2011 - 2015

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Qiu Guohong during his visit to Hong Kong in December 2015. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Samson Chan, Mr. Andrew Yu and Mr. Alex Yip and Corporate Sponsor’s Representative Mr. Jeff Zhang hosted the luncheon for Ambassador Qiu on 18 December 2015. Dr. Hu Yifan and Ms. Rosana Wong were also invited to join the luncheon.   Ambassador Qiu Guohong (front row, 3rd right) with the Foundation’s members and guests

On 11 November 2015, the Foundation was pleased to have Mr. Cheung Chi-kong, Member of the Executive Council and Executive Director of the One Country Two Systems Research Institute invited to speak on “The Post-constitutional Reform Era in Hong Kong”. Mr. Cheung shared and exchanged views with the Foundation’s members on political, economic and livelihood issues. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Corporate Sponsors Mr. Pan Jun and representative Mr. Edward Chan; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Dominic Pang, Mr. Andrew Yu and Mr. Alex Yip attended the luncheon meeting.   (L to R) Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Cheung Chi-kong, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Pan Jun and Dr. Roy Chung

The Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CCPC), organized the forum on “Shanghai and Hong Kong in One Belt, One Road: Roles, Opportunities and Challenges” on 29 October 2015 aimed at further promoting collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the tenth annual forum that was jointly organized by the three organizations. This year’s forum was supported by Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation and Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai. More than a hundred of experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the forum. The Deputy Chairman of Shanghai CCPC Mr. Jiang Liang, Secretary of the CPC Committee of the SASS Prof. Yu Xinhui together with the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan officiated the opening ceremony of the forum. Invited by the Foundation, Mr. Ben Zhang and Mr. Henry Shi from Haitong International Securities Group Ltd gave presentations in the afternoon session of the forum.   Mr. Ronnie Chan gives an opening remark   The Foundation’s Corporate Sponsor Mr. Andrew Fan, Council Member Mr. Andrew Yao and guests Ms. Mimzy Sze and Mr. Edward Chan also participated in the forum.   (From 3rd left to right): Mr. Andrew Fan, Ms. Victoria Tang (Director, Shanghai ETO), Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Shiu Sin-por (Head, Central Policy Unit), Mr. Andrew Yao and Ms. Mimzy Sze

On 23 October 2015, the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying hosted a luncheon for members of the Better Hong Kong Foundation. Mr. Leung shared and exchanged views with the Foundation’s members on economic and livelihood policies, and business opportunities arising from “One Belt, One Road” to Hong Kong. Members attending the luncheon included Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng; Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Corporate Sponsors Dr. Lin Yong and Mr. Andrew Fan; Council Members Mr. Oscar Chow, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Dominic Pang, Mr. Andrew Yao, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Dario Pong and Mr. Alex Yip; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang.  Group photo with the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying

Invited by the HKSAR Government, Mr. Masahiko Komura, Chairman of Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarians League as well as Vice-President of Liberal Democratic Party in Japan visited Hong Kong from 21 to 24 October 2015. On 23 October 2015, the Foundation’s Trustees Mr. Victor Cha and Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Corporate Sponsor Mr. Andrew Fan; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Komura and exchange views on issues of common concern.   (L to R) Mr. Akiyuki Hagino, Mr. Victor Cha, Mr. Andrew Fan, Mr. Masahiko Komura, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Ms. Karen Tang

Invited by the HKSAR Government, the Delegation of US Congressional Staffers visited Hong Kong from 11 – 17 October 2015. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for the delegation on 15 October 2015. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, representative of Corporate Sponsor Mr. Wesley Kong; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Frankie Yeung; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Dr. David Wong, Mr. Johnny Mok and Mr. Franklin Lam joined the luncheon to exchange views with the delegates on the developments of the Mainland China and Hong Kong.   With the Delegation of US Congressional Staffers  

In an effort to enhance the understanding of China and Hong Kong by American media, since 1996 the Foundation has invited between six to eight 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 organized the 6th 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. The theme of this year’s program is “Bridging the Gaps in Understanding between China and the United States”.   A delegation of six senior U.S. journalists visited Beijing, Xi’an and Hong Kong from 4 – 16 September 2015 while five Chinese journalists visited New York and Washington D.C. in the U.S. during the same period. After their respective study tours, all Chinese and American journalists met in Washington D.C. to report on their experiences and to exchange opinions on how media coverage of each country can be improved. Through direct dialogue with local authorities and communities in different areas and seeing the developments for themselves, the U.S. journalists gain a better understanding of the current situation and future development of Hong Kong and Mainland China.   List of U.S. journalists: –          Mr. Daniel BEEKMAN, Reporter, Seattle Times, Washington –          Mr. Andy CURLISS, State Government Editor, The News & Observer, North Carolina –          Ms. Carrie HALPERIN, Producer at Fareed Zakaria GPS, CNN, New York –          Ms. Lomi KRIEL, Reporter, The Houston Chronicle, Texas –          Mr. Robert LITTLE, Senior Investigative Editor, National Public Radio, Washington DC –          Ms. Sandra WARD, Senior Editor, Barron’s, New York   Organizations visited: Beijing –          Ministry of Foreign Affairs –          National Development and Reform Commission –          National Health and Family Planning Commission –          HKSAR Government Office in Beijing –          China Institute of International Studies –          School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University –          Xinhuanet –          Wall Street Journal, Beijing Bureau   Xi’an –          Mr. Han Song, Vice Mayor of Xi’an Municipal People’s Government –          Xi’an Hi-tech Industries Development Zone –          Xi’an International Trade & Logistic Park –          Micron Technology Xi’an Company –          Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum –          Shaanxi History Museum –          Tang West Market Museum –          Museum of Forest of Stone Tablets –          Big Wild Goose Pagoda –          South Gate of Ancient City Wall   Hong Kong –          Mr. Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR –          Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR –          Mr. Rimsky Yuen, Secretary for Justice of the HKSAR Government –          Deputy Commissioner Song Ru’an, Office of Commissioner of the PRC’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR –          Mr. Tom Cooney, Deputy Consul General of American Consulate General –          Ms. Starry Lee, Member of the Executive Council cum Legislative Councilor   –          Hong Kong Monetary Authority –          Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd –          West Kowloon Culture District Authority –          American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong –          Vision 2047 Foundation   List of Chinese journalists –          Mr. ZHAO Cheng, Vice President, Liaoning Bureau, Xinhua News Agency –          Ms. QI Dongxiang, Deputy Director, Commentary and Theoretic Department, Economic Daily –          Mr. YI Bowen, Vice Director, Important News Department, Hunan Daily –          Ms. QU Ge, News Anchor, Jiangxi Radio and TV Station –          Ms. GUO Huiting, Reporter, Radio and TV Station of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps   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 to understand more about the general views from the U.S. interlocutors on the relationship between China and the U.S. Meeting with representatives from Information Department and Department of North America and Oceania, Ministry of Foreign Affairs     Meeting with representatives from Information Department and Department of North America and Oceania, Ministry of Foreign Affairs  Meeting with Mr. Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR Meeting with Mr. Tung Chee-hwa (4th right), Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR On behalf of the Foundation, Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (middle) hosting a dinner where members of the Foundation and guests exchanging views with the delegation on various issues Chinese and U.S. journalists met at Washington DC for exchange and dialogues 

Organised by the US-Asia Institute and in partnership with the Information Services Department of the HKSAR Government, the US Congressional Black Caucus Delegation visited Hong Kong from 6 – 19 August 2015, after their trip to the Mainland China. The delegation was led by the Honorable G. K. Butterfield and joined by the Honorable Charles B. Rangel, the Honorable Henry C. Johnson Jr. and the Honorable Gwen S. Moore. Chaired by the Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the Foundation hosted a dinner for the delegation on 18 August 2015. The dinner was joined by the Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Peter Lo and Mr. Anson Chan; Corporate Sponor’s representative Mr. Ben Zhang; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Johnny Mok, Dr. David Wong and Mr. Franklin Lam.     (Sitting, L to R) Congressman Henry C. Johnson Jr., Congressman G. K. Butterfield, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Congressman Charles B. Rangel and Congresswoman Gwen S. Moore (Standing, L to R) Mr. Ben Zhang, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Johnny Mok, Mr. Javada Chaudhri, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Norman Lau-Kee, Mr. Philip Ma and Mr. Franklin Lam

As one of the sponsors of the JCI Hong Kong Business Academy 2015, the Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a luncheon for delegates of the Business Academy on 14 August 2015. Organised by the JCI Hong Kong, the Business Academy was an international event for entrepreneurs and young leaders around the world for business and cultural exchange. It was a 4-day event and targeted for around 100 participants. The theme of this year’s Business Academy was “Innovation & Start-up”. Mr. Ronnie Chan gives an opening remark   On behalf of the Foundation, Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan gave an opening remark at the luncheon. Invited by the Foundation, Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, Hon Senior Research Fellow of School of Economics & Finance of the University of Hong Kong and former Government Economist shared his thoughts on the startup ecosystem in Hong Kong with participants. Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou and Mr. Dominic Pang; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Alex Yip, Mr. Allen Fung and Mr. Stephen Wong also joined the luncheon to share and exchange views with delegates.   (L to R) Mr. Allen Fung, Mr. Dominic Pang, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Anthony Leung, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, Mr. Alex Yip and Mr. Stephen Wong

From 2 to 8 August 2015, the 6 winning teams of the 9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest visited Beijing and Jiangsu. Over 40 students and teachers from Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College, Sing Yin Secondary School, CNEC Christian College, Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School, Ying Wa College and PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College joined the study tour.   Heading for Beijing   In Beijing, the group visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and senior diplomats from the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs, the Department of International Organizations and Conferences, and Information Department gave briefings on the nation’s diplomatic policy, China’s involvement in UN and the MFA spokesperson system. Ms. Hua Chunying, Spokesperson and Deputy Director-General of the Information Department spared her valuable time to meet and share views with the students at the press conference hall “Blue Hall”. The group also witnessed the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square and visited National Museum of China, etc.   Sharing by Ms. Hua Chunying, Spokesperson and Deputy Director-General of the Information Department   During their visit to Jiangsu, the group was given a briefing on the induction of Jiangsu Province. The group also visited “Nanjing Treaty” Historical Gallery, the Museum of Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders, the Turtle Head Park in Wuxi, Suzhou Industrial Park, etc and experienced the convenience of the high-speed rail.    Visits Suzhou Industrial Park   To thank for the support and assistance of the teachers, staffs of the organizers as well as the secretariat during the study tour, the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung hosted a dinner gathering after they returned to Hong Kong.   Dinner hosted by Dr. Roy Chung (front row, 3rd right)

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the Final of the 9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 11 July 2015. The contest aims to raise students’ interest in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy. The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu was one of the officiating guests of the Final while Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Mr. Samson Chan attended the event. Other officiating guests included Acting Commissioner Tong Xiaoling, Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs. Carrie Lam, Deputy Director-General of Youth Department of Liaison Office of Central Government in HKSAR Mr. Li Jiyi, Secretary for Education Mr. Eddie Ng, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs of MFA Mr. Ma Zhanwu and Director of Public Diplomacy Division, Information Department of MFA Mr. Gong Yufeng.     (L to R) Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Li Jiyi, Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. Samson Chan   After fierce competition, the championship went to Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College. Sing Yin Secondary School and CNEC Christian College won the Silver awards while Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School, Ying Wa College and PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College won the Bronze awards respectively. Around 300 audiences including students and teachers from primary and secondary schools enjoyed the Final and were amazed by the excellent performances of the finalists.   The competition is fierce   Invited by the Foundation, Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Research Professor of the Institute of Global Economics and Finance and Emeritus Professor of Economics of the Chinese University of Hong Kong was one of the judges for the Final and other judges including Deputy Commissioner Song Ru’an, Vice President of China Institute of International Studies Mr. Guo Xiangang and Professor of China Foreign Affairs University Prof. Xiong Zhiyong.     Panel of Judges: (L to R) Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Mr. Guo Xiangang, Deputy Commissioner Song Ru’an and Prof. Xiong Zhiyong     The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu is one of the award presenters   To celebrate the success of the Contest and express our gratitude to our partnering organizations, the Foundation hosted a celebration dinner which was jointly chaired by Council Members Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. Thomas Woo after the Final.   A study tour to Beijing, Nanjing and Suzhou will be organized for the students, teachers and principals of the winning teams in early August.     Group photo of guests and winning teams   Results of Secondary School Category:   Gold Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College Silver Sing Yin Secondary School   CNEC Christian College Bronze Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School   Ying Wa College   Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College Best Spokesperson Chu Lam-lam (Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College) Merits Queen’s College   La Salle College   Kwun Tong Maryknoll College   Kwun Tong Government Secondary School   Liu Po Shan Memorial College   Heung To Middle School   SKH Lam Woo Memorial Secondary School   N.T. Heung Yee Kuk Yuen Long District Secondary School   Salvation Army William Booth Secondary School   Shatin Pui Ying College  

The Foundation completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 6 to 9 July 2015. The main purpose of the delegation was to foster a better understanding of the political, economic and social developments in both the United States and Hong Kong. This year’s delegation was led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd. Delegates included Council Members Mr. John Lee, Managing Director of Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Mr. Andrew Yao, Chairman of Van Shung Chong Holdings Ltd. The Foundation also invited Dr. David Wong, Chairman of Business & Professionals Federation of Hong Kong as the invited expert of the delegation. The Delegation: (L to R) Mr. John Lee, Dr. David Wong, Mr. Ronnie Chan and Mr. Andrew Yao   The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Commerce); members of the Legislative Branch (Congressional staffers); think tanks (Center for Strategic and International Studies, The Heritage Foundation, Hudson Institute, National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the U.S.-Asia Institute); a financial institution (Morgan Stanley); a university (George Washington University); NGOs (America China Public Affairs Institute and various Jewish associations in New York) and media (Bloomberg). The delegation also visited the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Washington DC. The delegation was honored that the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. (Ambassador Cui Tiankai), the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Liu Jieyi) and the Consulate General of the PRC in New York (Ambassador Zhang Qiyue) hosted luncheons to welcome the delegation respectively. This regular updates and dialogue with the business community in New York and among interlocutors inside the Beltway is important in enhancing greater mutual understanding. The Foundation will endeavor to continue to organize these kinds of visit to promote better understanding and collaboration.   (Please click here to view the bios of the delegates.)   Itinerary   Washington D.C. 6 July 2015 (Monday) Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office –          Mr. Clement Leung, Hong Kong Commissioner, USA –          Mr. Law Kin-wai, Deputy Director-General –          Ms. Beatrice Chiu, Assistant Director-General   Center for Strategic and International Studies –          Dr. Scott Kennedy, Deputy Director of the Freeman Chair in China Studies –          Mr. Scott Miller, Senior Adviser & William M Scholl Chair in International Business –          Ms. Anna Saito Carson, Director for Corporate Relations   Luncheon hosted by America China Public Affairs Institute –          Mr. Fred Teng, President of ACPAI –          Mr. John Negroponte, McLarty Associates –          Dr. Richard Solomon, Rand Corporation –          Mr. Jeffery Bader, Brookings Institution –          Dr. Douglas Paal, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace –          Dr. Richard Bush, Brookings Institution –          Mr. Vikram Singh, Center for American Progress –          Mr. Charlie Cook, The Cook Political Report   The Heritage Foundation –          Mr. John Fogarty, Vice President, Development –          Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center –          Mr. Kim Holmes, Distinguished Fellow –          Mr. Mike Gonzalez, Senior Fellow, Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy –          Mr. Dean Cheng, Senior Research Fellow, Asian Studies Center –          Mr. Anthony Kim, Senior Policy Analyst, Center for Trade & Economics   U.S. Department of Commerce –          Mr. Stefan Selig, Under Secretary for International Trade Luncheon hosted by America China Public Affairs Institute   Dinner hosted by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office 7 July 2015 (Tuesday) Capitol Hill Breakfast Meeting hosted by the U.S.-Asia Institute U.S. Department of State –          Ms. Susan Thornton, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs –          Mr. Alan Brinker, Desk Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs   Lunch hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China –          Ambassador Cui Tiankai –          Mr. Zhou Jingxing, Chief of the Political Section and Minister-Counselor (Political) –          Mr. Wang Shiquan, Second Secretary   Hudson Institute –          Ms. Elaine Chao, 24th US Secretary of Labor –          Dr. Kenneth Weinstein, President and CEO –          Mr. John Walter, Chief Operating Officer & Director, Hudson Political Studies Program –          Mr. Christopher DeMuth, Distinguished Fellow –          Mr. Eric Brown, Senior Fellow   Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University –          Prof. Robert Sutter, Professor of Practice of International Affairs –          Prof. Steve Suranovic, Associate Professor of Economics and International Affairs –          Prof. Doug Shaw, incoming Senior Associate Provost for International Strategy –          Ms. Lori Cwalina, Associate Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations –          Ms. Meegan McVay, Director of Development   Ambassador Cui Tiankai (middle) hosted a luncheon for the delegation   New York 8 July 2015 (Wednesday) Breakfast Meeting hosted by Morgan Stanley –          Mr. Harold Ford Jr, Managing Director –          Ms. Ellen Zentner, Chief Economist Bloomberg –          Ms. Karen Toulon, Executive Editor, Global Newsmakers – Radio network –          Ms. Bonnie Cao, Reporter, China (based in NY) –          Ms. Sangwon Yoon, Reporter, Emerging Markets – Global Affairs –          Mr. Nathaniel Baker, Reporter, Bloomberg Briefs Luncheon hosted by the Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations –          Ambassador Liu Jieyi, Permanent Representative –          Mr. Yao Shaojun, Counsellor –          Ms. Yang Yi, First Secretary, Political Adviser   Dinner Hosted by America China Public Affairs Institute – “Israel, China, United States, and Hong Kong – A Global Perspective” Participants: Leaders (officers and board members) of the United Jewish Appeal-Federation (UJA), the American Jewish Committee (AJC), the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), and the Israeli Consulate Meeting with Jewish associations in New York   9 July 2015 (Thursday) Breakfast Meeting hosted by the U.S.-Asia Institute National Committee on U.S.-China Relations –          Mr. Stephen Orlins, President –          Ms. Haini Guo, Senior Program Officer –          Mr. Jonathan Lowet, Senior Director, Leadership Initiatives  Luncheon hosted by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New York –          Ambassador Zhang Qiyue, Consul General –          Ms. Liu Yi, Commercial Counselor –          Mr. Guo Zhenguang, Consul   Meeting with National Committee on U.S.-China Relations  

