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America, and Mr MA Zhanwu, Counsellor, Political Office, Embassy of the PRC in USA Meeting with Cato Institute Mr. William A. Niskanen, Chairman Mr. James Dorn, VP for Academic Affairs Public speaking engagement on “Hong Kong’s Economic Developments and Economic Relations with Mainland China”  ** with The Hon. Bernard Chan and Prof. Stephen Cheung hosted by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace moderated by Mark MEDISH, VP for Studies (Rusia, China, and Eurasia) at Carnegie Meeting with Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Ms Jessica Matthews, President Mr Albert Keidel, Senior Associate Dinner hosted by HKETO Washington for The Hon. C.Y. Leung & The Hon. Bernard Chan Participants: The Honorable Donald A. Manzullo, Ranking Member, House Committee on Foreign Affairs,  Subcommittee on  Asia, the  Pacific, and the Global Environment, U.S. House of Representatives Dr. David H. McCormick, Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economic Affairs, National  Security Council,  The White House Dr. Ira Kasoff, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of  Commerce Dr. William A. Niskanen, Chairman,Cato Institute Dr. Eric D.K. Melby, Principal Member, The Scowcroft Group Dr. Pieter Bottelier, Senior Adjunct Professor, China Studies, The Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced  International  Studies (SAIS), The Johns Hopkins University Mr. Nien Su, Minority Professional Staff Member, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Asia,  the  Pacific, and the Global Environment, U.S. House of Representatives Dinner hosted by HKETO Washington for other delegates June 19, 2007 (Tuesday)  Washington D.C. Meeting with The Hon. Thomas J. Christensen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Mr. John J Norris, Jr. Director, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs, Mr David L. Citron, Mongolia Desk Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs, Ms Pamela F Peng, Political Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs Luncheon discussion ** with The Hon. C.Y. Leung hosted by Brookings Institution Participants: Richard Bush, Brookings, Senior Fellow and Director, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies Li Cheng, Brookings, China Center Rikkie Yeung, Brookings, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies Chu Shulong, Brookings, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies D.L. McNeal, Brookings, China Cente Wing Thye Woo, Brookings, Senior Fellow, John Thornton China Center, Foreign Policy Studies Program Kevin Scott Brookings, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies Margaret Fong, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Eddie Mak, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Susanne Wong, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Alan Romberg, Senior Associate, Director, East Asia Program, Stimson Center Stephen A. Schlaikjer, Senior Analyst, Centra Technolog, Inc. Doug Spelman T. Kumar, Amnesty International Meeting with Congressman Edward R. Royce (R-CA), Asia Pacific Subcommittee, House Foreign Affairs Committee; Ranking Terrorism, Nonproliferation and Trade; Member, House Financial Services Committee, Mr Hunter M. Strupp, Legislative Assistant to Ed Royce Meeting with Congressman Dan Burton (R-IN) House Foreign Affairs Committee, Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment Subcommittee Meeting with Dr. Daniel B. Wright, Managing Director, China and the Strategic Economic Dialogue, U.S. Department of Treasury Dinner with US journalists Participants: Terry Atlas, Assistant Managing Editor/World, U.S. News & World Report Joyce Barnathan, President of ICFJ Patrick Butler, Vice President of Programs, ICFJ Jeffery H. Birnbaum, Staff Writer, Washington Post Jim Wolf, Reuters Winston Chen, Sing Tao Washington Bureau Chief Paris Huang, Sing Tao Washington Bureau June 20, 2007 (Wednesday)  Washington D.C.   Meeting with Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-NY), Chairman, U.S.-China Interparliamentary Exchange, Mr Gregg E. Sheiowitz, Legislative Director for Joseph Crowley Meeting with American Enterprise Institute Ambassador James Lilley hosted by Mrs. Esther G. Kee Open forum on “Hong Kong in the Past Ten Years and the Future” ** with The Hon. C.Y. Leung, The Hon. Bernard Chan and Prof. Stephen Cheung hosted by the Fund for American Studies chaired by Mr Roger R. Ream, President of FAS moderated by Ambassador Julia Chang Bloch, President of the US-China Education Trust Meeting with Rear Admiral Eric McVadon (U.S. Navy, Retired) Director of Asia/Pacific Studies, Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis Meeting with Heritage Foundation Mr Harvey J. Feldman, Distinguished Fellow Mr John J. Tkacik, JR, Senior Research Fellow, Asian Studies Center Dinner hosted by the Asia Foundation Ms. Nancy YUAN, Vice President and Director of Washington, D.C. office Mr James Andrew KELLY, President, EAP Associates Inc; Former U.S. Asst Secretary of State for East Asian & Pacific  Affairs; Trustee of TAF; Mr Terrence B. Adamson, Executive Vice President, National Geographic Mr Harry HARDING, Director, Research & Analysis, Eurasia Group; University Professor of International Affairs, George  Washington University; Mr David I. Steinberg, Director of Asian Studies Program, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service Washington,  Georgetown University Mr Barry M. Hager, President, Hager Associates Ms Joyce CHANDRAN, Assistant Director of TAF June 21 (Thursday)   New York Luncheon and briefing session ** hosted by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York Participants: Miss Margaret Fong, Hong Kong Commissioner, USA, Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office Ms. Monica Chen, Director, Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office Mr. Paul W. Bateman, President, The Economic Club of New York Mr. Terrence J. Checki, Executive Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank of New York Dr. Harry Harding, Counselor and Chair, China Task Force, Eurasia Group Mr. Henry S. Tang, Governor and Co-Founder, Committee of 100 Mr.  John E. Zuccotti, U.S. Chairman, Brookfield Properties Corporation Mr. William W Ferguson, Managing Director, Group Managing Executive Asia Pacific, Citigroup Inc. Mr. H. Hocking Cheng, Strategy & Business Development Director, Aetna Global Benefits, Aetna Meeting with Morgan Stanley Mr. Stephen S. Roach, Chief Economist and Director of Global Economic Analysis and newly named Chairman  Asia Mr. David Lew, Vice President, Private Wealth Management Mr. Blair Pickerell, Managing Director & CEO, Asia, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Welcoming Reception hosted by Oversees Press Club and Hong Kong Association of New York Participants: William J. Holstein, President, OPC Foundation Jane Reilly, Executive Director, Overseas Press Club Andrew Odell, Chairman, Hong Kong Association of New York Ping An, Committee of 100 Stephen Wong, Regional Director, Americas, Hong Kong Trade Development Council Louis Ho, Director New York, Hong Kong Trade Development Council Sheri Prasso, Fortune Minky Worden, Human Rights Watch Peter Huvos, Human Rights Watch Alice Young, Kay Scholer, Asia Pacific Practice Gary Rosen, Commentary Hannah Clark, Associate Editor, Inc.magazine Michael Serrill, Senior Editor, Bloomberg Markets Magazine Louis Chau, Sing Tao Frank Yang, CCTV Ping Yang, CCTV Andrew L. Odell, Bryan Cave, LLP Raymond Wong, Wong & Wong & Associates, Partner Mrs. Valerie Wong, Wong & Wong & Associates, Partner William Wilson, Wilson International Law Henry Cheng, Chief Representative, HK Monetary Authority Dinner hosted by Chinese Consulate General based in New York June 22, 2007 (Friday)   New York Meeting with Forbes Magazine Mr. Timothy C. Forbes, Chief Operating Officer Mr Tim W. Ferguson, Editor, Forbes Asia Meeting with HSBC Mr. Paul Lawrence, CEO Mr Marlon P. Young, CEO, Americas Mr Kevin Newman, Senior Executive Vice President, Personal Financial Services Ms. Linda S Recupero, Executive Vice President, Group Public Affairs Ms Elizabeth Lee, Senior Vice President, Asian Market District Luncheon Talk“Integration under One Country, Two Systems” ** with The Hon. C.Y. Leung, hosted by Asia Society Dinner hosted by WANG Guangya, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Permanent Representative of the PRC to the UN ** speaking engagements by the delegates To enhance the US media’s understanding about the latest development of Hong Kong and China, the delegation met with different media, including Forbes and Fortune magazine. Ms. Sheridan Prasso, reporter of Fortune magazine, was among them on the Welcoming Reception hosted by the Overseas Press Club in New York. Before Hong Kong’s return to China, the Fortune magazine published a cover story “The Death of Hong Kong”. And Miss Prasso wrote on the latest issue an article “Oops! Hong Kong is hardly dead”, acknowledged that the magazine (Fortune) had made a wrong judgment. (For full text of the article, please click: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/07/09/100122332/index.htm?postversion=2007062816 ) The delegation met with the US-Asia Institute The delegation met with the Ms. Margaret Fong, J.P., Hong Kong Commissioner, USA of HKETO The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in USA hosted a welcome lunch for the delegation. Fourth from left is DCM and Minister, Mr. Zheng Zeguang. The delegation had meeting with the Cato Institute, fourth from left is Chairman of the Institute Mr. William A. Niskanen, and third from right is VP for Academic Affairs Mr. James Dorn Professor Stephen Cheung spoke at a public speaking engagement organized by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace The Honourable Bernard Chan spoke at a public seminar organized by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace More than 50 audience from academic, media and professional bodies attended the public seminar organized by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace The delegation met with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; sixth from left, Chairlady Ms. Jessica Mathews; third from right, Senior Associate Mr. Albert Keidel The delegation met with The Honourable Thomas J. Christensen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Public Affairs. (First from right) The Honourable CY Leung spoke at a luncheon hosted by the Brookings Institute. Members of the delegation took picture in front of the White House. The delegation met with Congressman Edward R. Royce (R-CA) Mr. Daniel B. Wright, Managing Director for China and the Strategic Economic Dialogue briefed the delegation on the progress of the dialogue. Mr. Daniel B. Wright, Managing Director for China and the Strategic Economic Dialogue (fifth from left) with the delegation. Meeting with Ambassador James Lilley (first from right) The Honourable CY Leung spoke at a luncheon hosted by the Fund for American Studies. The Honourable Bernard Chan spoke at a luncheon hosted by the Fund for American Studies. Professor Stephen Cheung spoke at a luncheon hosted by the Fund for American Studies. The delegates with the President of the Fund for American Studies Mr. Roger R. Ream and other participants of the luncheon. Ms. Karen and Ms. Winnie Ng presented the Foundation’s souvenir to Rear Admiral Eric McVadon (U.S. Navy, Retired) Director of Asia/Pacific Studies, Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis The delegation met with Mr. Harvey j. Feldman, Distinguished Fellow and Mr. John Tkacik, JR., Senior Research Fellow Asian Studies Center of the Heritage Foundation. The delegation attended a dinner hosted by the Asia Foundation, Professor. Harry Harding of The George Washington University Washington DC (middle) was also one of the guests of the dinner. HKETO New York hosted a welcome lunch for the delegation. The Delegation with the guests of the welcome lunch hosted by HKETO New York. Ms. Karen Tang presented the Foundation’s souvenir to Mr. Stephen S. Roach, Chairman, Morgan Stanley Asia Limited Nearly 50 local journalists attended the welcome reception hosted by the Overseas Press Club. The delegation met with Mr. Timothy C. Forbes (left) and Mr. Tim W. Ferguson of the Forbes magazine A plate with Chairman Mao Zedong’s quotation was put on the conference table of the Forbes magazine. The quotation reminded people to speak to the point and don’t waste time on long meetings. The delegation with senior executives of HSBC Bank USA, fifth from the left is Group General Manager Mr. Paul J. Lawrence The delegates with the participants of the luncheon hosted by Asia Society The delegation presented the Foundation’s souvenir to Professor Harry Harding, moderator of the discussion session of the luncheon The delegation met with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Wang Guangya, Permanent Representative of the PRC to the UN (middle) Delegates took a group photo before leaving New York. Ms. Winnie Ng (right) and Mr. Chris Yeung (left) with local media