On 12 June 2015, the Foundation was honored to have invited Ms. Tong Xiaoling, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of MFA in the HKSAR to share her insights on the current international environment, China foreign policies as well as opportunities and challenges arise at the luncheon discussion. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, members including Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms. Diana Chou, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Dominic Pang and Mr. Andrew Yu; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also joined the luncheon.     Deputy Commissioner Tong Xiaoling briefing guests on the current international environment

On 8 June 2015, the Foundation was pleased to have invited Mr. Raymond Tam, Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs of the HKSAR Government to attend the luncheon meeting where views on the constitutional developments of Hong Kong were shared. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Dominic Pang, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Dario Pong and Ms. Alice Au, and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon.   (Sitting, L to R) Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Li Xuhua, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Raymond Tam, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Ronald Chan, Mr. Sebastian Man and Mr. Kin Yeung (Standing, L to R) Mr. Dario Pong, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Alice Au, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Dominic Pang and Mr. Andrew Yu

The Foundation hosted a lunch meeting with Dr. Richard Bush during his visit to Hong Kong on 26 May 2015. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng,  Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Andrew Yao and Mr. Dario Pong; and guests Dr. David Wong, Mr. Franklin Lam and Mr. John Chan joined the lunch meeting and exchanged views with Dr. Bush.

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the Semi-final of the 9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 23 May 2015. After four rounds of fierce competition, CNEC Christian College, Po Leung Kuk Tang Yuk Tien College, PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College, Sing Yin Secondary School, Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School and Ying Wa College won the tickets to the Final which will be held in July 2015. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was one of the judges. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (1st left) is one of the judges   Over 5000 students from 66 primary and secondary schools participated in this year’s contest which its theme is “Remember the Victory of Second World War and Treasure for World Peace”. The contest aims to raise the interest of students and the general public in large in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy, and to broaden their horizons. A study tour to Beijing and Nanjing will be organized for the teams entered into the Final. The Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Juliana Lam (1st left) and Dr. Roy Chung (2nd left) attended a few sessions of the Semi-final to show their supports, on their left: Mr. Sun Zhen (2nd right) and Ms. Karen Tang (1st right)    The competition was fierce  

The press conference of 2015 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) was held in Hong Kong on 18 May 2015. It was organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and co-organized by Center for City and Competitiveness of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Led by Prof. Ni Pengfei of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the theme of the 2015 Report is “Giant hand: lift the new map of Chinese cities”, indicating that the integration among cities and regions under the new trend of socio-economic development is going to sustain the future of China. The press conference was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang where Prof. Ni gave a presentation on the report and further explained the overall competitiveness of Hong Kong and Prof. Shen Jianfa from the Chinese University of Hong Kong commented on the findings about Hong Kong. (L to R) Prof. Ni Pengfei, Ms. Karen Tang and Prof. Shen Jianfa briefed local media about the highlights of the report According to the Comprehensive Economic Competitiveness Index in 2014, the top ten cities in are Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Taipei, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Suzhou, Beijing, Macao, and Wuxi. Hong Kong is surpassed by Shenzhen in comprehensive economic competitiveness and is ranked second. The condition of “managing the city without sufficient innovation” does not change. Hong Kong is still over-dependent on trade, financial sector, shipping, tourism, and professional services, while the attention to small-scale, emerging, and potential industries is not enough. There is no new industry to support and lead Hong Kong’s development in long term. Hong Kong leads in sustainable competitiveness but the sub-index of knowledge-based city is weakening. Hong Kong is ranked first with the index of 1. Hong Kong is also ranked first in the sub-indices of harmonious city and urban-rural integrated city. Hong Kong tops the eco-city sub-index, benefiting from the achievement of a series of environmental protection and energy policies. The city is ranked second and third in cultural city and info-city sub-indices respectively. Nevertheless, the city is ranked 19th in knowledge-based city sub-index, fell by 14 places from last year. Although it is still in a leading position, and there are increases in R&D expenditure and number of R&D personnel, the Hong Kong government does not provide sufficient support to innovation and science & technology development. Hong Kong is also lack of bold plans and effective incentive system for technological innovation. Concluding the press conference, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation commented that “Though Hong Kong still tops other cities in the Sustainable Competitiveness Index, it is not easy for Hong Kong, as a mature economy, to maintain its leading position in the Comprehensive Economic Competitiveness index amidst the enormous growing power in the cities in the Mainland. It is a signal for Hong Kong to speed up, to innovate and to reinvent itself with some new driving engines. Hong Kong shall make use of its competitive edges especially its world class services in Finance to ride on and to facilitate China’s new grand plan of “One Belt, One Road”. In the past three years, we have been advocating the Government to map out its long-term development plan for innovation and technology and new emerging industries. However, the establishment of the Innovation and Technology Bureau is delayed. Good opportunities lay ahead of us but we have to seize them. They will not wait for us neither will our competitors”. Before the press conference, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman chaired a luncheon discussion where members of the Foundation and invited guests exchanged and shared their views on the report. Please refer to the PowerPoint presentation of the press conference for highlights of the report. A discussion luncheon chaired by the Foundation’s Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (middle) was held before the press conference

On 14 May 2015, the Foundation was pleased to have Mr. Franklin Lam, Founder of HKGolden50 invited to share with our members and guests his views on Hong Kong’s future. The outlook of the world in the next 5 – 20 years – will deteriorate from static to miserable as ageing populations and debt overburden most economies and make for ugly politics. Mr. Lam pointed out that Hong Kong, situating at the heart of a growth region, is poised to be a shining star in an increasingly desperate world, with potential to rival London and New York within a decade. But there are three bottlenecks that stand in the way of Hong Kong rising to the promise of its “Golden 50 Years” and Hong Kong must add substantial hard and soft capacity to overcome these hurdles. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the seminar was joined by Council Members Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Billy Yung and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; guests Mrs. Eva Cheng, Mr. Maurice Leung, Mr. David Chin, Ms. Margaret Ng, Mr. Johnson Kong, Mr. Peter Kung, Mr. Alex Yip, Mr. Alfred Lee, Ms. Linda Choy, Mr. Stephen Wong and Mr. Gordon Kee. Mr. Franklin Lam shared his views on Hong Kong’s future

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Cheng Yonghua and his wife Madam Wang Wan during their visit to Hong Kong in April 2015. Chaired by the Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Kin Yeung and Ms. Alice Au; Corporate Sponsor’s representative Dr. Ben Zhang; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon on 17 April 2015. Ambassador Cheng Yonghua (front row, 4th left) and Madam Wang Wan (front row, 4th right)

On 8 April 2015, the Foundation was honored to have invited Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR to attend the luncheon meeting where he shared his views on future developments of our nation and Hong Kong as well as the Sino-U.S. relationship. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Sebastian Man, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Andrew Yao and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Franklin Lam, Mr. Alan Wong, Mr. Huang Dizhong and Ms. Vivien Tam also joined the luncheon. (Sitting, L to R) Mr. Alan Wong, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Karen Tang, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Huang Dizhong; (Standing, L to R) Mr. Peter Lo, Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Andrew Yao, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Franklin Lam, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Kin Yeung and Ms. Vivien Tam

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the first round on-line competition of the 9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held from 23 and 31 March 2015. On 24 March 2015, representatives of the organizers visited Holy Family Canossian School and CNEC Christian College respectively to witness the first-round competition. The 16 shortlisted schools from secondary school category will compete in the Semi-final on 23 May 2015. Witnessed the first-round competition at Holy Family Canossian School Results: Primary School Category Champion Kowloon Women’s Welfare Club Li Ping Memorial School 1st Runner-up Ying Wa Primary School 2nd Runner-up Kowloon City Baptist Church Hay Nien Primary School Merits Sau Ming Primary School NTWJWAL Leung Sing Tak Primary School YLPMS Alumni Association Ying Yip Primary School St. Matthew’s Lutheran School (Sau Mau Ping) PLK Tin Ka Ping Primary School Diocesan Boys’ School Primary Division SKH Chu Oi Primary School (Lei Muk Shue) Fanling Government Primary School Fung Kai Liu Yun Sum Memorial School Lam Tin Methodist Primary School Best Performance St. Matthew’s Lutheran School (Sau Mau Ping) Best New Contestant PLK Tin Ka Ping Primary School Secondary School Category (16 Shortlisted Schools for the Final) 1 PLK Tang Yuk Tien College 2 CNEC Christian College 3 Sing Yin Secondary School 4 Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School 5 Ying Wa College 6 Queen’s College 7 La Salle College 8 Kwun Tong Maryknoll College 9 Kwun Tong Government Secondary School 10 Liu Po Shan Memorial College 11 PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College  12 Heung To Secondary School 13 SKH Lam Woo Memorial Secondary School 14 NT Heung Yee Kuk Yuen Long District Secondary School 15 Salvation Army William Booth Secondary School 16 Shatin Pui Ying College Best Performance PLK Tang Yuk Tien College Best New Contestant Lui Cheung Kwong Lutheran College

Financial Secretary, the Honourable John C Tsang, delivered his 2015-2016 Budget Speech to the Legislative Council on 25 February 2015. On 19 March 2015, Mr. Tsang attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon where he talked to the Hong Kong business community about his thoughts and insights behind the new Budget. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Dario Pong, Ms. Alice Au; Corporate Sponsor Dr. Lin Yong’s representative Ms. Mimzy Si; and guests Ms. Regina Kwan, Mr. Chan Kam-keung, Mr. Peter Kung, Dr. Faith Chu and Dr. Joe Fang joined the luncheon. (Front row, L to R) Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Peter Kung, Ms. Alice Au and Dr. Joe Fang; (Back row, L to R) Mr. Andrew Yu, Dr. Faith Chu, Ms. Mimzy Si, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Dario Pong, Mr. Samson Chan, Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Regina Kwan, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Chan Kam-keung

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Liu Jieyi during his visit to Hong Kong in March 2015. Hosted by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Dario Pong and Ms. Alice Au; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Johnny Mok and Mr. Franklin Lam joined the luncheon on 13 March 2015. Ambassador Liu Jieyi (front row, 3rd right) with the Foundation’s members and guests

At the beginning of each year, the Better Hong Kong Foundation always organizes Spring Speaking Luncheon for the Foundation’s members to greet the Consuls General and chairmen of international chambers of commerce in Hong Kong. This year’s luncheon was successfully held on 4 March 2015. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for more than 60 guests. The Foundation was honored to have invited the Secretary for Justice of the HKSAR Government Mr. Rimsky Yuen to give a speech entitled “International Arbitration” at the luncheon. Mr. Rimsky Yuen (2nd right) sharing his views on international arbitration Participants included: The Better Hong Kong Foundation Trustee –  Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd Council Members –  Dr. Roy Chung, Co-founder & Non-Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd–  Mr. Thomas Woo, Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd –  Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies–  Mr. Philip Ma, Chairman & CEO, The Sincere Co Ltd–  Mr. Sebastian Man, Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd–  Ms. Juliana Lam, Managing Director, AML Group Holdings Ltd–  Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Director, Artemis Digital Ltd–  Dr. Raymond Leung, Honorary Chairman, SAE Magnetics (Hong Kong) Ltd–  Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Regional Director-Agency, AXA China Region Insurance Co Ltd–  Mr. Anson Chan, Chairman & CEO, Bonds Group of Companies–  Mr. Douglas Woo, Chairman & Managing Director, Wheelock & Co Ltd–  Mr. Dominic Pang, Co-Chairman, Chun Wo Development Holdings Ltd–  Mr. Andrew Yu, Director, Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium Ltd   Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR –  Ms. Zhao Xu, Deputy Director-General, Department of Media and Public Relations–  Ms. Yu Jing, Deputy Director-General, Department of Media and Public Relations–  Ms. Liu Ying, Legal Officer, Department of Treaty and Law Consulate General in Hong Kong –  Ms. Janaline Oh, Acting Consul General, Consulate General of Australia–  Dr. Claudia Reinprecht, Consul General, Consulate General of Austria–  Mrs. Esther Blythe, Deputy Consul General, British Consulate-General–  Mr. Phan Peuv, Consul General, Consulate General of Cambodia –  Mr. J. Ian Burchett, Consul General, Consulate General of Canada–  Mr. Jose Miguel Gonzalez Serrano, Consul General, Consulate General of Chile–  Mr. Vincent Piket, Head of Office, European Union –  Mr. Arnaud Barthelemy, Consul General, Consulate General of France–  Mr. Graf Lambsdorff, Consul General, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany–  Mr. Christodoulos Margaritis, Consul General, Consulate General of Greece–  Mr. Deepankar Aron, Consul, Consulate General of India–  Mr. Natan Kambuno, Consul (Trade), Consulate General of Indonesia–  Mr. Sagi Karni, Consul General, Consulate General of Israel–  Mr. Antonello De Riu, Consul General, Consulate General of Italy–  Mr. Hitoshi Noda, Consul General, Consulate General of Japan –  Mr. Nurzhan Abdymomunov, Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan–  Mr. Cho Yong-chun, Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea–  Mr. Mohammad Al-Besharah, Consul, Consulate General of the State of Kuwait–  Mr. Tengku Sirajuzzaman bin Tengku Mohamed Ariffin, Consul General, Consulate General of Malaysia–  Mr. Wilfred Mohr, Consul General, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands–  Ms. Gabrielle Rush, Consul General, Consulate General of New Zealand–  Mr. Sergio Avila, Consul General, Consulate General of Peru–  Miss Bernardita L. Catalla, Consul General, Consulate General of Philippines–  Mr. Miroslaw Adamczyk, Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Poland–  Mr. Jacky Foo, Consul General, Consulate General of Singapore–  Mrs. Phumelele Gwala, Consul General, Consulate General of South Africa–  Mr. Juan Manuel Lopez-Nadal, Consul General, Consulate General of Spain–  Mrs. Wictoria Amandustin Weinstock, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Sweden–  Mrs. Rita Hammerli-Weschke, Consul General, Consulate General of Switzerland–  Mr. Haldun Tekneci, Consul General, Consulate General of Turkey –  Mr. Thomas Cooney, Deputy Consul General, U.S. Consulate General–  Mr. Hoang Chi Trung, Consul General, Consulate General of Vietnam International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong –  Dr. Richard Vuylsteke, President, American Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Jan Bogaert, Director, Belgium-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen, Honored Chairman, Danish Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Daniel de Blocq van Scheltinga, Chairman, Dutch Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Wilhelm Brauner, Treasurer, European Chamber of Commerce–  Mrs. Henna Raisanen, Chairman, Finnish Chamber of Commerce–  Mrs. Orianne Chenain, Executive Director, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry–  Mr. Sun Eun Kyun, Chairman, Korean Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. David Whitwam, Chairman, New Zealand Chamber of Commerce–  Dr. Derek Anthony, Chairman, Norwegian Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Vincent Chow, Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of Commerce–  Ms. Karine Hirn, Vice Chairman, Swedish Chamber of Commerce Local Chamber of Commerce –  Mr. Stanley Lau, Chairman, Federation of Hong Kong Industries