This year is the 10th anniversary of HK returning to China. The Better Hong Kong Foundation (Foundation) was pleased to have invited Mr. James B. Cunningham, U.S. Consul General of Hong Kong and Macau to speak at a luncheon co-hosted with the Hong Kong America Centre. The title of Mr. Cunningham’s speech is ”The First Ten Years of the Hong Kong SAR: An American Perspective”. Members of the Foundation Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Deputy Chairman, Far East Consortium International Ltd.; Mr. Peter Lam, Chairman, Lai Sun Development Co. Ltd.; Ms. Winnie Ng, Executive Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd.; Dr. Gerald K. Chow, Executive Director, Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd.; Dato’ Wong Sin Just, Vice Chairman / CEO, Softbank Investment International (Strategic) Ltd. In his speech, Mr. Cunningham thanked the Foundation for inviting him to share an American perspective on Hong Kong after ten years as a Special Administrative Region of China. Mr. Cunningham stated that the Foundation was created in 1995 by a group of Hong Kong’s influential business and community leaders for the express purpose of enhancing public confidence in Hong Kong’s future. In June of 1995, Fortune magazine ran its cover story: “The Death of Hong Kong.” It was in that business- and investment-unfriendly climate that the Foundation was created to help restore confidence in the territory. HK’s development in the past ten years has proven that the Foundation is on the right track. He also commended the Foundation for contributing to prosper a close relationship between the United States and Hong Kong & China. The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu made an opening remark at the luncheon U.S. Consul General Mr. James Cunningham delivered his speech The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu put forward his view points for discussion at the Q & A session The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Gerald Chow put forward his viewpoints for discussion at the Q & A session The Foundation’s Council Member Dato’ SJ Wong put forward his viewpoints for discussion at the Q & A session The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Peter Lam presents a souvenir to Mr. James Cunningham The Foundation’s members and Guests (from right to left) Dr. Gerald Chow, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dr. Glenn Shive, Mr. Peter Lam, Mr. James Cunningham, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Dato’ SJ Wong, Hon. Bernard Chan and Ms. Karen Tang

The Better Hong Kong Foundation “the Foundation” will organize its annual delegation to the United States during 17th to 24th June this year. The delegation will visit important leaders from government, Congress, academia, business, media, think tanks and related NGOs in Washington D.C. and New York, to update them about Hong Kong’s recent development and economic outlook. A press conference was held on 12 June 2007 to brief members of the media about the theme and members of the delegation. Miss Karen Tang was the leader of this delegation and the delegates include: Hon. CY Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council of HKSAR, and Chairman, Asia Pacific, DTZ; Hon. Bernard Chan, Member of the Executive Council and the Legislative Council, and President, Asia Financial Holdings Ltd.; Prof. Stephen YL Cheung, Professor (Chair) of Finance, Department of Economics and Finance, Faculty of Business, City University of Hong Kong; Miss Winnie Ng, the Foundation’s Council Member, and Executive Director of Kowloon Motor Bus Co. Ltd; and Mr. Al. Reyes, Commentator on International Affairs. Miss Tang explained on the conference that this year is the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong returning to China. Hence the Foundation has made the theme of this year’s delegation “Hong Kong in the Past Ten Years and the Road Ahead”. “We will review Hong Kong’s positioning during its integration with Mainland China, its uniqueness as a cosmopolitan city and gateway to the world; and describe the challenges and opportunities that it faces under the principle of one country two systems. During the mission, Hon. CY Leung, Hon. Bernard Chan and Prof. Cheung would speak at public talks or luncheons hosted by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Brookings Institutions, the Fund for American Studies, HKSAR Government’s Economic and Trade Office in New York, and the Asia Society. The delegation would also meet with Cato Institute; Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; State Department, East Asian and Pacific Affairs; Commerce Department of U.S.; American Enterprise Institute; Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis; and members of the local media, etc. Apart from meetings with US Government officials and NGOs, the delegation would also attend luncheons or dinners hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America, Chinese Consulate General based in New York and Chinese Ambassador to UN. Hon. CY Leung, Hon Bernard Chan and Prof. Cheung stated on the conference that their speeches would focus on HK’s economic developments and economic relations with Mainland China. They would also analyze how HK makes use of its unique relations with China to maintain its competitiveness and status as a Regional financial hub and business centre. Miss Tang expected that the delegation would come back with fruitful results, which would be announced at a later stage. At the press briefing, Executive Director of the Foundation Ms. Karen Tang introduced the schedule of the annual delegation to the US (From left) Professor Stephen Cheung, Ms. Karen Tang, The Honourable CY Leung and The Honourable Bernard Chan bid success to the delegation

The Better Hong Kong Foundation is pleased to be a co-organizing party of the Top Ten News Election in Celebration of Hong Kong’s Reunification with China which is organized by Wen Wei Po together with other major media in Hong Kong. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was also one of the guests to officiate at the lucky draw ceremony. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang officiated at the lucky draw ceremony The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (first from right, front row)was one of the guests to officiated at the lunky draw ceremony

To commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Reunification of HKSAR and the Motherland, Roadshow has organized a large scaled concert at the Hong Kong Convention Centre. The Better Hong Kong Foundation is pleased to be one of the supporting party of the concert. Group photo of Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng (1st from left), Chairman of Advisory Committee Dr. Hanry Cheng (2nd from left), Trustee Mr. Peter Lam (1st from right), Convenor of the Executive Council of HKSAR The Honourable Mr. CY Leung and other guests (From left) Group photo of Trustee Mr. Peter Lam, Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng, Chairman of Advisory Committee Dr. Hanry Cheng and Convenor of the Executive Council of HKSAR The Honourable Mr. CY Leung

The Hong Kong Shanghai Economic Summit was held in Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences on June 1, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong’s Return to the Motherland. This high-level conference was a joint effort of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Hong Kong and Macau Studies Center of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences and the Taiwan and Overseas Chinese Shanghai Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. Chairman of Shanghai Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Mr. Jiang Yiren, Vice-Chairman of Shanghai Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and President of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, Mr. Wang Rong Hua, Chairman of Shanghai Social Sciences Association and Former Vice Director of Xinhua News Agency HK Branch, Mr. Lee Chuwen, Convenor of the Executive Council HKSAR, The Honourable CY Leung, Vice-chairman of the Basic Law Committee and Former Secretary of Justice of HKSAR, Ms. Elsie Leung, Executive Chairman of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Dr. Ronnie Chan and Director of HK and Trade Affairs Shanghai of HKSAR, Mr. Chan Chi King have attended the conference and gave speeches. Trustees of the Foundation Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Leung Wai Fung, Council Members Mr. Chen Li Po and Mr. Woo Chu also attended the conference. More than 100 Government officials, investors and professionals from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen discussed from different perspectives the successful implementation of “One Country Two Systems” in Hong Kong, and the opportunities arisen in the course of integration between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Experts from different fields compared the education system, social welfare system and medical system; reviewed the development of the various systems of the two cities in the past ten years; as well as explored opportunities to enhance collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. Members of the meeting were of the view that Hong Kong and Shanghai both were energetic cities, had their own competitive edges and were also strategic to the development of China especially in the midst of increasingly globalized competition. It was advised that Hong Kong businessmen should participate more actively in Shanghai’s development; and the two cities should work closer, especially under the CEPA, to foster further economic development of the two cities and the economic development of China as a whole; and ultimately both cities would benefit from increasing their respective competitiveness in the process.

The Seminar and Press Conference of 2007 China Urban Competitiveness Study (Hong Kong) is organized by The Better Hong Kong Foundation and co-organized by Institute of Finance and Trade Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. “The 2007 Blue Book on China Urban Competitiveness” was led by Dr Ni Pengfei of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences with contributions from about 100 scholars from Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. The report identified the core advantages of 200 Chinese cities. Their urban competitiveness is ranked according to various indicators. The top 10 cities in overall urban competitiveness are: Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Taipei, Wuxi, Suzhou, Foshan and Macau. Hong Kong ranks the first in scale, efficiency, efficacy and quality competitiveness, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation pointed that to maintain Hong Kong’s competitiveness, it is crucial to emphasize its strengths and rectify its weaknesses. Hong Kong needs to consolidate its pillar industries in finance, business and trade services and the ability to attract foreign capital. The headquarters economy should be an avenue along which Hong Kong’s status and its reach of services and functions can be expanded. Hong Kong must also expand its hinterland and promote regional cooperation as ways to highlight our uniqueness and competitiveness. Above all, the government and different industries are well advised to catch every opportunity in this ever-changing world to forge ahead in global urban competition. For more details of the report, please click here   (From Left) Prof. Ni Pengfei, Ms. Karen Tang, Prof. Shen Jianfa and Prof. Yeung Yue-man introduced the results of the study at the press conference. More than 50 guests including important community leaders, attended the press conference.(From Right) Mr. Wang Hui, Deputy Director-General of EAD, Head of Commercial Office of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR; Mr.Wong Po Yan G.B.M., J.P., Chairman & Managing Director of United Overseas Enterprises Ltd.; Miss Alice Mak, Communications Manager of the Better Hong Kong Foundation; Mr. Zhu Jun, General Affairs Group Director, Commercial office of Economic affairs Department of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation held a briefing session to announce the results of the 2006 annual study Hong Kong-Shanghai Metropolis (International City) Competitiveness Study. The study has been conducted annually for six years, by the research team from the Faculty of Business Administration, the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong & Macau Studies Centre, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences. It comprises of a 32-item survey results of 210 CEOs of multinational corporations based in Hong Kong and Shanghai, and a subject analysis of the survey results. The study shows that Hong Kong is still ahead of Shanghai in terms of all composite competitiveness indicators in 2006, and remains an international business hub.  However, the international city competitiveness scores of the two cities are narrowing in the past 6 years. The survey findings include: On International City Competitiveness, the highest average competitiveness score is 5, Hong Kong’s score is 4.08, whereas Shanghai’s is 3.21; the difference is 0.87 Hong Kong’s score is still ahead that of Shanghai, but the difference is narrowing, a consistent behavior observed during the past five years Hong Kong consistently scored higher in competitiveness over Shanghai in all the three PCC dimensions: – Base for Sustainable Economic Growth: Hong Kong’s score for sustainable economic growth is 4.02 and Shanghai is 3.05, the difference is 0.79. – Investment Environment: Hong Kong’s score is 4.13 and Shanghai is 3.05, the difference is 1.08. – Image of Globalization: Hong Kong’s score is 4.30 and Shanghai is 3.63, the difference is 0.67. Professor Tuan Chyau and Professor Linda Ng pointed out that, compared to last year, the investment environment of Hong Kong is still seen as the most significant dimension over Shanghai, but the gap between Hong Kong and Shanghai is narrowing in image of globalization. The difference in the scores of the three dimensions is also decreasing, this is due to the higher scores given to Shanghai by MNCs (especially in investment development), and no increase in the scores given to Hong Kong. The survey results show that Hong Kong still has a proper platform for market economy and well established financial system, which will help Hong Kong to remain as an international hub. Ms. Karen Tang, the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation reflected that the study is very useful for Hong Kong’s policy makers to consider and formulate Hong Kong’s economic and financial polices. The survey result clearly points out that Hong Kong still excels Shanghai in a large extent in investment environment, the policy makers must endeavour to continue to provide an investment-friendly system to maintain Hong Kong’s competitiveness. Metropolises like Hong Kong and Shanghai are facing challenges of globalization. Both cities should capitalize their resourceful and productive hinterland, and act as the gateway to the World for China, to strengthen their bases for sustainable economic growth. The Better Hong Kong Foundation believes that through developing economic ties, the two cities will be able to enhance both their international competitiveness. The Foundation will explore with the research team and other related organizations in Mainland and overseas to promote interaction and more collaboration between the two cities. For more details of the report, please click here Guest Speakers at the Briefing Session: (From left)Prof Anshan You,Director, Hongkong & Macau Studies Centre, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences; Prof Xuejin Zuo, Executive Vice President, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences & Director, Institute of Economics, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences; Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation; Prof. Chyau Tuan, Faculty of Business Administration, CUHK, and Prof. Linda Ng, Faculty of Business Administration, CUHK Ms. Karen Tang (Central) Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation introduced the guest speakers The Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences Hong Kong Macau Research Centre invites Ms. Karen Tang as its Council Member. Prof. Zuo (left) presented the appointment certificate to Ms. Karen Tang (right).