On 10 February 2015, the Foundation held its annual spring luncheon with members and media gathering to celebrate the Year of the Goat with members and to strengthen our communication with media friends. The luncheon was hosted by the Foundation’s Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng and the media gathering was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan. Members of the Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (Front Row, L to R) Dr. Roy Chung, Dr. Peter Lam, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Henry Cheng, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Karen Tang and Ms. Li Xuhua; (Back Row, L to R) Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Samson Chan, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Peter Lo, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Andrew Yu and Mr. John Lee Members joining the luncheon included: Trustees – Dr. Henry Cheng            Advisory Council Chairman, BHKF / Chairman, New World Development Co Ltd – Mr. Ronnie Chan            Executive Committee Chairman, BHKF / Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd – Mr. Peter Lam                Chairman, Lai Sun Group – Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu Chairman, Fast East Consortium International Ltd – Ms. Li Xuhua                  Rep of Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon / Special Assistant, Chia Tai Group Council Members – Dr. Choi Lung-wai          President, Goodway Electrical Enterprise Ltd – Dr. Roy Chung               Co-founder & Non-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 – Ms. Winnie Ng               Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd – Mr. Joseph Yu                Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies – Mr. Philip Ma                  Chairman, The Sincere Co Ltd – Mr. Sebastian Man         Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd – Ms. Juliana Lam             Managing Director, AML Group Holdings Ltd – Mr. Leung Wai-fung       Director, Artemis Digital Ltd – Dr. Raymond Leung       Honorary Chairman, SAE Magnetics (Hong Kong) Ltd – Mr. Samson Chan          Chairman & CEO, Manley Toys Ltd – Mr. Frankie Yeung          Senior District Director, American International Assurance Co (Bermuda) Ltd – Mr. Peter Lo                   Chief Country Officer, Hong Kong, Deutsche Bank – Mr. John Lee                  Managing Director, Bank of America Merrill Lynch – Mr. Kin Yeung                Director/Founder, Blanc de Chine – Mr. Andrew Yu               Director, Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium Ltd – Ms. Karen Tang              Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Over 30 journalists attended the media gathering and enjoyed sharing with the Foundation’s members their good wishes for prosperity in 2015. Members joining the media gathering included Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Council Members Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Kin Yeung and Mr. Andrew Yu. Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan introduced the Foundation’s activities of the last year to media at the media gathering

The Honourable Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, delivered his policy address to the Legislative Council in January 2015. On 9 February 2015, Mr. Leung attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon where he talked to the Hong Kong business community and further elaborated his policy address. The Foundation hosted two tables at the luncheon. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Billy Yung and Mr. Andrew Yu; Corporate Sponsor Dr. Lin Yong; and guests Mr. Weber Tsang and Mr. Denny Chan joined the luncheon. (Front row, L to R) Mr. Peter Lo, Dr. Lin Yong, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Eric Leung and Mr. Weber Tsang; (Back row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Denny Chan, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Thomas Woo, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Kin Yeung and Mr. Samson Chan

Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 49th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition was held from 13 December 2014 to 5 January 2015. People were encouraged to express their wishes on quality-of-life and the future of Hong Kong through their photos. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 7 February 2015 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. Gold Award

The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Philip Ma and Mr. John Lee met with Prof. Bark during his visit in Hong Kong. (L to R) Mr. John Lee, Prof. Bark Tae-ho and Mr. Philip Ma

The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung and Ms. Diana Chou met with Dr. Boniface during his visit in Hong Kong. (L to R) Ms. Diana Chou, Dr. Pascal Boniface and Dr. Roy Chung

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan met with Dr. Knapp during his visit in Hong Kong.

Organized by the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF) and co-organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association and Our Hong Kong Foundation, the CUSEF Annual Conference on “China-U.S. Economic Outlook – Towards Greater Interdependence” was successfully held on 3 December 2014. Over 300 guests attended the conference where Nobel Laureate Professor Michael Spence, Director of China’s Economic Research Institute, Professor Fan Gang, and Chinese University of Hong Kong Ralph and Claire Professor of Economics, Lawrence Lau, to share their expertise at the event. Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Chairman of the CUSEF gave an opening keynote at the conference. Participants were able to learn more about the 2015 economic outlook for both China and the U.S. After the conference, a VIP dinner was held where Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui delivered a keynote speech. (L to R) Dr. Victor Fung, Prof. Fan Gang, Prof. Michael Spence and Prof. Lawrence Lau The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Pansy Ho and Mr. Raymond Kwok’s representative Mr. Mak Nak-keung; Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Andrew Yao and Ms. Alice Au also attended the event. Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui delivered a keynote speech at the VIP dinner

The Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CCPC), organized the forum on “Cooperation between Shanghai and Hong Kong: A New Starting Point and Broader Perspective” on 10 November 2014 aimed at further promoting collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the ninth annual forum that was jointly organized by the three organizations. This year’s forum was supported by Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation and Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai. More than a hundred of experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the forum. The Deputy Chairman of Shanghai CCPC Mr. Jiang Liang, the President of SASS Prof. Wang Zhan together with the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan officiated the opening ceremony of the forum. Executive Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan gave opening remarks on behalf of the Foundation  The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha; Council Members Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Andrew Yao and Ms. Diana Chou’s representative Mr. Weber Tsang; and guest Mr. Adriel Chan also participated in the forum. The Foundation’s members taking group photo with Deputy Chairman of Shanghai CCPC Mr. Jiang Liang (middle), the President of SASS Prof. Wang Zhan (4th left) and other representatives

In an effort to enhance the understanding of China and Hong Kong by American media, since 1996 the Foundation has invited between six to eight 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 organized the 5th 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. The theme of this year’s program is “Bridging the Gaps in Understanding between China and the United States”. A delegation of five senior U.S. journalists visited Beijing, Ningxia and Hong Kong from 14 – 25 September 2014 while five Chinese journalists visited Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. in the U.S. during the same period. After their respective study tours, all Chinese and American journalists met in Washington D.C. to report on their experiences and to exchange opinions on how media coverage of each country can be improved. Through direct dialogue with local authorities and communities in different areas and seeing the developments for themselves, the U.S. journalists gain a better understanding of the current situation and future development of Hong Kong and Mainland China. List of U.S. journalists:– Ms. Diane BARTZ, Reporter, Reuters News Agency, Washington DC– Ms. Rebecca DAVIS, Senior Video Producer, NBC News, New York– Mr. Marc STEWART, Reporter/Substitute Anchor, KMGH-TV ABC 7 News, Denver– Mr. Stephen STROMBERG, Editorial Writer, The Washington Post, Washington DC– Mr. Alexander TRAVELLI, Asia Online Editor, The Economist, New Delhi, India Organizations visited:Beijing– Ministry of Foreign Affairs – National Development and Reform Commission– HKSAR Government Office in Beijing – The People’s Bank of China– China Investment Corporation– China Chamber of International Commerce– School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University– Nature Conservancy Beijing Office– China Daily Meeting with Department of North America and Oceania, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ningxia – The People’s Government of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region– Yuehaiwan Central Business District– Lingwu Cashmere Industry Park– Ningxia Yuquanying Wine Base– Najiahu Mosque (Interview Imam in the Mosque)– Najiahu Village (Visit residents)– Shuidonggou Cultural Heritage Site– China Hui Culture Park– Western Xia Imperial Tombs Visit to Ningxia Yuquanying Wine Base Hong Kong– Mr. Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR– Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR – Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu, Office of Commissioner of the PRC’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR– Acting Consul General Tom Cooney, American Consul-General – Mr. Jasper Tsang, President of the Legislative Council – Department of Justice – Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd – Hong Kong Monetary Authority – Urban Renewal Authority – American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong – Vision 2047 Foundation Meeting with Mr. Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR Meeting with Mr. Tung Chee-hwa (3rd right), Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR List of Chinese journalists:– Mr. DU Feijin, Director General, Department of News Coordinating, People’s Daily– Ms. GAO Xiaohong, Director, Faculty of Journalism and Communication, Communication University of China– Ms. Yilina, Journalist and Editor, Department of Uyghur Language Broadcasting, China National Radio– Ms. WAN Majia, Journalist, Radio and Television Station, Qinghai Province– Ms. ZHAN Liping, producer, “Focus on Today”, Channel 4, China Central Television 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 to understand more about the general views from the U.S. interlocutors on the relationship between China and the U.S. On behalf of the Foundation, Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (middle) hosting a luncheon where members of the Foundation and guests exchanging views with the delegation on various issues

Invited by the Foundation, Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Founding Director of the Institute of Global Economics and Finance of the Chinese University of Hong Kong gave a presentation entitled “Challenges to Hong Kong Government under Decelerating Growth of Economy and Aging Population” to our members and guests on 5 September 2014. Hong Kong’s economic growth has steadily decelerated over time and thus increases of government revenue have followed suit. Furthermore, the population in Hong Kong is ageing fast. An expanding and ageing population will put pressure on social welfare and health services expenditure. In his presentation, Prof. Liu assessed, under existing policies, the long-term public expenditure needs and changes in government revenue. Feasible measures to cope with the challenges were also proposed.  Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Bryant Lu and Ms. Alice Au; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Peter Kung, Mr. Franklin Lam, Ms. Anna Lai, Dr. Fang Zhou and Ms. Agnes Ching attended the meeting. Prof. Liu Pak-wai (front row, middle) with members and guests

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Council MembersDr. Roy Chung and Ms. Diana Chou met with Dr. Singh during his visit in Hong Kong.

Invited by the HKSAR Government, the Delegation of Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarians League (JHKPL) visited Hong Kong from 21 to 23 August 2014. The delegation was led by Hon. Yuichiro Hata, Vice Chairman of JHKPL and joined by Hon. Takeshi Maeda, Hon. Shinichi Isa and Hon. Mizuho Onuma. On 23 August 2014, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Dr. Raymond Leung and Mr. Andrew Yao; Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu’s representative Mr. Chris Hoong; and guest Mr. Franklin Lam met with the delegation and exchange views on issues of common concern.

Invited by the HKSAR Government and organized by the U.S.-Asia Institute, the delegation visited Hong Kong from 12 – 15 August 2014. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for the delegation on 15 August 2014. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Tommy Hui and Mr. Dominic Pang; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon to exchange views with the delegates on the developments of the Mainland China and Hong Kong.

The 6 winning teams of the 8th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest started their study tour by visiting Guizhou on 1 August 2014. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also joined the study tour. During their stay in Guizhou, the group visited Bonan Senior Middle School in Kaili City, which over 70% of students is ethnic groups including Hmong, Gaeml, Tujia, etc. An exchange session with local students was arranged. The group also visited a number of famous spots including Thousand Miao Villages, Museum of Miao Culture, Huangguoshu Waterfall, Hall of Confucius Studies, etc. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (left) and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (right) thanking the Foreign Affairs Office of Guizhou Province for their hospitality Visit to Bonan Senior Middle School Later, the group headed to Beijing, the final stop of their journey. On 6 August 2014, the group visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and was honored to be received by Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui. Mr. Zhang briefed students the principles of the nation’s foreign policies. Ms. Hua Chunying, Spokesperson and Deputy Director-General of the Information Department met with the students at the Blue Hall where press conferences are held and introduced the spokesperson system of the MFA to them. Mr. Ren Yisheng from the Department of International Organizations and Conferences talked about the importance and functions of various international organizations and the development of China’s multi-lateral diplomacy. Mr. Ma Zhanwu, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs briefed students on the current international environment, the general principles of China’s foreign policies as well as Hong Kong-related diplomatic works. During their stay in Beijing, the group also visited Capital Museum, the Great Wall, etc. On the last night of the study tour, students shared with each other on the experiences and thoughts gained during the trip at the sharing session.  The group was honored to be received by Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui (front row, middle) The Great Wall  To thank for the support and assistance of the teachers, staffs of the organizers as well as the secretariat during the study tour, the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung hosted a dinner gathering after returned to Hong Kong.

The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Philip Ma met with Mrs. Ruggeri during her visit to Hong Kong.