The Better Hong Kong Foundation’s trustee Mr. Leung Wai Fung, Council Member Mr. Woo Chu and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the annual dinner organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. Foundation trustee Mr. Leung Wai Fung (2nd from right) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (1st from right ) with Mr. Wang Hui, Deputy Director-General of EAD, Head of Commercial Office, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in HKSAR Council member Mr. Woo Chu (1st from ) with Mr. Zhao Huitian, Chief Representative, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade HK & Macau Representative Office (middle) and other guests Foundation trustee Mr. Leung Wai Fung (2nd from right) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (1st from right ) with Mr. Chen Mingde, Vice Mayor of Guangzhou

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was invited to attend the International Cooperation Conference for Asia-Pacific CEOs & Provincial Governors and Mayors held inGuangzhouon13 December 2007. The Conferencewas co-sponsored by the Guangzhou Municipal Government and theAsia-Pacific CEO Association, with theme of the conference being “Harmonious Integration of Global Economy”. Chairman of Asia-Pacific CEO Association and the former Australian Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robert J. L. Hawke attended this Conference. At the conference, Ms. Karen Tang was also appointed Invest Guangzhou International Advisor by the Bureau of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation of Guangzhou Municipality and Guangzhou Municipal Board for International Investment.   For details of the Conference, please go to: www.ap-summit.org The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (second from left) was appointed Invest Guangzhou International Advisor by the Bureau of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation of Guangzhou Municipality and Guangzhou Municipal Board for International Investment at the conference. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (Front row, 7th from the left) attended the International Cooperation Conference for Asia-Pacific CEOs & Provincial Governors and Mayors held in Guangzhou.  

The Chairman of the Better Hong Kong Foundation’s Advisory Committee, Dr. Henry Cheng, hosted a lunch to welcome the Foundation’s two new Council Members, Miss Winnie Ng and Dr. Gerald Chow. Miss Ng is Executive Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus (1933) Ltd., and Dr. Chow is Executive Director of the Chow Sang Sang Group. Dr. Cheng believed that the expertise and experience Miss Ng and Dr. Chow brought to the Foundation would enable it to attain even higher achievements.  Dr. Cheng also thanked members of the Foundation, especially the Chairman of the Executive Committee, Dr. Ronnie Chan, whose long-term and unfailing support have helped the Foundation to realize its goals and missions. Dr. Cheng also commended Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation, for her efforts in leading the Foundation secretariat in organizing many meaningful activities that were very well received by different parties in the past year. He encouraged the team to continue to work closely with the Trustees and Council Members to build a better Hong Kong.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation invited the local media to a New Year Reception to bid farewell to the Year of the Dog and welcome the Year of the Boar. During the reception, the Chairman of the Foundation’s Advisory Committee, Dr. Henry Cheng, and the Chairman of the Executive Committee, Dr. Ronnie Chan, thanked the media for their support of the Foundation’s activities and looked forward to seeing this continue. The Foundation’s Executive Director also took the opportunity to outline its coming events in the Year of the Boar. More than 40 members of the local media attended the reception. Dr. Henry Cheng delivered Lunar New Year message Dr. Ronnie Chan delivered Lunar New Year message Kung Hei Fat Choy! Members of the Better Hong Kong Foundation wishes you a fruitful, healthy and happy year of the pig. (Front from left) Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Henry Cheng, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Li Xu Hua, Ms. Karen Tang (Back from left) Dr. Gerald Chow, Mr. W.F. Leung, Dato’ SJ Wong, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Alice Mak

The Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a luncheon for a group of around 70 Fulbright scholars who attended the Fulbright China Research Forum.  Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Foundation was the keynote speaker for this luncheon. The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Gerald Chow, Ms. Winnie Ng, Dato SJ Wong, Mr. Thomas Wu and Dr. Roy Chung also attended the lunch to exchange views with the Fulbright Scholars.     The Fulbright China Research Forum is an annual meeting of Fulbright scholars who are conducting research in mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The scholars are post-graduates from America, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The Forum is organized by the Hong Kong American Center, supported by 8 universities in Hong Kong. The Fulbright Scholarship and the Forum are sponsored by the US Embassy in Beijing, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and the U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation was honored to have eminent Mainland economist Professor Liu Shucheng speak at a luncheon hosted by the Foundation. Professor Liu is currently a member of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and Director of the Institute of Economics. He is also Editor-in-Chief of the monthly Economic Research Journal and a member of the Experts Committee for the State’s eleventh Five-year Plan. He is an expert on macro economics and China’s cyclical economy.   In his speech, Professor Liu showed the main characteristics of China’s economic growth in recent years. In the new business cycle that started in the year 2000, China’s growth has been smooth and relatively fast, with the grow rate remaining at a modest range of about 8%-10% for seven years successively, and at a higher level of 10% or more for four years successively from 2003 to 2006. This new wave of China’s economic growth is unprecedented in China’s economic development history since its foundation. Based on Part One, Professor Liu analysed the future trends of China’s economy in theyear 2007 and in the coming 3-5 years, focusing on four heated issues: (1) macro regulation and its effect; (2) land, food supplies and the price level; (3) real estate development; (4) international payments imbalances.   The luncheon was well-received, with 70 guests and nearly 50 journalists from all the local media attended Professor Liu’s insightful speech. This luncheon was co-hosted with the Asia Society Hong Kong Centre.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a New Year luncheon for foreign Consuls, Chambers of Commerce and business leaders. The guest speaker at the luncheon was Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of China’s Foreign Ministry in HKSAR.    In his speech, Mr. Lu talked about China’s diplomacy in 2006, Sino-US relations and developments in Northeast Asia. Mr. Lu pointed out that 2006 saw profound and complicated changes in the international situation. China’s adherence to its independent foreign policy of peaceful diplomacy and development has contributed to building a more enduring peace and stability worldwide, and an enabling environment for its internal reforms and modernization drive.   Mr. Lu said that China-US relations have moved forward steadily. President Hu Jintao paid a successful visit to the US President and the two leaders met on many occasions in 2006. As a result, an important relationship has been reached to trying to build a constructive China-US relationship for the 21st century. According to Mr. Lu, China-Russian relations continue to deepen. President Hu and President Putin met five times in 2006 alone, reaching an important consensus on the long-term development of bilateral relations and strengthening strategic coordination.   By overcoming political difficulties, China and Japan saw a turn for the better in their relations. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s visit to China and President Hu Jintao’s meeting with him on the sidelines of the APEC summit have helped to produce a consensus on furthering China-Japan relations.   Nearly 100 guests attended the luncheon. This luncheon was co-hosted by the Asia Society Hong Kong Centre.

The First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest 08 – 11.07.2007 Study Tour to Beijing 16.06.2007 Final 14.04.2007 Semi-final 04.04.2007 Semi-finals briefing 24.03.2007 Preliminary round The First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was jointly organised by Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Better Hong Kong Foundation, and Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Its main objectives were to enhance Hong Kong students’ understanding and interest towards China’s diplomatic affairs; to strengthen students’ pride towards their nation in order to further promote national education; and to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The contest was split into two parts, the first part was held in 2007 during January 1st to February 14th at the participating schools, over 70 secondary schools and almost 50,000 students took part. The second part was an inter-school contests; including a preliminary round, semi-finals and finals. The top 5 schools were awarded a study trip to Beijing, to meet leaders of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and to visit the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse and other noted sights. 117 secondary schools and over 400 students took part in the second part of the contest. This was the first time for an event of this nature to be held in Hong Kong, and the contest was selected as a featured activity for the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR. 08 – 11.07.2007 Study Tour to Beijing The First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest came to an end on June 16th, 2007. Teachers and students of the top 5 schools’ teams visited Beijing from July 8th to 11th, which concluded the Contest. The Better Hong Kong Foundation’s (“The Foundation”) Communications Manager Miss Alice Mak was one of the representatives to lead the delegation. On the day of departure, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in HKSAR, Mr. Lu Xinhua surprised the delegation when he appeared at the airport to send off the delegation. This showed the importance that Commissioner’s Office has paid to the Contest and this visit. The Commissioner wished the students to take this rare opportunity to enhance their understanding towards China’s development. The itinerary of study tour was tight and action-packed. Apart from attending the MFA’s regular press conference, conversing with diplomats, touring the Olympic Game Stadium, the Great Walls, the Imperial Palace etc., they were also granted the opportunity to meet with Mr Yang Jiechi, the newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in person. Minister Yang Jiechi said to the delegation that it was very meaningful to hold the Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest during the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR. He was glad that the students showed interest towards the development of the international position of China, and that they were concerned about the country’s diplomatic affairs. He believed that the students would definitely benefit from this eye-opening experience, and that they would develop an even stronger awareness towards their country’s diplomatic matters. Finally, Minister Yang encouraged everyone by saying that they were the future of Hong Kong, the future of China, and also the future of a better world to come. He hoped that everyone would be hardworking, showed pride towards Hong Kong and China, and became important pillars for the development of Hong Kong and China. Afterwards, Minister Yang took a group photo with the students and their teachers to commemorate this special event. The visiting group also met with Mr He Yafei, the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, whom they received souvenirs from. Mr. He hoped that the students would grasp this chance, do their best to acquire new knowledge, discover their abilities, and to learn serving others, in order to contribute to Hong Kong and China’s development. On behalf of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Miss Alice Mak thanked the Ministry for their warm hospitality, and hoped that there would be more collaboration between the Foundation and MFA in the future, to organize more enlightening events to provide a channel for Hong Kong students to learn more about their country. The Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest received compliments from the MFA’s Department of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Affairs. Director-General of the Department Mr. Gao Zhansheng hosted a lunch to welcome the students. Moreover, the visiting students had the chance to attend a Ministry’s Press Briefing Session. After the conference, MFA’s Spokesman Mr. Qin Gang had a friendly conversation with the students. The students made use of this chance to learn how to become a successful spokesperson. Mr. Qin said that in order to become a successful spokesperson, one must have a firm stance, and they must also have a strong passion towards their country and towards their job. With the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games being an important event, the delegation met with Li Lingwei former badminton world champion, and currently Deputy Director of the International Relations Department of Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, who is now responsible for the promotion of the 2008 Olympic Games. During their meeting, Ms. Li introduced to the students the history of the Olympic Games and the work that has been done in preparation for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. The delegation toured the Display Centre and Construction Sites of the games venues. They witnessed the main stadiums that were still under progress: the “Bird’s Nest” (National Stadium) and “the Water Cube” (National Aquatics Center). Another memorable part of the students’ visit was the trip to the Diaoyutai Guest Statehouse. The students were specifically arranged to visit Fang Fei Villa and the 18th guesthouse in which only leaders of the visiting foreign country could stay. Students also browsed many prized relics of Diaoyutai. Other activities for the Beijing visiting group included: visiting the Jian Fu Garden which was rebuilt and donated by the China Culture Relics Protection Foundation in the Imperial Palace, Lu Qou Qiao Museum, Tiananmen Square flag raising ceremony, The Office of the Government of HKSAR of China in Beijing, and they also visited the Great Wall of China. 16.06.2007 Final The First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest Finals were held on June 16th, 2007 at the Hong Kong Culture Centre in Shatin. After a vigorous competition between five school teams, the CNEC Christian College, Tak Sun Secondary School and Sing Yin Secondary School were proclaimed the Champion, 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up respectively. PLK Tang Yuk Tien College and La Salle College obtained Awards of Merit. The five teams had to compete in 3 different sections including the mandatory question and answer section, the scenario improvisation section and the compete-to-answer section. Through these 3 sessions, the teams showed their diplomatic knowledge as well as their ability to improvise. In the scenario improvisation stage, a student from each team had to act as a Chinese diplomat and had 3 minutes to speak; they had to discuss issues such as China’s Peace development, China’s participation in international affairs, Hong Kong people’s protection from the consul when they were abroad, and how the minister would cope with sudden crisis, etc. Through their agility and strong supporting evidences, the students demonstrated their strong knowledge and understanding of China’s diplomacy. The teams were well-applauded by the judges and audience. In the last section, the compete-to-answer stage, the competition was even more vigorous. After the masters of ceremony announced the winners of the contest, the officiated guests Chief Secretary of HKSAR, Mr. Rafael Hui, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s government in HKSAR, Mr. Li Gong, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in HKSAR,  Mr. Lu Xinhua, Permanent Secretary of the Education Bureau, Mr. Raymond Wong, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Dr. Ronnie Chan awarded trophies, medals, and souvenirs to the winners as well as participants from the semi-finals. The five teams from the finals were awarded to join a study tour to Beijing. During his speech, Commissioner Lu congratulated the students and their teachers, and expressed his recognition of the students’ outstanding performance and their eagerness to compete and learn. Moreover, he felt grateful to the efforts of the Better Hong Kong Foundation and the Education Bureau of the HKSAG Government and other co-organizing units. The Commissioner encouraged the students to work hard in order to contribute to the society in the future. Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Better Hong Kong Foundation Dr. Ronnie Chan said that through the competitors’ eager and passionate participation, he witnessed the pride and interest that students held towards their country. He encouraged the students to strengthen their biliteracy and trilingualism skills, which he believed were the key to success in the international centre of Hong Kong. Judges of the contest included Deputy Commissioner of the MFA of PRC in HKSAR, Mr. Xie Xiaoyang, Vice Chairman of the Basic Law Committee, Ms. Elsie Leung, Vice President of China Forign Affairs University, Professor Qin Yaqing, Vice President, China Institute of International Studies, Dr. Ruan Zongze and Professor Kwok Siu Tong of Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College. 14.04.2007 Semi-finals Semi-finals of the First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest were held on April the 14th at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum. 20 teams representing their schools took part in the contest. After a day of intense competition, La Salle College, CNEC Christian College, PLK Tang Yuk Tien College, Sing Yin Secondary School Tak Sun Secondary School were able to advance to the finals. According to the regulations, the 20 schools were divided into 4 groups of 5 schools and competed in 3 different sections including the mandatory question and answer section, the scenario improvisation section and the compete-to-answer section. Through these 3 sessions, the teams showed their diplomatic knowledge as well as their ability to improvise. In the scenario improvisation stage, a student from each team had to act as a Chinese diplomat and had 3 minutes to speak, this section was challenging for competitors as they had to improvise and discuss certain topics in merely 3 minutes. The judges of the semi-finals included Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Mr. Min Junfu, Deputy Commissioner of the MFA of PRC in HKSAR, Mr. Tu Wentu of the Commissioner of the MFA of PRC in HKSAR, and Professor So Wai Chor from the Open University. 04.04.2007 Semi-finals briefing The First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest preliminary round was held on the 24th of March. The 20 school teams who scored the most would be able to advance to the next level – the semi-finals. On April 4th 2007, the briefing and the ceremony of drawing lots were held at the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Ms. Karen Tang of the Better Hong Kong Foundation drew lots to determine the grouping and order of the competing school teams. 24.03.2007 Preliminary round The preliminary round was held on March 24th, 2007 at the Lam Woo International Conference Center of the Baptist University. The contest was a written test; the 20 teams with the highest scores would be able to proceed to the next level. Question topics included Chinese diplomatic facts, Hong Kong’s history with the diplomats, etc. 117 local secondary schools, with more than 400 students, participated in the written competition. 20 schools were to advance to the semi-finals on April 14th, 2007, and 5 teams from the semi-finals were to advance to the finals on June 16th, 2007. The 20 schools winning teams to the semi-finals included: 1. Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School 2. PLK Tang Yuk Tien College 3. Ying Wa College 4. CCC Ming Kei College 5. Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College 6. Immaculate Heart of Mary College 7. La Salle College 8. SKH Lam Kau Mow Secondary School 9. Yan Chai Hospital Wong Wha San Secondary School 10. SKH Tsang Shiu Tim Secondary School 11. St. Catharine’s School For Girls 12. Tak Sun Secondary School 13. CNEC Christian College 14. T.W.G.Hs. Kap Yan Directors’ College 15. Sing Ying Secondary School 16. Sha Tin Methodist College 17. Hong Kong Chinese women’s Club College 18. Shatin Pui Ying College 19. PHC Wing Kwong College 20. SKH Lui Ming Choi Secondary School Please visit http://quiz.fmcoprc.gov.hk for more information about the Contest. On the day of departure, Commissioner Lu Xinhua saw the visiting group off at the airport Students took a picture before the “Chinese People Fight against Japanese War Museum” Students visited Lu Qou Qiao The Foundation’s Communications Manager Miss Alice Mak (3rd from right) with Commissioner Lu (4th from right) Students visited the construction work sites of Olympic game venues Model of the Olympic game venues Students bought a lot of souvenirs at the souvenir shop inside the Organizing Committee’s office building “Ju Yong Guan” – The First Gate in the World Group photo at Ju Yong Guan Students watched the solemn Tiananmen Square flag raising ceremony Students visited Jian Fu Juan Garden which was rebuilt and donated by the China Culture Relics Protection Foundation in the Imperial Palace, and was not open to the public MFA’s Spokesman Mr. Qin Gang had a friendly conversation with the students. Mr. Qin Gang took photo with students in front of the spokesman’s stage Group photo at the Office of the Government of HKSAR of China in Beijing Mr. Gao Zhansheng , Director-General of MFA’s Department of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Affairs, introduced to students the work of the Department. Assistant Foreign Minister He Yafei encouraged students to do their best to acquire new knowledge, discover their abilities, in order to contribute to Hong Kong and China’s development. Minister Yang Jiechi met the students in person and he hoped that everyone would be hardworking, showed pride towards Hong Kong and China, and became important pillars for the development of Hong Kong and China. Group photo at Diaoyutai Guest Statehouse the students’ outstanding performance won the applause of the guests and audience La Salle College students PLK Tang Yuk Tien College’s students 1st runner-up: Tak Sun Secondary School 2nd runner-up: Sing Yin Secondary School The competing teams in the final round. The front row is CNEC Christian College students who won the cup The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman, Mr. Ronnie Chan spoke at the ceremony. Former Chief Secretary of HKSAR, Mr. Rafael Hui, awarded the trophy to the Champion, CNEC Christian College. Commissioner Lu Xinhua presented souvenir to officiating guest Mr. Rafael HUI. Commissioner Lu Xinhua presented souvenir to officiating guest Mr. Li Gang The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman, Dr. Ronnie Chan presented souvenir to the Chief Judge, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Xie Xiaoyan. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman, Dr. Ronnie Chan presented souvenir to the one of the judges Vice Chairman of the Basic Law Committee, Ms. Elsie Leung The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman, Dr. Ronnie Chan presented souvenir to the one of the judges Vice President of China Foriegn Affairs University, Professor Qin Yaqing The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman, Dr. Ronnie Chan presented souvenir to the one of the judges Vice President, China Institute of International Studies, Dr. Ruan Zongze The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman, Dr. Ronnie Chan presented souvenir to the one of the judges Professor Kwok Siu Tong of Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College. The officiating guests, represnetatives of the organizing parties, all other guests and students took a group photo after the ceremony. Members of the Foundation took photo with the officating guests: (left from the midle row): Mr. Leung Wai Fung, Miss Winnie Ng, Mr. Woo Chu and Mr. Roy Chung As a judge of the contest, Foundation’s executive director Ms. Karen Tang (1st from right) paid close attention to the students’ performance. As a judge of the contest, Foundation’s executive director Ms. Karen Tang (1st from right) paid close attention to the students’ performance. Foundation’s executive director, Ms. Karen Tang (5th from left, last row), students, master of ceremony and judges take part in a group photo The competition on stage is vigorous; and the audiences off stage are equally anxious One of the five teams to proceed to the finals: Sing Yin Secondary School One of the five teams to proceed to the finals: Tak Sun Secondary School One of the five teams to proceed to the finals: CNEC Christian College One of the five teams to proceed to the finals: P.L.K. Tang Yuk Tien College One of the five teams to proceed to the finals: La Salle College Foundation’s executive director Ms. Karen Tang draws lots Ms. Karen Tang presents the ballots indicating the order in which the students will speak Students working hard at the examination venue Deputy Commissioner Mr. Xie Xiaoyan talking to students about how they prepared for the competition