Organized by the Junior Chamber International Hong Kong and supported by the Foundation, the forum aimed at motivating and inspiring young people to pursue their dreams and turn them into reality. Successful leaders were invited to share their experiences with young people at the forum. Council Member Mr. John Lee attended the forum on behalf of the Foundation. Council Member Mr. John Lee (4th right) attending the forum on behalf of the Foundation

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the Final of the 8th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 5 July 2014. The contest aims to raise students’ interest in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy. The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu was was one of the officiating guests of the Final while Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Dominic Pang; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the event. Other officiating guests included Commissioner Song Zhe, Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs. Carrie Lam, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of Central People’s Government in the HKSAR Mr. Yang Jianping, Under Secretary for Education Mr. Kevin Yeung, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs of MFA Mr. Ma Zhanwu and Deputy Director-General of the Information Department of MFA Ms. Hua Chunying. (L to R) Mr. Li Jiyi of the Liaison Office, Spokesperson of the MFA Ms. Hua Chunying, Commissioner Song Zhe, the Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang Nearly 300 audiences attending the Final to enjoy the excellent performance of students Around 300 audiences including students and teachers from primary and secondary schools enjoyed the Final and were amazed by the excellent performances of the finalists. The competition was fierce and the championship went to Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College which scored 260.4 totally. CNEC Christian College and Sing Yin Secondary School won the Silver awards while Queen’s College, La Salle College and Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School won the Bronze awards respectively. Invited by the Foundation, Member of the Basic Law Committee of the HKSAR Mr. Johnny Mok was one of the judges for the Final and other judges including Deputy Commissioner Tong Xiaoling, Vice President of China Institute of International Studies Mr. Guo Xiangang and Professor of China Foreign Affairs University Prof. Xiong Zhiyong. Panel of Judges: (L to R) Mr. Guo Xiangang, Prof. Xiong Zhiyong, Deputy Commissioner Tong Xiaoling and Mr. Johnny Mok Group photo of organizers, judges, guests and winning teams To celebrate the success of the Contest and express our gratitude to our partnering organizations, the Foundation hosted a celebration dinner after the Final. Hosted by the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung, our Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Mr. Samson Chan; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also joined the dinner. On behalf of the Foundation, Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (front row, middle) hosting a dinner to celebrate the success of the contest A study tour to Beijing and Guizhou will be organized for the students, teachers and principals of the winning teams in early August. Results of Secondary School Category: Gold                     Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College Silver                    CNEC Christian College                              Sing Yin Secondary School Bronze                  Queen’s College                              La Salle College                              Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School Best Spokesman   Cheung Ho-yeung (La Salle College) Merits                    South Tuen Mun Government Secondary School                              Ying Wa College                              SKH Chan Young Secondary School                              Kwun Tong Maryknoll College                              Liu Po Shan Memorial College                              N.T. Heung Yee Kuk Yuen Long District Secondary School                              Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College                              Kwun Tong Government Secondary School                              The Chinese Foundation Secondary School                              Heung To Middle School Results of Primary School Category: Champion             SKH Chu Oi Primary School (Lei Muk Shue) 1st runner up       YLPMS Alumni Association Ying Yip Primary School 2nd runner up      Ying Wa Primary School Merits                   Kowloon City Baptist Church Hay Nien Primary School                             St. Matthew’s Lutheran School (Sau Mau Ping)                             Diocesan Boys’ School Primary Division                             Sau Ming Primary School                             Christian Alliance S.Y. Yeh Memorial Primary School                             H.K.T.A.The Yuen Yuen Institute Shek Wai Kok Primary School                             Shatin Methodist Primary School                             Fanling Government Primary School                             Holy Family Canossian School                             Fung Kai Liu Yun Sum Memorial School

The Foundation completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 24 to 27 June 2014. The main purpose of the delegation was to foster a better understanding of the political, economic and social developments in both the United States and Hong Kong. This year’s delegation was led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd. Delegates included Council Members Mr. Philip Ma, Deputy Chairman & CEO of The Sincere Co Ltd; Mr. John Lee, Managing Director of Bank of America Merrill Lynch; Mr. Andrew Yao, Chairman of Van Shung Chong Holdings Ltd; and Mr. Dario Pong, Managing Director of Ferro Resources Ltd as well as Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation also invited Mr. Johnny Mok, Member of the Basic Law Committee of the HKSAR and Senior Counsel as the invited expert of the delegation. The Delegation: (L to R) Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Johnny Mok, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Andrew Yao and Mr. Dario Pong The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State and National Security Council); members of the Legislative Branch (Congresswoman and congressional staffers); think tanks (The Brookings Institution, The Heritage Foundation, Center for American Progress, National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the U.S.-Asia Institute); a financial institution (Morgan Stanley); a rating agency (Standard & Poor’s); NGOs (Asia Society, America China Public Affairs Institute and Hong Kong Association of New York) and media (The Economist, The New York Times and The Washington Post). The delegation also visited the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Washington DC. The delegation was honored that the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. (Ambassador Cui Tiankai) and the Consulate-General of the PRC in New York (Ambassador Sun Guoxiang and Deputy Consul General Cheng Lei) hosted luncheons to welcome the delegation respectively. The delegation was also received by the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Liu Jieyi) in New York. This regular updates and dialogue with the business community in New York and among interlocutors inside the Beltway is important in enhancing greater mutual understanding. The Foundation will endeavor to organize these kinds of visit to promote better understanding and collaboration. (Please click here to view the bios of the delegates.) Itinerary  Washington D.C.  24 June 2014 (Tuesday)  Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office –  Mr. Kenneth Chan, Deputy Director-General –  Mr. Bill Wong, Assistant Director-General –  Ms. Crystal Lam, Assistant Director-General The Brookings Institution –  Dr. Richard Bush, Director, Center for East Asia Policy Studies and Senior Fellow, Foreign Policy, John L. Thornton China Center  –  Dr. Doug Paal, Vice President, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace –  Dr. Michael Martin, Specialist in Asian Affairs, Congressional Research Service Capitol Hill Luncheon Meeting hosted by the U.S.-Asia Institute The Heritage Foundation –  Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center –  Mr. Dean Cheng, Senior Research Fellow, Asian Studies Center –  Mr. Bill Wilson, Senior Research Fellow for Asia Economy, Asian Studies Center –  Mr. John Von Kannon, Vice President and Senior Counselor –  Mr. Mike Gonzalez, Senior Fellow, Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy –  Mr. Kim Holmes, Distinguished Fellow U.S. Department of State –  Mr. Kin Moy, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs –  Mr. Joel Wiegert, Hong Kong Desk Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs National Security Council –  Ms. Nancy Leou, Director for China and Korean Affairs Meeting at the U.S. Department of State 25 June 2014 (Wednesday)  Breakfast Meeting hosted by the America China Public Affairs Institute Center for American Progress –  Mr. Vikram Singh, Vice President, National Security and International Policy –  Mr. Rudy deLeon, Senior Fellow, National Security and International Policy –  Dr. Melanie Hart, Director, China Energy and Climate Policy –  Ms. Aarthi Gunasekaran, Research Assistant, National Security and International Policy  Lunch hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China –  Ambassador Cui Tiankai –  Ms. Xu Xueyuan, Political Counselor, Chief of Political Section –  Mr. Wang Qing, Political Section The Washington Post –  Mr. Fred Hiatt, Editorial Page Editor  Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY) Ambassador Cui Tiankai (middle) hosting a luncheon for the delegation New York 26 June 2014 (Thursday) The U.S.-Asia Institute Breakfast –  Mrs. Esther Lau-Kee, Trustee –  Mr. Norman Lau-Kee, Trustee –  Mr. David Lew, Trustee –  Dr. Michael Lai, Senior Advisor The New York Times –  Ms. Carol Giacomo, Editorial Board Member Luncheon hosted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York –  Ambassador Sun Guoxiang, Consul General –  Mr. Cheng Lei, Deputy Consul General –  Mr. Zhang Minjing, Consul –  Mr. Guo Zhenguang, Consul The Economist –  Mr. Matthew Bishop, US Business Editor and New York Bureau Chief –  Mr. Matthew Valencia, Special Assignments Editor –  Mr. Tom Easton, American Finance Editor Standard & Poor’s –  Mr. Curt Moulton, Global Head of the Sovereigns and International Public Finance –  Mr. Todd Whitestone, Managing Director, Sovereign Ratings Asia Society: President’s Forum with Arianna Huffington, Chair, President, and Editor-in-chief, Huffington Post Media Group Meeting at Standard & Poor’s 27 June 2014 (Friday) Breakfast Meeting hosted by Hong Kong Association of New York Morgan Stanley –  Ms. Ellen Zentner, Executive Director and Senior Economist for the U.S. –  Mr. David Lew, Senior Vice President, Morgan Stanley Speaking Luncheon hosted by Asia Society: “Hong Kong’s Future: Autonomy and the Road to 2017” by Mr. Ronnie Chan and Mr. Johnny Mok National Committee on U.S.-China Relations –  Mr. Stephen Orlins, President –  Ms. Jan Berris, Vice President –  Mr. David Youtz, Senior Consultant The Permanent Mission of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations –  Ambassador Liu Jieyi, Permanent Representative –  Mr. Yao Shaojun, Counsellor –  Mr. Liang Heng Speaking luncheon hosted by Asia Society: “Hong Kong’s Future: Autonomy and the Road to 2017” by Mr. Ronnie Chan and Mr. Johnny Mok

On 6 June 2014, the Foundation was pleased to have invited Mr. Charles Li, Executive Director, Chief Executive of HKEx to introduce the newly launched “Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect” and its impact on Hong Kong. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, members including Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Anson Chan and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Dr. Lin Yong, Dr. Hu Yifan, Mr. Franklin Lam, Mr. Cheung Wai-lam and Mr. Kevin Liem attended the luncheon discussion. Mr. Charles Li explaining the operation of Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Exchange

On 5 June 2014, the Foundation was honored to have invited Ms. Tong Xiaoling, Deputy Commissioner of the Commissioner’s Office of MFA in the HKSAR to share her insights on the current international environment, China foreign policies as well as opportunities and challenges arise at the luncheon discussion. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, members including Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Andrew Yao and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guest Mr. Johnny Mok joined the event. Deputy Commissioner Tong Xiaoling briefing guests on the current international environment\

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and invited guest Mr. Johnny Mok met and exchanged views with the delegation during their visit to Hong Kong. The delegation comprised of Parliament members Mrs. Heather Wheeler, Mr. Alun Cairns, Mr. Andrew Gwynne, Mr. Dave Watts and Sir Robert Smith. Meeting with the delegation

The press conference of 2014 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) was held in Hong Kong on 29 May 2014. It was organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and co-organized by Center for City and Competitiveness of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Led by Prof. Ni Pengfei of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the theme of the 2014 Report is “YRD: the emerging global mega economic region”. For Hong Kong, the key suggestion is “promoting research and innovation, developing a knowledge-based economy”. Through strengthening the research and innovation and making it a new driving force for the development of Hong Kong, Hong Kong can alleviate the risks and challenges and release the potential of innovation to further enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness. The press conference was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang where Prof. Ni gave a presentation on the report and further explained the overall competitiveness of Hong Kong. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (right) and Prof. Ni Pengfei presenting the report to Hong Kong media  The top ten cities in the Comprehensive Economic Competitiveness Index in 2013 are Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Taipei, Guangzhou, Beijing, Suzhou, Tianjin, Foshan and Macao. Hong Kong keeps the top position in comprehensive economic competitiveness but the speed of growth is slowing down. The sub-index of overall efficiency competitiveness is ranked third after Taipei and Macao. Hong Kong has a significant advantage in GDP per unit of land, thanks to its dense population and commercial activities, a high degree of agglomeration, streamlined business regulations, a clean government, good supporting facilities and efficient services. However, the sub-index of overall incremental competitiveness is ranked eighteenth, fell by ten places from last year. Hong Kong is suffering from the gradual weakening of the advantages in talent, software and hardware facilities. There is no significant enhancement of the atmosphere of innovation and entrepreneurship. Land shortage-induced high rents hinder the development of small and medium-sized enterprises. Hong Kong is also over-dependent on financial and real estate sectors and lacks stable sectors for growth.  Hong Kong also has a top position in sustainable competitiveness but the sub-index of knowledge-based city and the sub-index of info-city are weakening. Its index in knowledge-based city is ranked fourth after Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen. Hong Kong’s R&D expenditure, in terms of the percentage of GDP, is much lower than the one in Japan, South Korea, Singapore and the Mainland. Hong Kong also lacks effective incentive system for technological innovation, along with the weak atmosphere of innovation and ability of knowledge transfer. All these are the major problems in Hong Kong.  Concluding the press conference, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation commented that “Hong Kong ranks the 1st in both Comprehensive Economic Competitiveness and Sustainable Competitiveness. Hong Kong performs well in many aspects. To maintain our advantage in competitiveness and create a win-win situation, Hong Kong needs long-term plans for policies such as population and land use, should focus on nurturing research and innovation, and must play the role of ‘super connector’ well with its positioning in China in the context of ‘going-out, bringing-in’ policy.”  Before the press conference, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman chaired a luncheon discussion where members of the Foundation and invited guests exchanged and shared their views on the report. Please refer to the PowerPoint presentation of the press conference for highlights of the report.

On 28 May 2014, the Foundation was pleased to have invited Mr. Ronald Chiu, Chairman of Hong Kong News Executives’ Association to share with members and guests his views on the freedom of press and speech in Hong Kong before and after its return to the motherland. The luncheon discussion was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and joined by Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Dominic Pang and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Johnny Mok and Mr. Franklin Lam. Mr. Ronald Chiu (left) sharing his views with guests

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the Semi-final of the 8th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 24 May 2014. After four rounds of fierce competition, Sing Yin Secondary School, CNEC Christian College, Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School, Po Leung Kuk Tang Yuk Tien College, La Salle College and Queen’s College won the tickets to the Final which will be held in July 2013. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was one of the judges.  Over 4000 students from primary and secondary schools participated in this year’s contest. The contest aims to raise the interest of students and the general public in large in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy, and to broaden their horizons. A study tour to Beijing and Guizhou will be organized for the teams entered into the Final.  Fierce competition

The Active Citizen Forum was organised by the Junior Chamber International Hong Kong (JCIHK) and the Foundation was its Gold Sponsor. Focused on education and youth competitiveness, the Forum was successfully held on 5 May 2014, aiming to encourage more young people to care and participate in the social affairs. Speakers from business and education fields including Secretary for Education Mr. Eddie Ng shared their experiences and views with over 700 participants. The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Leung Wai-fung also joined the event. Council Member Mr. Leung Wai-fung (middle) receiving the token of appreciation on behalf of the Foundation

On 30 April 2014, the Foundation hosted a luncheon discussion with JCI HK and AIESEC HK where members of the three parties shared and exchanged views on various issues of common concern. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Ms. Alice Au; and invited guests Mr. Franklin Lam, Mr. Ken Wong and Prof. Albert Ip attended the luncheon. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (6th right) together with Council Members Mr. Leung Wai-fung (4th left), Mr. Thomas Woo (5th left) and Ms. Winnie Ng (4th right) sharing their views at the luncheon

Organised by the US-Asia Institute and in partnership with the Information Services Department of the HKSAR Government, the US Congressional Delegation visited Hong Kong from 23 – 25 April 2014 after their trip to the Mainland China. Congressman Jim Matheson, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and Congressman Billy Long led the delegation. Chaired by the Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for the delegation on 25 April 2014. The luncheon was joined by the Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Peter Lo and Ms. Alice Au; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Mr. Johnny Mok and Dr. David Wong. (Front row, L to R) Dr. Amy Herbener, Congressman Jim Matheson, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and Congressman Billy Long(Back row, L to R) Mr. Adam Carbullido, Dr. Michael Martin, Mr. Johnny Mok, Mr. Peter Lo, Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Alice Au, Dr. David Wong, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Corey Schrodt, Ms. Diana Chou and Dr. Anthony Cordesman

Invited by the HKSAR Government, the delegation visited Hong Kong from 21 – 26 April 2014. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a dinner for the delegation on 24 April 2014. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Member Mr. John Lee, Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang as well as invited guests Mr. Johnny Mok and Mr. Franklin Lam joined the dinner to exchange views with the delegates on the developments of the Mainland China and Hong Kong.

Jointly hosted by the Foundation’s Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng and Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the Foundation was honored to have invited Mr. Zhang Xiaoming, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR (the Liaison Office) to attend the luncheon meeting on 15 April 2014, discussed and exchanged views with members of the Foundation. On behalf of the Foundation, Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng (3rd left) welcoming Mr. Zhang Xiaoming (3rd right) Members joining the luncheon meeting included Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua and Ms. Vivien Chen’s representative Mr. Antony Leung; Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Douglas Woo, Mr. Dominic Pang, Mr. Andrew Yao, Mr. Andrew Yu and Mr. Dario Pong; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. Mr. Cao Erbao, Director-General of Research Department; Mr. Shen Chong, Director-General of Coordination Department and Mr. Liu Chunhua, Deputy Director-General of Department of Law of the Liaison Office also joined the luncheon meeting. (Front row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Liu Chunhua, Mr. Cao Erbao, Dr. Henry Cheng, Mr. Zhang Xiaoming, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Douglas Woo, Dr. Roy Chung and Dr. Raymond Leung(Back row, L to R) Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Dario Pong, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Dominic Pang, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Andrew Yao, Mr. Matthew Lam, Mr. Antony Leung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Shen Chong, Ms. Juliana Lam and Mr. Andrew Yu

Supported by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the awards were presented by MetroBox magazine, aiming to honor the business contribution to the society and promote corporate social responsibility to more companies. The awards presentation ceremony was successfully held on 10 April 2014.

The Foundation hosted a lunch meeting with Dr. Richard Bush during his visit to Hong Kong on 9 April 2014. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Anson Chan and Mr. Andrew Yu; and guests Dr. David Wong, Mr. Franklin Lam and Ms. Sandy Yeung joined the lunch meeting.