The Better Hong Kong Foundation’s Executive Director, Ms. Karen Tang was invited by the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences as a speaker and moderator at a seminar on “The Interactive Relationship between Shanghai and Hong Kong in the Changing Economy”. Ms. Tang gave a speech on the impact of CEPA on Hong Kong and its economic relationship with the Mainland. In her speech, Ms. Tang described the economic situation after the introduction of CEPA, which reflected how CEPA benefited not only Hong Kong but also the Mainland. Such mutually beneficial relationships were anticipated to be further deepened after China’s entry into the WTO in 2007; and more collaborative platforms should be further developed between Hong Kong and Shanghai.

  The Better Hong Kong Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was invited by the Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong to attend the Shanghai Hong Kong Development Forum held in Shanghai on 15-16th December 2006. The theme of the forum was ‘A Comparative Study of the Competitiveness between Shanghai and Hong Kong’.    The Better Hong Kong Foundation will organize similar seminars in Hong Kong in the first quarter of 2007. Further details will be announced on our website.  

The Better Hong Kong Foundation is a supporting partner of the “Development Strategy of the Border between Hong Kong and Shenzhen” Seminar. Mr. Leung Cheuk-Fai, Deputy Director of Planning/Territorial of the Planning Department of the HKSAR Government, and the Hon. Cheung Hok-Ming, SBS, JP, member of the Legislative Council, as well as other high-ranking representatives of different fields from Hong Kong and Shenzhen presented their outlook and possible development strategies for the area.

(1)  October – December 2006: Seminar Series in Hong Kong(2) 10 – 15 December 2006: Study Tour to Mainland China(3)  3 – 10 February 2007: Study Tour to the USA TheBetter Hong Kong Foundation sponsored and co-organised theStudy Program on theJudicial & Legal Systems of Hong Kong, MainlandChina& theUSAforHong Kongjournalists, which was organized by theHong Kong Federation of Journalists (HKFJ). Theprogram is thefirst stageof thelong-term development of local journalists and media professionals, under the“Hong Kong Journalists Professional Training Plan” of theHKFJ. Thestudy program aims to cover: 1.          a comprehensiveoverview of thejudicial and legal systems,2.          the basic legal procedures in both civil and criminal cases,3.          laws and issues related to the media and the court, and4.          ways to improve reporting in the legal and judicial areas.  Theprogram commenced with an opening ceremony officiated by theSecretary for Justice, theHon. Mr. Wong Yan Lung. Thestudy program includes threeparts: The 1st part:           Seminar Series held in Hong Kong4 seminars were held to brief journalists on the background of the judicial and legal systems ofHong Kong, MainlandChina and theUSA. It was attended by close to 100 journalists. TheFoundation invited Mr Gary Hengstler, Dean of theNational Center of Courts and Media, and Professor Long ChongZhi of theSouthwest University of Political Scienceand Law, to cometoHong Kongto speak at theseminars. The 2nd part:         Study Tour to ChongqingThe five day study tour was supported by the Southwest University of Political Science and Law,Chongqing. Members attended seminars onChina’s civic law, criminal law and judicial review, and visited the District Courts and High Court. Members met with High Court Judges and District Court Judges; attendedexchange sessions with Chinese journalists who wereexperienced in court reporting; and met with legalexperts. More than 15 journalists joined the study tour. TheFoundation invited Mr Gary Hengstler, Dean of theNational Centrefor Counts and Media, and Professor Yan Mei-ning, Assistant Professor of Hong Kong Baptist University, to join thedelegation as its Academic Advisors.  The 3rd Part:          Study Tour to theUSAIn the USA, members visited San Francisco, Reno and Washington DC. Meetings were arranged with local judges and local journalists, the latter sharing their experience of court reporting.  Members also attended seminars organized by the National Centre for Courts and Media, and the School of Journalism, University of Nevada in Reno. In Washington DC, members attended a seminar hosted by Georgetown Unive