On 7 April 2014, the Foundation’s members and invited guests met with representatives from JVP Media Quarter (a technology incubator focusing on telecommunication and media) during their visit to Hong Kong from Israel. Mr. Kobi Rozengarten, General Partner of JVP shared with guests the success of Israel as a high tech powerhouse. The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Kin Yeung and Mr. Dominic Pang; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Mr. Elad Goz, Mrs. Fanny Law and Mr. Charles Ng joined the meeting.

The Honourable John Tsang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, delivered the 2014-2015 Budget Speech in February 2014. On 20 March 2014, the Foundation hosted two tables at the Joint Business Community Luncheon where Mr. Tsang talked to the Hong Kong business community about his thoughts and insights behind the new budget. The Foundation’s Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Sebastian Man, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Douglas Woo and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Ms. Alice Au, Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Prof. Francis Lui, Mr. James Wong, Mr. Stephen Wong, Mrs. Wendy Siu, Mr. John Chan, Ms. Grace Yu, Mr. Johnny Kwan, Mr. Ken Yip and Mr. Kevin Cheung joined the luncheon and exchanged views on the budget. (Sitting, left to right) Ms. Li Xuhua, Prof. Francis Lui, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Prof. Liu Pak-wai and Mr. Kin Yeung(Standing, left to right) Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Johnny Kwan, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Andrew Yu, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. James Wong, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. John Chan, Ms. Grace Yu, Mr. Stephen Wong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Kevin Cheung, Ms. Alice Au, Mr. Douglas Woo and Mr. Ken Yip

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan met with Prof. Brown during his visit in Hong Kong.

At the beginning of each year, the Better Hong Kong Foundation always organizes Spring Speaking Luncheon for the Foundation’s members to greet the Consuls General and chairmen of international chambers of commerce in Hong Kong. This year’s luncheon was successfully held on 27 February 2014. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for over 70 guests. The Foundation was honored to have invited the Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government Mrs. Carrie Lam to give a speech entitled “Public Consultation on the Methods for Selecting the Chief Executive in 2017 and for Forming the Legislative Council in 2016” at the luncheon. The Foundation’s members together with Mrs. Carrie Lam (front row, 5th right) wishing the success of the constitutional development in Hong Kong Participants include:  The Better Hong Kong FoundationTrustees–  Mr. Ronnie Chan              Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd–  Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu   Chairman, Far East Consortium International Ltd Council Members–  Mr. Matthew Lam              Executive Deputy Chairman, Lai Fung Holdings Ltd–  Dr. Choi Lung-wai             President, Goodway Electrical Enterprise Ltd–  Dr. Roy Chung                 Co-founder Non-Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd–  Mr. Thomas Woo              Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd                               –  Ms. Winnie Ng                  Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd–  Mr. Joseph Yu                  Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies–  Mr. Philip Ma                    Deputy Chairman & CEO, The Sincere Co Ltd–  Mr. Sebastian Man            Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd–  Ms. Juliana Lam               Managing Director, AML Group Holdings Ltd–  Mr. Leung Wai-fung          Director, Artemis Digital Ltd–  Mr. Samson Chan             Chairman & CEO, Manley Toys Ltd–  Mr. Frankie Yeung             Senior District Director, American International Assurance Co (Bermuda) Ltd–  Mr. Peter Lo                      Chief Country Officer, Hong Kong, Deutsche Bank–  Mr. Kin Yeung                    Director/Founder, Blanc de Chine–  Mr. Tommy Hui                  Executive Director, Hengan International Group Co Ltd–  Mr. Douglas Woo                Chairman & Managing Director, Wheelock & Co Ltd–  Mr. Dario Pong                   Managing Director, Ferro Resources Ltd–  Ms. Karen Tang                  Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR–  Mr. Tang Rui                      Spokesman & Director-General, Media & PR Department  Consulate General in Hong Kong–  Mr. Craig Cowdrey                      Consul (Political-Economic), Australian Consulate General–  Dr. Claudia Reinprecht                Consul General, Austrian Consulate General–  Mr. Evert Marechal                      Consul General, Consulate General of Belgium–  Mrs. Karen Bell                          Deputy Head of Mission, British Consulate General–  Mr. J Ian Burchett                      Consul General, Consulate General of Canada–  Mr. Mario Ignacio Artaza             Consul-in-Charge, Consulate General of Chile–  Mr. Jaroslav Kanturek                 Consul General, Consulate General of the Czech Republic–  Mr. Haytham Ghobashy              Consul, Consulate General of Egypt–  Mr. Vincent Piket                       Head of Office, European Union–  Ms. Annikki Arponen                  Consul General, Consulate General of Finland–  Ms. Lilas Bernheim                    Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of France–  Mr. Nikolaus Graf Lambsdorff     Consul General, German Consulate General–  Mr. Christodoulos Margaritis       Consul General, Consulate General of Greece–  Mr. Chalief Akbar                      Consul General, Consulate General of Indonesia–  Mr. Sagi Karni                           Consul General, Consulate General of Israel–  Ms. Alessandra Schiavo              Consul General, Consulate General of Italy–  Mr. Tetsuya Ishii                       Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Japan–  Mr. Arman Akhmetov                 Consul, Consulate General of Kazakhstan–  Mr. Cho Yong-chun                    Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea–  Mr. Sergio Aguirre                      Consul, Consulate General of Mexico–  Mr. Wai Lwin Than                     Consul General, Consulate General of Myanmar–  Mr. Wilfred Mohr                       Consul General, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands–  Mr. Mariusz Boguszewski           Vice Consul, Consulate General of Poland–  Mr. Valentin Markov                  Deputy Consul General, Russian Consulate General–  Mr. Jacky Foo                           Consul General, Consulate General of Singapore–  Mr. Juan Manuel Lopez-Nadal     Consul General, Consulate General of Spain–  Mr. Jorgen Halldin                     Consul General, Consulate General of Sweden–  Mrs. Rita Hämmerli-Weschke     Consul General, Swiss Consulate General–  Mr. Aroon Jivasakapimas           Consul General, Royal Thai Consulate General–  Mr. Clifford A. Hart                    Consul General, U.S. Consulate General International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong–  Prof. Richard Petty                    Chairman, Australian Chamber of Commerce–  Brig. Christopher Hammerbeck   Executive Director, British Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. John Witt                            Chairman, Canadian Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Robert Scholten                   Chairman, European Chamber of Commerce–  Mrs. Orianne Chenain                Executive Director, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry–  Mr. Raj Sital                              Chairman, Indian Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Rafael Aharoni                     Chairman, Israeli Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Kim Byum Soo                     Chairman, Korean Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. David Whitwam                    Chairman, New Zealand Chamber of Commerce–  Dr. Derek Anthony                     Chairman, Norwegian Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Vincent Chow                       Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Kristian Odebjer                   Vice Chairman, Swedish Chamber of Commerce–  Ms. Susanne Sahli                     President, Swiss Chamber of Commerce  Hong Kong Chambers of Commerce–  Sir C K Chow                             Chairman, Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce–  Mr. Stanley Lau                         Chairman, Federation of Hong Kong Industries

The Foundation’s Council Members Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. John Lee together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Sverdrup during his visit in Hong Kong.

Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 48th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition was held from 14 December 2013 to 6 January 2014. People were encouraged to express their wishes on quality-of-life and the future of Hong Kong through their photos. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 8 February 2014 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. Gold Award

The Honourable Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, delivered his policy address to the Legislative Council on 15 January 2014. On 23 January 2014, Mr. Leung attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon where he talked to the Hong Kong business community and further elaborated his policy address. The Foundation hosted two tables at the luncheon. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Pansy Ho and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Tommy Hui and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Ms. Alice Kwok, Mr. Poon Sum, Mr. Eric Yeung, Mr. Raymond Chan, Mr. Allen Fung, Mr. Gary Cheung and Mr. John Chan joined the luncheon. (Front row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Poon Sum, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Pansy Ho, Ms. Alice Kwok and Mr. Peter Lo (Back row, L to R) Mr. Raymond Chan, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Eric Yeung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Gary Cheung, Mr. Kin Yeung, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. John Chan, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Tommy Hui, Mr. Allen Fung and Mr. Andrew Yu

Co-organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the public is encouraged to select ten of the HKSAR’s policies it is most concerned with, and which ones it feels are the most influential in the 2013 in the election. It offers the government a reference on the public sentiment over public policies. The election’s result for the Year 2013 was announced on 23 January 2014. Please refer to its official website for more details.

On 21 January 2014, the Foundation held its annual spring luncheon with members and media gathering to celebrate the Year of the Horse with members and to strengthen our communication with media friends. The luncheon was hosted by the Foundation’s Advisory Committee Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng and the media gathering was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan. Members joining the luncheon included: Trustees –  Dr. Henry Cheng              Advisory Council Chairman, BHKF / Chairman, New World Development Co Ltd –  Mr. Ronnie Chan              Executive Committee Chairman, BHKF / Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd –  Mr. Victor Cha                  Deputy Chairman & Managing Director, HKR International Ltd –  Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu   Chairman, Fast East Consortium International Ltd –  Ms. Vivien Chen               Chairman & Managing Director, Nan Fung Development Ltd –  Ms. Li Xuhua                    Rep of Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon / Special Assistant, Chia Tai Group Council Members –  Dr. Choi Lung-wai             President, Goodway Electrical Enterprise Ltd –  Dr. Roy Chung                 Co-founder & Non-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 –  Ms. Winnie Ng                  Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd –  Ms. Diana Chou                Managing Director, Sino Private Aviation (HK) Ltd –  Ms. Juliana Lam               Managing Director, AML Group Holdings Ltd –  Mr. Leung Wai-fung          Director, Artemis Digital Ltd –  Dr. Raymond Leung          Chairman & CEO, TDK China Co Ltd –  Mr. Samson Chan             Chairman & CEO, Manley Toys Ltd –  Mr. Chan Yim-kwong         Regional Director-Agency, AXA China Region Insurance Co Ltd –  Mr. Frankie Yeung            Senior District Director, American International Assurance Co (Bermuda) Ltd –  Mr. Kin Yeung                  Director/Founder, Blanc de Chine –  Mr. Lee Yuen-hong           Chairman, Tsui Wah Holdings Ltd –  Mr. Anson Chan                Chairman & CEO, Bonds Group of Companies –  Mr. Tommy Hui                 Executive Director, Hengan International Group Co Ltd –  Mr. Bryant Lu                   Vice Chairman, Ronald Lu & Partners (Hong Kong) Ltd –  Mr. Dominic Pang             Chairman, Chun Wo Development Holdings Ltd –  Mr. Andrew Yu                  Director, Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium Ltd –  Mr. Dario Pong                 Managing Director, Ferro Resources Ltd –  Ms. Karen Cheung            Executive Assistant to Chairman, Nan Fung China Development Ltd –  Ms. Karen Tang                Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Members of the Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (Front Row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Victor Cha, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Henry Cheng, Ms. Vivien Chen, Ms. Winnie Ng and Ms. Juliana Lam; (Back Row, L to R) Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Dario Pong, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Tommy Hui, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Karen Cheung, Mr. Dominic Pang, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong and Mr. Lee Yuen-hong Over 30 journalists attended the media gathering and enjoyed sharing with the Foundation’s members their good wishes for prosperity in 2013. Members joining the media gathering included Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Council Members Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Leung Yuen-hong and Mr. Anson Chan; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (2nd left) introducing our members to media at the media gathering

Before announcing the 2014 Policy Address, the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying met with members of the Foundation to understand their views and recommendations on the new Policy Address and to exchange views with them on 10 January 2014. At the meeting, members shared their views with Mr. Leung on various issues such as helping low-income working families, increasing land supply, improving shortage of labour supply, facilitating public health insurance policy, developing Lantau Island and high tech industries. Members attending the meeting included Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng; Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Pansy Ho, Ms. Vivien Chen, Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua and Dr. Lee Shau-kee’s representative Mr. Peter Lee; Council Members Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Tommy Hui, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Andrew Yu and Mr. Dario Pong; and invited guest Mr. Vincent Cheung. Meeting with the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying at the Government House

Subsequent to the first delegation to Israel in 2011, the Better Hong Kong Foundation organized another delegation to Israel this year from January 9 to 15. This is jointly organized with Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council (HKYIC). Led by Dr. Roy Chung, Council Member of the Foundation and President Honoris Causa of HKYIC, the delegation met with local government officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Economy, venture capital companies, companies in high-tech and innovation industries, to learn more about the eco-system and business opportunities of innovation and high-tech industries in Israel. Meeting at Ministry of Foreign Affairs List of Delegates The Better Hong Kong Foundation–  Dr. Roy Chung (Leader of the delegation)   Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation   Co-founder and Non-Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd   President Honoris Causa, Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council –  Ms. Karen Tang         Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation –  Mr. Samson Chan   Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation   Chairman & CEO, Manley Toys Ltd –  Ms. Winnie Ng   Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation   Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council–  Mr. Raymond Chan (Deputy Leader of the delegation)   President, Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council   CEO, Jing Mei Industrial Ltd –  Mr. Daniel Cheng (Deputy Leader of the delegation)   Deputy Chairman, Federation of Hong Kong Industries   President, Hong Kong Environmental Industry Association   Managing Director, Dunwell Enviro-Tech (Holdings) Ltd  –  Mr. Bobby Liu   Vice President, Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council   Chief Executive Officer, Milton Holdings International Ltd –  Mr. Sunny Chai   Managing Director, Fook Tin Technologies Ltd  Guests–  Mr. Patrick Chan   Director, Lee Kee Group Ltd  –  Mr. Charles Hui   Executive Director & Financial Director, Central Development Ltd  –  Mr. Chi-ho Ng   Chairman, Suga Int’l Holdings Ltd –  Ms. Grace Yu   Executive Director, Head of Business Development, Ultra High Net Worth APAC UBS AG Organizations visited Tel Aviv Weizmann Institute of Science–  Prof. Daniel Zajfman, President–  Ambassador Amikam Levy–  Ms. Sima Tamir, VIP Visits & Missions, Department of Hospitality & Conferences Luncheon Hosted by Weizmann Institute of Science–  Prof. Mordechai Sheves, Vice President for Technology Transfer  Unistream–  Ms. Iris Raff-Ronen, CEO  Ministry of Economy–  Mr. Abraham Gross, Deputy Chief Scientist, Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS)–  Ms. Merav Tapiero, Program Manager, China – Israel Industrial R&D Framework, Matimop (Branch of OCS)–  Mr. Yossi Smoler, Director of Technological Incubators Program, OCS Van Leer Technological Incubator–  Mr. Oren Gershtein, Former CEO StarTau (Tel Aviv University Entrepreneurship Center)–  Mr. Oren Simanian, Founder & CEO  Hutchison Water–  Mr. Ronen Wofman, CFO & Director  Hutchison Kinrot–  Mr. Roy Wiesner, CEO Manufacturers’ Association of Israel–  Mr. Zvi Oren, President–  Mr. Dan Catarivas, Director of Foreign Trade & International Relations–  Mr. Amiram Shore, Chairman, Foreign Trade & International Relations Division–  Ms. Sima Amir, Director, International Business Development, Division of Foreign Trade & International Relations  Dinner hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Israel–  Ms. Gao YanPing, Chinese Ambassador to Israel–  Mr. Dai Yuming, Counselor, Political Section–  Mr. Zheng Ming, Secondary Secretary, Political Section–  Mr. Hu Ming, Counselor, Economic & Commercial Counsellor’s Office Israel Advanced Technology Industry (IATI)–  Mr. Yoav Chelouche, Managing Partner, Aviv Venture Capital and Co-Chair, IATI  The Israel Export & International Cooperation Institute–  Ms. Sabine Segal, Deputy Director for International Business Affairs  Xsight Systems (Runway management solution)–  Mr. Alon Nitzan, President & CEO–  Mr. David Ofek, Business Leader, Asia Pacific Odis Filtering Ltd–  Mr. Menachem Ghertner, International Business Development Manager  Israel Diamond Institute–  Mr. Eli Avidar, Managing Director and President, Israel-Africa Chamber of Commerce  Pitango Venture Capital–  Mr. Aaron Mankovski, Managing General Partner Jerusalem JVP Media Quarter (Technology Incubator focusing on media)–  Ms. Fiona M. Darmon, VP Investor Relations & Business Development–  Mr. Omri Cherni, Associate–  Mr. Mark Gazit, CEO ThetaRay Mobileye–  Mr. David Oberman, Director, Sales Department  Ministry of Foreign Affairs–  Mr. Amir Weissbrod, Director, Middle East 4 Department, Center for Political Research–  Mr. Asher Yarden–  Mr. Amir Lati Luncheon Hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs–  Mr. Saul Singer, co-author of “Start-Up Nation”–  Mr. Asher Yarden–  Mr. Amir Lati  Yissum (Technology Transfer & IP Company of the Hebrew University)–  Ms. Dana Gavish-Fridman, Director of Marketing  Brainsway Ltd–  Mr. Shmulik Adler, VP of Business Development

On 9 January 2014, the Foundation is pleased to have Mr. Franklin Lam, Founder of HKGolden50 invited to share with our members and guests his research study on future population of Hong Kong at a seminar. Mr. Lam shared his study on how the growth of our future population and respective public policies affecting the development of Hong Kong economy and the opportunities and challenges aroused.  Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the seminar was joined by Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Lau Ming-wai, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Billy Yung and Mr. Andrew Yu; and guests Mr. Ng Yiu-hong, Dr. Li Pang-kwong, Prof. Simon Shen, Dr. Frank Leung, Dr. Fang Zhou, Ms. Yeung Kok-wah, Ms. Angela Yung, Ms. Cathy Hung and Ms. Ran Chen. Mr. Franklin Lam sharing his research study  

On 9 January 2014, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for Prof. Mark Kennedy and eight students from his class during their study tour in Hong Kong. Led by Prof. Kennedy, the study tour learned about effective advocacy and communication techniques throughout Asia, and particularly in Hong Kong. At the luncheon, Prof. Kennedy gave a speech entitled “Rebuilding Confidence in Democracy”. Prof. Mark Kennedy (2nd left) sharing his thoughts on “Rebuilding Confidence in Democracy” Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Mr. Ronnie Chan, the luncheon was joined by Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma and Mr. Leung Wai-fung; and  invited guests Mr. Franklin Lam, Dr. Li Pang-kwong, Prof. Simon Shen and Ms. Ran Chen. Group photo after the luncheon 

The Foundation has been working closely with the Commissioner’s Office on various projects. The Commissioner’s Office hosted members of the Foundation a social gathering at its office on 20 December 2013 to show its gratitude to the Foundation and to strengthen the friendship. The Foundation’s members enjoyed a relaxing evening with colleagues of the Commissioner’s Office. Deputy Commissioners Hong Xiaoyong, Li Yuanming and Jiang Yu jointly hosted a dinner for the group. Members participated in the gathering included Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. John Lee and Mr. Anson Chan; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. Dr. Roy Chung (left) vs Deputy Commissioner Hong Xiaoyong Enjoying an relaxing evening together: (L to R) Mr. John Lee, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Li Yuanming, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Hong Xiaoyong, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Jiang Yu, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Ms. Juliana Lam

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Leung Wai-fung together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Laty during his visit in Hong Kong. (L to R) Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Amir Shlomo Laty, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Roy Chung and Ms. Karen Tang

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Yang Xiuping during her visit to Hong Kong in December 2013. Hosted by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustees Mr. Victor Cha, Ms. Pansy Ho and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Andrew Yu and Mr. Dario Pong joined the luncheon on 12 December 2013. (Front row, L to R) Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ambassador Yang Xiuping, Ms. Pansy Ho and Ms. Li Xuhua(Back row, L to R) Ms. Zuo Wenxing, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Victor Cha, Mr. Dario Pong and Mr. Tang Rui

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan met with Dr. Knapp during his visit in Hong Kong. Dr. Steven Knapp and Mr. Ronnie Chan

Organised by the South China Media Ltd’s CAPITAL Magazine, the CAPITAL Outstanding Green Excellence Awards 2013 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 12 December 2013. The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng was one of the award presenters.

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and invited guest Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen met with Dr. Milke during his visit in Hong Kong on 21 November 2013.

The Foundation hosted a luncheon for Mr. Daniel Ikenson during his visit to Hong Kong on 15 November 2013. Chaired by the Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Andrew Yu and invited guest Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen joined the luncheon and exchanged views with Mr. Ikenson. (R to L) Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Daniel Ikenson and Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen

In an effort to enhance the understanding of China and Hong Kong by American media, since 1996 the Foundation has invited between six to eight 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 organized the third 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. The theme of this year’s program is “New U.S.-China Relationship”. A delegation of six senior U.S. journalists visited Beijing, Nanchang and Hong Kong from 26 October – 6 November 2013 while seven Chinese journalists visited Washington D.C., New York and Seattle in the U.S. during the same period. After their respective study tours, all Chinese and American journalists met in Honolulu to report on their experiences and to exchange opinions on how media coverage of each country can be improved. Through direct dialogue with local authorities and communities in different areas and seeing the developments for themselves, the U.S. journalists gain a better understanding of the current situation and future development of Hong Kong and Mainland China. List of U.S. journalists: Mr. Saeed Ahmed, Supervising News Editor, CNN Mr. Kevin Beesley, Asia Editor, National Public Radio Mr. Joshua Keating, Staff Writer, Slate Magazine Ms. Valerie Volcovici, Correspondent, Reuters Mr. Brian Wingfield, Energy/Trade Reporter, Bloomberg News Mr. Alan Wirzbicki, Editorial Page Writer & Editor, Boston Globe Organizations visited: Beijing Ministry of Commerce Ministry of Foreign Affairs HKSAR Government Office in Beijing China Institute of International Studies China Public Diplomacy Association Baidu, Inc Global Times American Chamber of Commerce in PRC Meeting with Mr. Shen Danyang (3rd right), Spokesman of Ministry of Commerce Nanchang Jiangxi Provincial Foreign Affairs and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office Nanchang High-tech Industrial Development Zone Nanchang Kohler Ltd LatticePower (Jiangxi) Corporation Aixi Lake Everglades Park Rizhao Community, Guling Village, Mt Lushan Lushan Auditorium, Meilu Villa and other scenic spots, Mt Lushan Visit to Nanchang High-tech Industrial Development Zone Hong Kong Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu, Office of Commissioner of the PRC’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR Acting Consul General Tom Cooney, American Consul-General Mr. Jasper Tsang, President of the Legislative Council Department of Justice Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd Hong Kong Monetary Authority Urban Renewal Authority American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Vision 2047 Foundation HKGolden50 Mr. C H Tung (middle), Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR hosting a luncheon for the delegation On behalf of the Foundation, Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (front row, 3rd right) hosting a dinner where members of the Foundation and guests exchanging views with the delegation on various issues List of Chinese journalists  Mr. Zhou Xun, Director, Editorial Office, Guangming Daily Press Group Ms. Feng Chunping, Senior Reporter, China Space News Mr. Duan Wenbin, Senior Editor, Heilongjiang Daily Group Ms. Chen Qian, General Director, Traffic Radio, Hubei Radio & TV Station Mr. Shang Deqi, Director, Culture & Education Department, Gansu Daily Mr. Tang Zhengyu, Reporter, Urban Life Radio, Fujian Media Group Mr. Dai Zhenhua, Chief Reporter, Chuncheng Evening News  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 to understand more about the general views from the U.S. interlocutors on the relationship between China and the U.S.

The Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CCPC), organized the forum on “Economic Transformation and Collaboration between Shanghai and Hong Kong” on 11 October 2013 aimed at further promoting collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the eighth annual forum that was jointly organized by the three organizations. This year’s forum was supported by the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation and Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai. More than 200 experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the forum. The Chairman of Shanghai CCPC Mr. Wu Zhiming, the President of SASS Prof. Wang Zhan together with the Council Member of the Foundation Mr. Matthew Lam officiated the opening ceremony of the forum. Council Member Mr. Matthew Lam gave opening remarks on behalf of the Foundation The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Philip Ma, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Andrew Yao and Mr. Dario Pong; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guest Mr. Bankee Kwan also participated in the forum. On 10 October 2013, a visit to Lingang New City was organised for participants from Hong Kong, visiting Shanghai Electric and Shanghai Maritime Museum. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (4th right) and Council Member Mr. Lee Yuen-hong (3rd left), Mr. John Lee (4th left), Mr. Matthew Lam (2nd right) and Dr. Raymond Leung (1st right) attending the forum Visit to Shanghai Maritime Museum

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Li Jinzhang during his visit to Hong Kong in October 2013. Chaired by the Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon on 8 October 2013. (Front row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Dr. Roy Chung, Ambassador Li Jin Zhang, Mr. Victor Cha and Ms. Diana Chou(Back row, L to R) Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Dr. Raymond Leung and Mr. Joseph Yu

Hengqin New Area is located on Hengqin Island in the south of Zhuhai City, Guangdong Province, connected to Macao by a bridge. In August 2009, the State Council approved the Overall Development Plan of Hengqin, which clarifies the development positioning of Hengqin, i.e. a demonstration area exploring the new mode of cooperation between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao under the policy of “One Country, Two Systems”. On 17 September 2013, the Foundation was pleased to have invited Mr. Niu Jing, Director of Administrative Committee of Hengqin New Area to share with the Foundation’s members and guests the development plan and prospects of Hengqin at the Foundation’s seminar where Mr. Liu Jiangcheng, Deputy Director of Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Bureau of Zhuhai also attended.  Mr. Niu Jing introducing the future development of Hengqin Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the seminar was joined by Trustees Dr. Peter Lam, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua, Dr. S K Lee’s representative Mr. Colin Lam and Ms. Pansy Ho’s representative Mr. Fred Chan; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Billy Yung and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and other guests including Mr. Lawrence Chan, Ms. Cathy Hung, Mr. Peter Shao, Ms. Kiki Liu, Ms. Yingying Qian, Mr. Gabriel Chan, Dr. Chui Say-hoe, Ms. S Y Chui, Mr. Franklin Lam and Dr. Fang Zhou. The seminar was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Mr. Ronnie Chan (right) (L to R) Mr. Niu Jing, Mr. Ronnie Chan and Mr. Liu Jiangcheng  

Supported by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, CAPITAL Entrepreneur Green Enterprise Awards are to recognize enterprises that contribute to the development of environment protection, and to honor corporations who over the years have undertaken this social responsibility as one of their core corporate commitment. On 5 September 2013, Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng attended the prize presentation ceremony as one of the award presenters on behalf of the Foundation.  On behalf the Foundation, Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng presenting the award

The 6 winning teams of the 7th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest with over 40 members started their study tour by visiting Harbin on 9 August 2013. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also joined the study tour. During their stay in Harbin, the group visited a number of famous spots including Jin Dynasty Shangjing History Museum, Sun Island, Central Street, Volga Manor, etc. They were all impressed most by the visit to the Exhibition Hall of Crime Evidence of Japanese Germ Factory in Harbin and the exchange with students from Harbin No 3 High School. Journey started! The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (2nd right), Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Li Yuanming (1st left) thanking the Foreign Affairs Office of Heilongjiang Province for their hospitality On 12 August 2013, the group headed to Beijing. The highlight of the study tour was the visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and met with Mr. Hong Lei, Spokesman and Deputy Director-General of the Information Department at the Blue Hall where press conferences were held. The group was also gratified to learn more about the roles and duties of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs as well as Department of Consular Affairs from their deputy heads. During their stay in Beijing, the group also visited the National Museum, Great Wall, Daoyutai State Guesthouse, International Garden Expo, Lugou Bridge, Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, etc. Visit to the Blue Hall, press conference hall at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs After the study tour, students should be able to have 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 Harbin. On 23 August 2013, a sharing session was held at the Commissioner’s Office where students gave presentations on their thoughts and experiences gained during the study tour. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung also attended.  

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the Final of the 7th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 6 July 2013. The contest aims to raise students’ interest in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was one of the officiating guests of the Final while Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan and Mr. Frankie Yeung attended the event. Nearly 400 audiences consisting of students and teachers from around 50 primary and secondary schools enjoyed the Final and were amazed by the excellent performances of the finalists. After the fierce competition, the championship went to Sing Yin Secondary School which scored 270 totally. Queen’s College and Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College won the Silver awards while Shatin Pui Ying College, CNEC Christian College and Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School won the Bronze awards respectively. Invited by the Foundation, Chairman of Hang Seng Bank Ltd Dr. Raymond Chi’en was one of the judges for the Final and other judges including Deputy Commissioner Hong Xiaoyong, Vice President of China Foreign Affairs University Mr. Zheng Qirong and Vice President of China Institute of International Studies Mr. Guo Xiangang. Commissioner Song Zhe, Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs. Carrie Lam, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of Central People’s Government in the HKSAR Mr. Wang Zhimin, Secretary for Education Mr. Eddie Ng, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Deputy Director-General of the Information Department of the MFA Mr. Hong Lei, Counselor of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs of MFA Ms. Zhou Saixing and representatives of sponsors presented various awards to winners of the secondary and primary school categories as well as design competitions of T-shirt and desktop logo. To celebrate the success of the Contest and express our gratitude to our partnering organizations, the Foundation hosted a celebration dinner after the Final. Hosted by the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung, our Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Mr. Frankie Yeung; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also joined the dinner. A study tour to Beijing and Harbin will be organized for the students, teachers and principals of the winning teams in early August. Results of Secondary School Category: Gold Sing Yin Secondary School Silver Queen’s College   Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College Bronze Shatin Pui Ying College   CNEC Christian College   Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School Best Spokesman Yip Ka-ho (Sing Yin Secondary School) Merits Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College   Ying Wa College South Tuen Mun Government Secondary School   SKH Lam Woo Memorial Secondary School   La Salle College   Liu Po Shan Memorial College   Diocesan Girls’ School   Kwun Tong Maryknoll College   N.T. Heung Yee Kuk Yuen Long District Secondary School   TWGH Lo Kon Ting Memorial College Results of Primary School Category: Champion Ying Wa Primary School 1st runner up St Matthew’s Lutheran School (Sau Mau Ping) 2nd runner up YLPMS Alumni Association Ying Yip Primary School Merits Kowloon City Baptist Church Hay Nien Primary School   Diocesan Boys’ School Primary Division   CCC Heep Woh Primary School   Sau Ming Primary School   HKTA The Yuen Yuen Institute Shek Wai Kok Primary School   Sham Shui Po Government Primary School   SKH Chi Fu Chi Nam Primary School   Christian Alliance S Y Yeh Memorial Primary School   Fung Kai Liu Yun Sum Memorial School   St. Stephen’s Girls’ Primary School (L to R) Mr. Guo Xianggang, Ms. Karen Tang, Commissioner Song Zhe, Mr. Eddie Ng and Mrs. Carrie Lam Nearly 400 audiences attending the Final to enjoy the excellent performance of students Students are trying their best to compete for the championship Panel of Judges: (L to R) Dr. Raymond Chi’en, Mr. Zheng Qirong, Mr. Guo Xiangang and Deputy Commissioner Hong Xiaoyong The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang presenting certificates to gold award winners of the T-Shirt Design and Desktop Logo Design Competitions Group photo of organizers, judges, guests and winning teams Congratulations to the winning team: (L to R, front row) Deputy Commissioner Li Yuanming, Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu, Ms. Karen Tang, Commissioner Song Zhe, Mrs. Carrie Lam, Mr. Wang Zhimin and Mr. Eddie Ng On behalf of the Foundation, Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (4th left, front row) hosting a dinner to celebrate the success of the contest