The Better Hong Kong Foundation is one of the supporting organizations of the seminar on “Cooperation between Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macao in Developing the Financial Industry” organized by the Guangzhou Municipal People’s Government. The purpose of this seminar was to explore the prospects for cooperation within the financial industry in Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macao.  The Vice-mayor of Guangzhou, Mr. Chen Mingde led a delegation with officials from the related Bureau and businessmen from the financial enterprises to attend this event. During the seminar, participants were briefed on the present situation in financial services, development plans and preferential policies of Guangzhou after the introduction of the “Detailed Regulations Concerning Guangzhou’s Support of the Development of the Financial Industry” and “Administration of the Special Fund for the Development of the Financial Industry” in 2006. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the “Cooperation among Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macau in Developing Financial Industry” Seminar, which is an event supported by the Better Hong Kong Foundation Ms. Karen Tang and the Vice-mayor of Guangzhou, Mr. Chen Mingde at the seminar

The Better Hong Kong Foundation joined the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in HKSAR and the Education and Manpower Bureau of the HKSAR Government in organizing the First Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest. The aims of the contest were to promote student interest in the diplomatic knowledge of the country and to enhance their sense of national pride. The event has been selected by the HKSAR government as one of the major events to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong’s reunification with the mainland. Other organizing partners of the Contest are the Chinese Academy of Foreign Affairs, Mingpao, iCable, CCTV and Wenweipo. The contest is divided into two parts. The first part is an intra-school contest, which will begin on 1st January 2007. The second part is an inter-school contest, the first round of which will be held on 24th March 2007, with the Semi-Final and Grand Final to be held on 14th April and 16th June 2007 respectively. The Champion, the First Runner-up, the Second Runner-up, and two Consolation Prize winners of the Grand Final will be invited to a study tour in Beijing to meet officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They will also visit the Diao Yu Tai State Guesthouse and other famous scenic spots in Beijing. Organizing Committee Members: (From left): Prof. Arthur Li, Secretary for Education and Manpower; Mr. Lu Xin Hua, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR; Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Better Hong Kong Foundation Organizing Committee Members with members of the Working Group: (From left): Miss Alice Mak, Communications Manager of the Better Hong Kong Foundation; Miss Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation; Mr. Song Rong Hua, Spokesman of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR; Prof. Arthur Li, Secretary for Education and Manpower; Mr. Lu Xinhua, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR; Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, Mr. Wong Hung Chiu, Permanent Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr. Yung Po Shu, Principal Education Officer and Mr. Ming Jun Fu, Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR Representatives of the organizing parties showing the poster of the event: (From Left) Mr. Song Rong Hua, Spokesman of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR, Miss Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation; Mr. Yung Po Shu, Principal Education Officer of the Education and Manpower Bureau Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation speaks at the press conference

The Better Hong Kong Foundation is pleased to be one of the founding organizers of the Heart of Gold Awards.  These awards are an annual salute to Hong Kong artists and businesses that have made worthy contributions to sustainable development, with nominations from the Hong Kong Community. This year’s award recipients include Ms. Josephine Siao Fong-Fong, Mr. Leon Lai and The Kowloon Motor Busy.  Ms. Josephine Siao has made significant contributions to promote children protection and fighting against child sexual abuse programmes in Hong Kong. Mr. Leon Lai is not only an ambassador of Hong Kong Unicef, but also a keen supporter of the Community Chest, and has organized several meaningful events to raise funds for the Community Chest.  The Kowloon Motor Bus has actively involved in Hong Kong’s charity services.  Apart from sponsoring a lot of community educational, cultural and sports activities, KMB has also formed “Friends of KMB” to recruit volunteers to serve the deprived of the community.  The award receivers have all made notable contributions to our society. This year’s award ceremony was held on 17th November 2006, Professor Lap-chee Tsui, Vice Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong and Mr. John Chan, Managing Director of KMB conferred the awards to the recipients.  Executive Director of KMB, represented KMB to receive the award. Other founding organizers of the Awards include Ming Pao Weekly, the United Nations Development Programme and the Peace and Development Foundation.   (From left)Trustee’s representative Ms. Li Xu Hua, Council Members Mr. Yeung Koon Yat and Ms. Winnie Ng with our Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang at the ceremony with award recipients and representatives of other organizing parties (From left: Ms. Josie Chau, Ms. Karen Tang, Prof. Lap-chee Tsui, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Clarence Chang, Mr. John Chan, Ms. Kathy Chiu & Mr. K.C. Lung) Professor Lap-chee Tsui (left) presented the award to KMB’s Executive Director Ms Winnie Ng and Chairman Mr. John Chan Mr. Clarence Chang (left) represented his wife Ms. Josephine Sao to receive the award from Mr. John Chan Mr. Leon Lai (left) received the award from Mr. John Chan

The Chief Executive of HKSAR, Honourable Donald Tsang delivered his second Policy Address on 11th October 2006.  The Better Hong Kong Foundation attended a joint business community luncheon to meet with the Chief Executive. Trustees and Council Members of the Foundation took the opportunity to learn more about the initiatives put forth by the government and to express their views about the Policy Address directly to the Chief Executive.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation is committed to bringing Hong Kong, China and the rest of the world closer together.  The Foundation has worked with the East-West Center in the U.S. to organize fellowship programs for major U.S. journalists, so that they will have a better understanding of the latest developments in Hong Kong and China.  This year’s program started with a 4-day seminar in Honolulu, after which a delegation with eminent journalists visited Beijing, and the GuangXi Autonomous Region, where they met government officials and learnt about the social, economic and political developments.  Before coming to Hong Kong, the final stop, the delegation spent the weekend in Guilin, where the latest projects in the tourism industry and environmental protection in China were showcased. In Hong Kong, the Financial Secretary, the Secretary for Justice, Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works, Deputy Secretary for Constitutional Affairs and Convenor of the Executive Council met the delegation and updated them with the latest developments in Hong Kong. The delegation visited Cathay Pacific City and met with different business communities during their stay.   Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation felt the delegation visit was a success as it was very well received by the journalists. One of the participants said “It was very enjoyable and educational, and provided a good overview of economic, political and social issues. I especially enjoyed the meetings with Hong Kong officials, who provided valuable perspectives on China and Hong Kong.  Their dual perspectives as Chinese and Westerners are very insightful and helpful. Already, I have highly recommended the fellowship program to other journalists in the U.S., and have encouraged them to apply.” Ms. Tang hopes that the program will continue to be a success and yield such encouraging results. She also noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been unfailingly supportive of this program. The Financial Secretary, the Honorable Henry Tang with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and a representative of the ‘2006 Hong Kong Journalism Fellowship’ during their visit in Hong Kong

The Chief Executive of HKSAR Government Hon. Donald Tsang held a series of meetings with opinion leaders of the community to gather their views before giving his second Policy Address.  Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation represented the Foundation to meet with the Chief Executive and submitted a proposal.   The Better Hong Kong Foundation endeavours to promote Hong Kong’s development overseas and bring Hong Kong, China and the rest of the world closer together. The Foundation has proposed that the Chief Executive make good use of Hong Kong’s edge to strengthen its competitiveness, with measures that include: establishing effective and practical steps to solve Hong Kong’s environmental problems and actualize the “Action Blue Sky” campaign; developing Hong Kong as an international education hub to attract more talent and investment from around the world; assisting Hong Kong’s talent and businessmen in the search for more opportunities in the Region and on the Mainland; establishing the appropriate offices to assist Hong Kong businessmen in exploring business opportunities on the Mainland.  Most important of all, Hong Kong must maintain and strengthen its position as the gateway to China’s huge market.