The Better Hong Kong Foundation completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 10 to 13 June 2013. A press conference was held on 26 June 2013 to brief members of the local media about the principal issues dealt with during their stay in the U.S. Members of the delegation also shared their observations and experiences gained from the trip. This year’s delegation was co-led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd, and Council Member Dr. Roy Chung, Chairman of Federation of Hong Kong Industries and Co-founder & Non-Executive Director of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd. The Foundation’s Trustee Ms. Pansy Ho, Managing Director of Shun Tak Holdings Ltd also participated in our program in New York. Other delegates included Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Director of Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd; Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd; Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies; Ms. Diana Chou, Managing Director of Sino Private Aviation (HK) Ltd; Mr. Sebastian Man, Chairman & CEO of Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd; Ms. Juliana Lam, Managing Director of AML Group Holdings Ltd; Mr. John Lee, Managing Director of Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Mr. Anson Chan, Chairman & CEO, Bonds Group of Companies as well as Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation also invited Mr. Franklin Lam, Founder of HKGolden50 and Member of the Executive Council as the commentator on economic affairs of the delegation. (L to R) Mr. John Lee, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Anson Chan joined the press conference After introducing the delegates to the media, Ms. Karen Tang explained the main purpose of the delegation was to foster a better understanding of the political, economic and social developments in both the United States and Hong Kong. Mr. Ronnie Chan expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Cui Tiankai, Consul General to New York Sun Guoxiang and Deputy Permanent Representative to UN Wang Min for their hospitality to the delegation. Mr. Chan was glad to see that China has been more proactive in reaching out to the local community, from inside the Beltway to Wall Street, which is important in building better understanding and trust between China and the U.S. At meeting with the rating agency, Mr. Chan expressed his worry of another possible global economic crisis as the fundamental problems after the financial crisis have been lingering without much advancement. Mr. Chan also said “Coincide with the Foundation’s visit to the U.S., I am honoured to chair the opening discussion session for the Trade Development Council’s conference in both New York and Los Angeles – Think Asia, Think Hong Kong, which was very successful. The Chief Executive officiated the conference in New York. It was very well attended and the participants were very receptive to the competitive advantages of Hong Kong.”   Dr. Roy Chung was glad to learn that the think tanks generally were very positive in the Sino-US relations after the recent meeting between President Xi Jingpin and President Obama. They were optimistic in the reform and future developments in China, and conveyed that their policy towards Asia did not imply any containment to China. Dr. Chung also said “During our visit, one of the financial institutions has already warned that the economy is at the stage of post-crisis recovery cycle and that there will be tightening financial policy, hence the likely increase in interest rate. It is what we have been experiencing in the past one week.” Dr. Chung continued that “Hong Kong was back to the radar screen of the U.S. and even on the front page of their newspapers as Mr. Edward Snowden was just revealed that he was in HK, on the first day that our delegation arrived.” He said “It might help raise people’s interest towards Hong Kong as Hong Kong was highly regarded by Mr. Snowden as a place with freedom of expression and a place with an independent and reliable legal system.” Ms. Karen Tang thanked the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office for their hard work in soliciting the support of the U.S. authorities in granting visa waiver status to Hong Kong passport holders. “We visited 4 congress representatives and expressed our wish of having the visa waiver status and the benefit to their tourism and to facilitating inward investment and hence improvement in their employment”, Ms. Tang said. “We also had meeting with Clinton’s Global Initiatives (CGI) who is exploring to bring back the CGI Asia to Hong Kong in 2014. We welcome and hope to facilitate more international conferences held in Hong Kong.” On behalf of the Foundation, Ms. Tang thanked Mr. Franklin Lam for his presentation and analysis over Hong Kong’s competitive advantages, both with hard figures and a lot of soft factors at many meetings.    Mr. Franklin Lam shared his thoughts on this trip earlier that the meeting at the Heritage Foundation particularly resonated with him as he concurs with most of its belief in the principles of free enterprise, limited government and individual freedom. When they were updated of how our “small government” managed to achieve fiscal surplus of 2-4% in the past four years while the typical western country was suffering deficits of 6-10% in the global economic malaise, they were quick to appreciate how Hong Kong was managing to achieve “inclusive growth” in the past three years when tourism and inflow of other business opportunities had managed to create jobs that benefitted all segments of society especially the lower-skilled. They shared that other countries told them that they wanted to be “like Hong Kong”. Also, in a number of meetings, the uniqueness of a fair and neutral Hong Kong was highlighted. This is very important for an Asian strategy (e.g. choosing an Asian headquarters) as the region is “radicalizing” with resurgence of nationalism in a number of countries. Most of the groups we visited had a good idea of our financial and economic capabilities from the many “muscle indices” (eg IPO’s etc) in the market. Many were surprised just how good our “heart indices” are compared with the rest of Asia. These show that Hong Kong is a truly compassionate and trustworthy society. Mr. Thomas Woo said the Foundation has been visiting big cities including New York and Washington DC to promote Hong Kong and to explain its latest developments since 2005. The Foundation also organizes and receives high-level overseas delegations from political circles, academic institutions, think tanks, enterprises and research institutes to exchange opinions and position on different social issues, through forums and conferences. Such activities are more effective, comparing to official interaction, in building trust and friendship. He believed the Foundation could play an important role not only in assisting our government to fight for the interests of Hong Kong, eg the Visa Wavier Program of the U.S., but also to promote the image of Hong Kong and China as a whole internationally. Ms. Diana Chou noted a marked difference as our Hong Kong pitch was enhanced by the presentation of Mr. Franklin Lam. His research indicated that Hong Kong is not just a financial and trading hub in Asia, but also a city of culture and art where major international events such as Art Basel Hong Kong congregates. It’s the first time she felt perhaps Hong Kong should stand on its own merit as we become a world class city. The success of Hong Kong reflects how well the “One Country Two Systems” works. She hopes Hong Kong people should be constantly reminded and be proud of our heritage and unique geographical location as the super connector to Asia and gateway to our motherland. Mr. Sebastian Man was gratifying to hear that the international community continued to have a positive view of Hong Kong. Of course, they are all well aware of the issues we face, the politics, the economic challenges, etc. On the politics front, while people do feel it is a healthy debate and a natural process towards democracy, it is important that we get our act together soon. In that context, it is good news to learn that the U.S. is working on visa waiver for Hong Kong. However, it is by no means a certainty and in fact, there are still challenges and we are delighted that we were able to put in our words to the people we met as well.   Ms. Juliana Lam was impressed that there are many passionate people running different U.S. organizations and contributing their lives in order to bridge the understanding of the U.S. and China, bonding the two countries together from all kinds of aspects including culture exchange, political view sharing, etc. They are successful leaders and devote themselves to achieve these goals which echo the mission of the Foundation. Mr. John Lee joined the delegation for the first time and said it has truly been an amazing experience during the four day visit to New York and Washington DC. Furthermore, this trip has been particularly memorable as it also coincided with our Honorable Chief Executive’s visit to New York. During our visit, we met with a number of business associations as well as government officials to share our views of Hong Kong and to promote the unique advantages of Hong Kong to further assess potential opportunities in this vibrant city. As the Chief Executive said in his speech, Hong Kong is “a Madison Avenue of the East and a super-connector in linking U.S. firms to markets in the Mainland of China and across Asia”. Hong Kong indeed has many unique advantages and as a Council Member of the Foundation, he hopes to continue to promote the merits and opportunities in Hong Kong. Ms. Tang expressed her sincere gratitude to the delegates and all organizations visited for their support in making the delegation a success. This regular updates and dialogue with the business community in New York and among interlocutors inside the Beltway is important in enhancing greater mutual understanding. The Foundation will endeavor to organize these kinds of visit to promote better understanding and collaboration.

On 22 June 2013, finalists from Shatin Pui Ying College, Queen’s College, CNEC Christian College, Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College, Sing Yin Secondary School and Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School teams as well as students and teachers of the shortlisted teams in the Semi-final attended the training session held at the Commissioner’s Office. Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu delivered a speech at the event. Expert from the Commissioner’s Office gave a briefing to students on the topic for the simulation session. Student asking questions proactively

The Foundation completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 10 to 13 June 2013. The main purpose of the delegation was to foster a better understanding of the political, economic and social developments in both the United States and Hong Kong. This year’s delegation was co-led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd, and Council Member Dr. Roy Chung, Chairman of Federation of Hong Kong Industries and Co-founder & Non-Executive Director of Techtronic Industries Co Ltd. The Foundation’s Trustee Ms. Pansy Ho, Managing Director of Shun Tak Holdings Ltd also participated in our program in New York. Other delegates included Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Director of Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd; Ms. Winnie Ng, Director of the Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd; Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies; Ms. Diana Chou, Managing Director of Sino Private Aviation (HK) Ltd; Mr. Sebastian Man, Chairman & CEO of Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd; Ms. Juliana Lam, Managing Director of AML Group Holdings Ltd; Mr. John Lee, Managing Director of Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Mr. Anson Chan, Chairman & CEO, Bonds Group of Companies as well as Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation also invited Mr. Franklin Lam, Founder of HKGolden50 and Member of the Executive Council as the commentator on economic affairs of the delegation. The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Commerce); members of the Legislative Branch (Congressmen); think tanks (The Brookings Institution, The Heritage Foundation, National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and the U.S.-Asia Institute); a financial institution (Morgan Stanley); a rating agency (Fitch Ratings); NGOs (Hong Kong Association of New York and Clinton Global Initiative) and a university (George Washington University). The delegation also visited the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Washington DC. During the visit in New York, the delegation participated in “Think Asia Think Hong Kong” conference organized by the Hong Kong Trade and Development Council as well as its Hong Kong Dinner. The delegation was also invited to join the reception hosted by the HKETO New York in honor of the Chief Executive C Y Leung in celebration of its 30th anniversary of establishing its office in New York. After visited Washington DC, seven delegates continued to participate in “Think Asia Think Hong Kong” conference in Los Angeles. They were also invited to the luncheon hosted by the HKETO San Francisco and the opening ceremony and launch reception for “Hong Kong Live” hosted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board respectively. The delegation was honored that the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. (Ambassador Cui Tiankai) and the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York (Ambassador Sun Guoxiang and Deputy Consul General Dong Xiaojun) hosted luncheons to welcome the delegation respectively. The delegation was also received by the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Wang Min) in New York. This regular updates and dialogue with the business community in New York and among interlocutors inside the Beltway is important in enhancing greater mutual understanding. The Foundation will endeavor to organize these kinds of visit to promote better understanding and collaboration. Itinerary New York 10 June 2013 (Monday)  Hong Kong Association of New York Breakfast Meeting with the Honorable C Y Leung, Chief Executive of the HKSAR Morgan Stanley – Mr. Jim Caron, Managing Director, Investment Management – Mr. David Lew, Senior Vice President, Morgan Stanley National Committee on US-China Relations – Mr. Stephen Orlins, President – Ms. Jan Berris, Vice President Luncheon hosted by the US-Asia Institute – Mr. Marlon Young, Chairman of USAI – Mr. Norman Lau-Kee, Trustee of USAI – Mrs. Esther Lau-Kee, Trustee of USAI – Mr. David Lew, Trustee of USAI – Ms. Mary Sue Bissell, Vice President & Executive Director, USAI – Mr. Glenn Lau-Kee, President-Elect, New York State Bar Association Clinton Global Initiative – Mr. Robert Harrison, Chief Executive Officer – Ms. Lisa Rickert, Director of CGI International Reception Hosted by the HKETO in honor of the Honorable C Y Leung, Chief Executive of the HKSAR New York Asian Film Festival Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award Ceremony honoring Mr. Jackie Chan 11 June 2013 (Tuesday) “Think Asia Think Hong Kong” organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council  Luncheon Hosted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York – Ambassador Sun Guoxiang, Consul General – Mr. Dong Xiaojun, Deputy Consul General – Mr. Zhang Minjing, Consul – Ms. Chen Quan, Vice Consul – Dr. Peter Lam, Trustee, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Fitch Ratings – Mr. Douglas Murray, Managing Director, Business & Relationship Management – Mr. Daniel Noonan, Managing Director, Corporate Communications               The Permanent Mission of P.R. China to the United Nations – Ambassador Wang Min, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Hong Kong Dinner Hosted by Hong Kong Trade Development Council  Washington D.C. 12 June 2013 (Wednesday) Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office – Mr. Bassanio So, Director-General – Mr. Kenneth Chan, Deputy Director-General – Mr. Bill Wong, Assistant Director-General  Luncheon Hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A. – Ambassador Cui Tiankai – Mr. Yu Dunhai, First Secretary & Deputy Chief of Political Section – Mr. Wang Qing, First Secretary The Brookings Institution – Mr. Kenneth Lieberthal, Director, John L Thornton China Center Congresswoman Martha Roby (R-AL)  Congressman Spencer Bachus (R-AL)  Asia Society Washington Awards Dinner honoring Mr. Zhang Yesui, Deputy Foreign Minister of People’s Republic of China and Mr. Thomas Donilon, National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama 13 June 2013 (Thursday) Congressman Robert Pittenger (R-NC)  Congressman Jo Bonner (R-AL)  Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL)  U.S. Department of State – Mr. Kin Moy, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs – Mr. Joel Wiegert, Hong Kong Desk Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs Luncheon Hosted by the Heritage Foundation – Dr. Edwin Feulner, Founder of the Foundation and Chairman of Asian Studies Center – Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center – Ambassador Terry Miller, Director, Center for International Trade and Economics (CITE) and the Mark A Kolokotrones Fellow in Economic Freedom – Mr. Anthony Kim, Senior Policy Analyst, Economic Freedom, CITE – Mr. Bryan Riley, Jay Van Andel Senior Policy Analyst in Trade Policy, CITE – Dr. J D Foster, Norman B. Ture Senior Fellow in Economics of Fiscal Policy George Washington University – Dean Michael E. Brown, GWU Elliott School – Dean Doug Guthrie, GWU Business School U.S. Department of Commerce – Mr. Francisco Sanchez, Under Secretary for International Trade – Mr. Alain de Sarran, Deputy Regional Director, Office of International Operations-East Asia Pacific – Mr. Scott Tatlock, Deputy Director, Office of China and Mongolia Los Angeles (7 delegates participated)  14 June 2013 (Friday) Breakfast Meeting Hosted by Bingham McCutchen LLP                                     “Think Asia Think Hong Kong” organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council Luncheon Hosted by the HKETO in honour of the Honorable Gregory So, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR Government  Opening Ceremony & Launch Reception for Hong Kong Live Hosted by Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board At the Hong Kong Association of New York breakfast meeting with the Honorable C Y Leung, Chief Executive of the HKSAR (front row, 3rd left) Meeting with the National Committee on US-China Relations Luncheon hosted Ambassador Sun Guoxiang, Consul General of the PRC in New York (3rd left) Luncheon hosted by Ambassador Cui Tiankai (6th right), Embassy of the PRC in the USA Meeting with Congressman Jo Bonner (R-AL) (middle) Meeting with Mr. Francisco Sanchez, Under Secretary for International Trade

Organized by the Junior Chamber International Hong Kong, celebrities and successful leaders were invited to share with young people how they turned their dreams into reality so that the youngsters could learn from their experiences. The Foundation was one of the supporting organizations. 