With the assistance of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of the State Council of the PRC, the Better Hong Kong Foundation organized a visit to Qinghai and Tibet with Heads and senior executives of local media.  Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Foundation and Mr. CY Leung, Convenor of the HKSAR Executive Council also took part.  Dr. Roy Chung, Council Member of the Foundation, led the group to the newly constructed Qinghai-Tibet Railway, and had meetings with senior officials of Qinghai Municipal Government and the Tibet Autonomous Region of the PRC.  Members of the tour all found the visit a fruitful and enjoyable one.  On seeing the success of the trip, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation and the Deputy Leader of the Delegation, has pledged to continue to organise trips like this to stay on top of the latest developments on the Mainland, while enhancing the understanding and communication between the media and members of the Foundation. Meeting with Vice Governor of Tibet Autonomous Region of PRC Group Photo at Potala Palace

The Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the Hong Kong SAR, Mr. Lu Xinhua hosted a lunch for trustees and council members of The Better Hong Kong Foundation. Members of the Foundation had the opportunity to learn more about the work of the ministry and the Commissioner’s Office in Hong Kong, and were able to exchange ideas about international and local affairs with the officials, resulting in a constructive and useful lunch meeting. The Foundation will organize more activities with the MFA in the near future. Commissioner Lu Xinhua with Trustees and Council Members Commissioner Lu Xinhua exchanged views with Trustees and Council Members

The Better Hong Kong Foundation has a long and established friendship with Governor Yu which began when he was the mayor of Shenzhen. So an occasion like the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC) luncheon felt more like a gathering of old friends – where the Foundation members were able to enjoy the company of Governor Yu and the Tai Yun delegation. The Foundation will continue to stay in touch with Governor Yu and the delegation, and to help promote business opportunities between Shanxi and Hong Kong. Council Members with Governor Yu Youjun (From right) Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Governor Yu Youjun

Sweden has a long history of trading with Guangzhou. ‘The Gotheborg’ is a replica of a traditional Swedish ship and is a vivid symbol of the long history of trade relations between Sweden and Guangzhou. The Guangzhou Municipal Government held a series of events to celebrate the return visit of ‘The Gotheborg’ to Guangzhou.   With the invitation from the Government News Office of Guangzhou, the Better Hong Kong Foundation has organised a group of foreign correspondents based in Hong Kong to visit Guangzhou and to cover the events. Executive Director of the Foundation Miss Karen Tang met with the Director of the News Office to discuss future collaborations. The Swedish Ship “The Gotheborg” (From left) Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Guan Zhijian, Head of the Government News office of Guangzhou, Mr. Mark Zavadskiy Senior Correspondents in HK

The Better Hong Kong Foundation marked a change in leadership in June 2006. To bid the outgoing Chief Executive Mr. George Yuen a fond farewell, and to welcome the new Executive Director Miss Karen Tang, a special dinner was held at the Hang Lung Group headquarters. The event was hosted by Dr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of the Foundation’s Executive Committee, and joined by Trustees and Council Members of the Foundation.   Dr. Chan commended Mr. Yuen for his long-term service to the Foundation and for having paved the way for the Foundation’s future development. He also shared his appreciation for Miss Tang’s experience in the field of media and communications, as well as his expectations for the Foundation. Trustees and Council Members pledged to fully support Miss Tang, whom they believed would lead the Foundation to even greater achievements in the near future. (Front from left) Ms. Li Xu Hua, Ms. Karen Tang, Dr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. George Yuen, Mr. Bunny Chan (Back from left) Alice Mak, Mr. Oscar Chow, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Ben Wong, Mr. Ng Wai Hung, Mr. Wong Kin Yip, Mr. Thomas Tang, Dr. Choi Lung Wai, Mr. Woo Chu (From left) Ms. Karen Tang, Dr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. George Yuen

Members of the Better Hong Kong Foundation participated in the first Open Day of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hong Kong Office, which included a presentation to help the participants understand more about the Ministry and its work. Some local newspapers reported the event a success and that “the veil of the Ministry was taken off” through this event. (From left) Ms. Alice Mak, Mr. Denny Chan, Ms. Karen Tang, Commissioner Lu Xinhua, Mr. Robert Chan, Mr. Vincent Woo, Ms. Li Xu Hua Members of the Foundation listened to the presentation by Deputy Commissioner Mr. Xie Xiaoyan

The Better Hong Kong Foundation organized a high-level delegation to the United States, which included Miss Elsie Leung, former Secretary for Justice, Miss Winnie Ng; Executive Director, Kowloon Motor Bus; Professor James Tang, Dean of Social Sciences Faculty of the University of Hong Kong, and a Visiting Fellow at the US Brookings Institute; Mr. Alex Reyes, Senior Political Commentator & a then Visiting Fellow at Columbia University; Mr. George Yuen, the Chief Executive of the Foundation, and Miss Karen Tang, the Foundation’s Executive Director elect. During the visit, the delegates presented the U.S. administration, congressmen, business leaders, academia, think tanks and media with the latest on the political and economic situation in Hong Kong, its investment outlook and constitutional development. U.S. participants included representatives from the State Department, the Commerce Department, the Senate and the House, and their Staffers. Furthermore, discussions were held with the Heritage Foundation, the Cato Institute, the Brookings Institute and the Centre for International and Strategic Studies (CSIS) respectively. Delegates also met with the top management of leading U.S. corporations, among them Citibank, HSBC, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and the internationally recognised rating agency, Standards & Poor’s. The delegates attended forums. at four top U.S. universities – including Harvard, Tufts, Stanford and UC Berkeley – where Miss Elsie Leung outlined the importance of rule of law as the core value for the HKSAR under the ‘One Country, Two Systems.’ principle. She also covered other topics such as intellectual property rights (IPR), CEPA and constitutional development. Our delegation with Mr. Stephen S. Roach, Chief Economist and Director of Global Economic Analysis of Morgan Stanley (Fourth from right) Our principal delegate, former Secretary for Justice, HKSAR, Ms. Elsie Leung was invited to speak at Stanford University

The 2006 China Urban Competitiveness Study (Hong Kong) was organized by The Better Hong Kong Foundation, and co-organized by the Institute of Finance and Trade Economics, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies, at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. “The 2006 Blue Book on China Urban Competitiveness”, the 4th annual report in the series, was published in March 2006. The project was led by Dr Ni Pengfei at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The report this year covered Hong Kong, Macau and – for the first time – nine cities in Taiwan, with contributions from about 100 scholars from Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. The report identified the core advantages of 200 Chinese cities, and ranked their urban competitiveness based on various indicators. The top 20 cities were: Hong Kong, Taipei, Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Kaohsiung, Macau, Hsinchu, Chilung, Ningbo, Suzhou, Tainan, Tianjin, Xiamen, Dalian, Wuxi, Shenyang and Qingdao. The report also compared the competitiveness of 15 “Urban Clusters” (UC). The top five were: Yangtze River Delta UC, Pearl River Delta UC, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei UC, Shandong Peninsula UC, Middle and South Liaoning UC. The competitiveness of the Pearl River Delta UC, which includes Hong Kong, closely followed that of the Yangtze River Delta UC. The theme of this year’s report was “The Housing Market: The Barometer of Urban China”, and featured detailed analyses of housing markets and their impact on urban competitiveness. The report revealed that the real estate market in 35 large and medium cities was in an unhealthy state. The Hong Kong case was analyzed by Professor Shen Jianfa and his colleagues at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Due to continuous economic growth, the real estate industry in Hong Kong was strong, and real estate prices had been rising for some time, despite some fluctuations. The real estate industry made significant contributions to government revenue, GDP, employment and the financial sector. Expensive housing and office rents raised the prices of Hong Kong products and services, and labour intensive industries had to move to low-cost areas as a result. But the urban competitiveness of Hong Kong was not affected, as strong and competitive industries – such as financial, trade and logistics services – have emerged in Hong Kong since the 1980s. Without these industries and their competitiveness, high real estate prices would have affected the urban competitiveness of Hong Kong. Sustaining Hong Kong’s emergent industries was critical for it to stay competitively ahead of other cities. Foundation co-organized Institute of Finance and Trade Economics of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the Chinese University of HK released《The 2006 Blue Book on China Urban Competitiveness》Study Dr. Ni Pengfei (first from right) presented the content of the Study