From 27 May to 7 June 2013, ten graduate students of the USC Price School of Public Policy participating in the Price China Lab spent two weeks in Hong Kong, meeting with experts and practitioners, doing site visits and working collaboratively on the project. The Lab is designed to provide participants with consulting-type experience, applying classroom knowledge in a real world professional context outside the United States. The focus of this Lab is Hong Kong and the heavily urbanized Pearl River Delta region of China and on six areas namely economic, social services, crime, transportation, housing and environment. On 7 June 2013, the final day of the Lab, the Foundation hosted a luncheon presentation where students showed the documentary on their research and findings to our members and guests who served as their “clients” to comment on the presentation. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Council Members Mr. Sebastian Man and Mr. Tommy Hui together with invited guest Mr. Franklin Lam shared and discussed their views and comments with the students. The Foundation hosted a luncheon presentation for the Lab

On the request of the Foundation’s members, Mr. Franklin Lam, Founder of HKGolden50 and Non-official Member of Executive Council was invited again to give his presentation on “Hong Kong – the Golden 5 Years (2010 – 2014) and the Decline that May Follow…?” on 5 June 2013. Mr. Lam shared his shared his thoughts on the unprecedented development of Hong Kong in the immediate 5 years (2010-2014) of which will define the next 50. The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu; Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Peter Lo, Dr. Jimmy Tang, Mr. Billy Yung and Mr. Dominic Pang; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; invited guests Mr. Johnson Kong, Ms. S Y Tsui, Mr. Chan Ka-kui and Mr. Ng Yiu-hong attended the talk. Mr. Franklin Lam

Organized by the Junior Chamber International Victoria and supported by the Foundation, successful business people from different fields will be invited to share their experiences in promoting their brands through social media, and successful stories of corporations and SMEs on using social media will be showcased. The activity was officially launched on 1 June 2013.

Invited by the HKSAR Government, the delegation visited Hong Kong from 26 May – 1 June 2013. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for the delegation on 30 May 2013. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Peter Lo and Mr. Anson Chan joined the luncheon to exchange views with the delegates on the developments of the Mainland China and Hong Kong. Enjoying the discussions

With the support of the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Mansfield Foundation in cooperation with New York University, the University of Hong Kong and Sun Yat-sen University hosted the Rule of Law Program 2013 conference in Hong Kong and Guangzhou from 28 – 31 May 2013. Participants sought to better understand the international best practices pertaining to the rule of law and economic and trade concerns, and in particular the relation of the rule of law to land use and land reform in contemporary China. On 29 May 2013, the Foundation sponsored an evening reception for the conference participants at the University of Hong Kong. By the invitation of the Foundation, Mr. Daniel Fung, former Solicitor General gave a keynote at the reception.  Rule of Law in Asia Program 2013 Conference at the University of Hong Kong  Mr. Daniel Fung is one of the speakers

On 23 May 2013, over 600 representatives from 20 young people organizations participated in the Youth Housing Forum. Organized by the JCI Hong Kong and sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Forum has invited the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying to speak and have direct communications and in-depth discussion with participants from different age groups on current housing policy. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Council Members Mr. John Lee and Mr. Andrew Yu also joined the forum. On behalf of the Foundation, Council Member Mr. Andrew Yu (1st right) having a group photo with the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying (8th right) and other guests on stage

The press conference of 2013 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) was successfully held in Hong Kong on 20 May 2013. It was organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and co-organized by Center for City and Competitiveness of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Led by Prof. Ni Pengfei of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the theme of this year’s report is “New Standards: Ideal City of Sustainable Competitiveness”. The press conference was chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang where Prof. Ni gave a presentation on the report and further explained the overall competitiveness of Hong Kong. The top ten cities in the Comprehensive Economic Competitiveness Index in 2012 are Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Taipei, Guangzhou, Beijing, Suzhou, Foshan, Tianjin and Macao. Hong Kong keeps the top position in comprehensive economic competitiveness but the speed of growth is slowing down. Hong Kong also has a top position in sustainable competitiveness but is weak in the sub-index of knowledge-based city. Concluding the press conference, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Foundation commented that “Hong Kong is a developed city and the overall performances on various areas are satisfactory. However, the financial crisis is still deepening, and the world economy is facing downturn while the international trade protectionism is arising. Nevertheless, the Asia-pacific region maintains a relatively rapid growth and China becomes the driving force for development. Urbanisation in the Mainland China is fast and with improvements. Hong Kong should assess the environment carefully so as to map out long-term strategies and short-term measures to cope with global changes as well as to seize every opportunity.”  Please refer to the PowerPoint presentation of the press conference for highlights of the report. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (right) and Prof. Ni Pengfei presenting the report to Hong Kong media

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the Semi-final of the 7th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 18 May 2013. After four rounds of fierce competition, Shatin Pui Ying College, Queen’s College, CNEC Christian College, Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College, Sing Yin Secondary School and Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School won the tickets to the Final which will be held in July 2013. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang was one of the judges. The contest aims to raise the interest of students and the general public in large in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy, and to broaden their horizons. A study tour to the Mainland China will be organized for the teams entered into the Final. Results of the Winning Teams in the Semi-final School Scores Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School 570 Queen’s College 500 CNEC Christian College 460 Sing Yin Secondary School 460 Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College 430 Shatin Pui Ying College 420 There is fierce competition

To strengthen communication and enhance friendship, Commissioner of the PRC’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR Mr. Song Zhe hosted a luncheon for members of the Foundation at his office on 13 May 2013. At the luncheon, Commissioner Song shared his analysis on the recent changes and developments of the international environment, and the impact on China and her foreign policy. Participants of the luncheon included the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Dominic Pang and Mr. Andrew Yu; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guest Mr. Franklin Lam. (Front row, L to R) Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Matthew Lam, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. David Chiu, Commissioner Song Zhe, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Judy Yu and Mr. Lee Yuen-hong (Back row, L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Andrew Yu, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Franklin Lam and Mr. Kin Yeung  

To further understand the philosophy and major policy initiatives of the Government, the Foundation invited the Secretary for Justice Mr. Rimsky Yuen to share and exchange views with our members on 9 May 2013. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Mr. Bryant Lu and Ms. Constance Choy; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Mr. Jonathan So, Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Patrick Yeung and Mr. Chan Ka-kui joined the luncheon. Group photo with Mr. Rimsky Yuen

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

The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Dr. Raymond Leung together with the invited guest Mr. Albert Ip met with Prof. Guthrie during his visit in Hong Kong. (L to R) Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Elizabeth Mitchell, Dean Doug Guthrie, Dr. Raymond Leung and Mr. Leung Wai-fung

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

In order to have a better understanding on the economic and cultural developments in Taiwan as well as its investment environment and opportunities, the Better Hong Kong Foundation organized the first delegation to Taiwan from 16 – 19 April 2013, visiting Taipei and Taichung cities. During the trip, the delegation has fruitful meetings with the Mayors of the two cities; Honorary Chairman of Kuomintang Mr. Lien Chan; representatives from commercial, industrial and cultural industries; and experts from local think tanks. It is hoped that further deliberations and collaborations could be enhanced after the visit. The delegation was supported by Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan and Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Hong Kong.  List of Delegates: 1) Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu      Trustee, BHKF / Chairman, Far East Consortium International Ltd 2) Mr. Philip Ma (Leader)     Council Member, BHKF / Deputy Chairman & CEO, The Sincere Co Ltd 3) Mr. John Lee (Deputy Leader)     Council Member, BHKF / Managing Director, Bank of America Merrill Lynch 4) Mr. Matthew Lam      Council Member, BHKF / Executive Deputy Chairman, Lai Fung Holdings Ltd 5) Ms. Winnie Chiu      Council Member, BHKF / President & Executive Director, Dorsett Hospitality International 6) Dr. Choi Lung-wai     Council Member, BHKF / President, Goodway Electrical Enterprise Ltd 7) Mr. Thomas Woo & Mrs. Stella Woo     Council Member, BHKF / Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd 8) Mr. Sebastian Man     Council Member, BHKF / Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd 9) Ms. Juliana Lam     Council Member, BHKF / Managing Director, AML Group Holdings Ltd 10) Mr. Anson Chan       Council Member, BHKF / Chairman & CEO, Bonds Group of Companies 11) Mr. Tommy Hui *        Council Member, BHKF / Executive Director, Hengan International Group Co Ltd 12) Mr. Billy Yung *       Council Member, BHKF / Chairman & Chief Executive, Shell Electric Holdings Ltd 13) Mr. Andrew Yao *        Council Member, BHKF / Chairman, Van Shung Chong Holdings Ltd 14) Mr. Abraham Chung *        Representative of Trustee Mr. Victor Cha / Executive Director, HKR International Ltd 15) Mr. Dario Pang *        Managing Director, Ferro Resources Ltd / Executive Director, Shiu Wing Steel Ltd 16) Ms. Karen Tang        Executive Director, BHKF  *  joined the visit in Taipei city Itinerary Taipei City 16 April 2013 – Chinese National Association of Industry & Commerce, Taiwan – Sanlih E-Television Co Ltd – Dinner hosted by Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan 17 April 2013 – Breakfast meeting hosted by Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan – Xue Xue Institute – Mr. Hau Lung-Bin, Mayor of Taipei City – National Policy Foundation – Dinner hosted by Mr. Lien Chan, Honorary Chairman of Kuomintang Taichung City 18 April 2013 – Visit to "Taichung Insights" – Meeting with Mr. Jason Hu, Mayor of Taichung City – Luncheon hosted by Mr. Tsai Ping-kun, Deputy Major of Taichung City – Director of Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Administration 19 April 2013 Back to Hong Kong Visit to Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan Meeting with Mr. Hau Lung-Bin, Mayor of Taipei City Honorary Chairman of Kuomintang Mr. Lien Chan (R) met and hosted a dinner for the delegation Meeting with Mr. Jason Hu (R), Mayor of Taichung City

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the HKSAR and the Education Bureau of the HKSAR Government, the first round on-line competition of the 7th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 20 and 21 March 2013. On 21 March 2013, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu visited S.K.H. Chi Fu Chi Nam Primary School and witnessed the competition. They encouraged students to pay more attention to international affairs so as to learn and understand more about the diplomatic knowledge and foreign policy of our nation. The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (L) and Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu visiting S.K.H. Chi Fu Chi Nam Primary School

The Honourable John Tsang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, delivered the 2013-2014 Budget Speech on 27 February 2013. On 18 March 2013, the Foundation hosted two tables at the Joint Business Community Luncheon where Mr. Tsang talked to the Hong Kong business community about his thoughts and insights behind the new budget. The Foundation’s Trustees Mr. Peter Lam and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Ma Ching-nam and Mr. Dominic Pang; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Dr. Hu Yifan, Mr. David Lie, Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Ms. Bianca Ma, Mr. Frankie Yick,  Mr. James Siu and Ms. Joanne Lee joined the luncheon and exchanged views on the budget. (Front row, L to R) Dr. Hu Yifan, Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Frankie Yick, Mr. Peter Lam, Prof. Liu Pak-wai and Mr. Peter Lo; (Back row, L to R) Mr. James Siu, Ms. Joanne Lee, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Kin Yeung, Mr. John Lee, Ms. Bianca Ma, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. David Lie and Mr. Dominic Pang

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Mr. John Lee together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Prof. Brown during his visit in Hong Kong.

The 7th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Kick-off Ceremony and Sharing Session       Please refer to the Chinese report. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (2nd right) together with Deputy Commissioner Ms. Jiang Yu (middle), Principal Assistant Secretary Mr. Tony Tang (2nd left) and student representatives officiating the kick-off ceremony

Supported by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the awards were presented by MetroBox magazine, aiming to honor the business contribution to the society and promote corporate social responsibility to more companies. The awards presentation ceremony was successfully held on 28 February 2013.

Co-organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the public is encouraged to select ten of the HKSAR’s policies it is most concerned with, and which ones it feels are the most influential in the 2012 in the election. It offers the government a reference on the public sentiment over public policies. The election’s result for the Year 2012 was announced on 28 February 2013. Please refer to the official website for more details.

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Leung Wai-fung met with Mr. Chen during his visit to Hong Kong. (L to R) Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Chen Xiaodong, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Karen Tang and Mr. Wang Yongjun

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan met with Mr. Yarden during his visit to Hong Kong

At the beginning of each year, the Better Hong Kong Foundation always organizes Spring Speaking Luncheon for the Foundation’s members to greet the Consuls General and chairmen of international chambers of commerce in Hong Kong. This year’s luncheon was successfully held on 20 February 2013. The Foundation’s Advisory Committee Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng, Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Trustee Mr. Victor Cha together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for over 70 guests. The Foundation was deeply honored to have invited the Chief Executive of HKSAR Mr. Leung Chun-ying to speak at the luncheon and sharing his vision on Hong Kong as a competitive hub serving the Mainland market. Participants include: The Better Hong Kong FoundationTrusteesDr. Henry Cheng                   Chairman, New World Development Co LtdMr. Ronnie Chan                   Chairman, Hang Lung Properties LtdMr. Victor Cha                       Deputy Chairman & Managing Director, HKR International Ltd Council MembersMr. Oscar Chow                    Executive Director, Chevalier International Holdings LtdDr. Roy Chung                      Co-founder Non-Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co LtdMr. Eric Leung                      Chief Executive Officer, Tao Heung Group LtdMr. Thomas Woo                  Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) LtdMs. Winnie Ng                       Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co LtdMr. Joseph Yu                       Chairman, Roseville Group of CompaniesMr. Philip Ma                         Deputy Chairman & CEO, The Sincere Co LtdMr. Sebastian Man                Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings LtdMs. Juliana Lam                    Director, AML Group Holdings LtdMr. Leung Wai-fung               Director, Artemis Digital LtdDr. Raymond Leung              Chairman & CEO, TDK China Co LtdMr. Samson Chan                 Chairman & CEO, Manley Toys LtdMr. Chan Yim-kwong             Regional Director-Agency, AXA China Region Insurance Company LtdMr. Frankie Yeung                 Senior District Director, American International Assurance Co (Bermuda) LtdMr. Peter Lo                           Chief Country Officer, Hong Kong, Deutsche BankMr. Lee Yuen-hong                Chairman, Tsui Wah Holdings LtdDr. Jimmy Tang                     Chairman & CEO, Prince Jewellery & Watch CompanyMr. Billy Yung                         Chairman & Chief Executive, Shell Electric Holdings LtdMr. Bryant Lu                         Vice Chairman, Ronald Lu & Partners (Hong Kong) LtdMr. Douglas Woo                   Managing Director, Wharf China Development Ltd Ms. Karen Tang                     Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR Mr. Wang Shi                        Director-General, Policy Research DepartmentMr. Tang Rui                         Spokesman & Director-General, Media & PR Department Consulate General in Hong Kong Mr. Craig Cowdrey                  Consul (Political-Economic), Australian Consulate GeneralMr. Gerhard Alois Maynhardt  Consul General, Austrian Consulate GeneralMs. Caroline Wilson                 Consul General, British Consulate GeneralMr. Paul De Vos                       Acting Consul General, Consulate General of BelgiumMs. Kendal Hembroff               Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner, Consulate General of CanadaMr. Agustin Chaparro               Trade Officer, Consulate General of ChileMr. Jaroslav Kanturek              Consul General, Consulate General of the Czech RepublicMr. Mostafa Mansour               Consul, Consulate General of EgyptMs. Annikki Arponen                Consul General, Consulate General of FinlandMr. Arnaud Barthélémy            Consul General, Consulate General of FranceMr. Werner Lauk                      Consul General, German Consulate GeneralMr. Christodoulos Margaritis    Consul General, Consulate General of GreeceMr. Hari Budiarto                      Acting Consul General, Consulate General of IndonesiaMr. Amikam Levy                     Consul General, Consulate General of IsraelMr. Asher Yarden                     Director of Economics Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, IsraelMs. Alessandra Schiavo          Consul General, Consulate General of ItalyMr. Cho Yong-chun                  Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of KoreaMr. Ibrahim Elsaid Elrawady    Public Relations Officer, Consulate General of KuwaitMr. Sergio Aguirre                    Consul, Consulate General of MexicoMr. Wai Lwin Than                   Consul General, Consulate General of MyanmarMr. Ali Nawaz Malik                 Consul, Consulate General of PakistanMr. Noel M. Servigon               Consul General, Consulate General of PhilippinesMr. Przemyslaw M. Jenke        Consul General, Consulate General of PolandMr. Manuel Carvalho                Consul General, Consulate General of PortugalMr. Juan Manuel Lopez-Nadel  Consul General, Consulate General of SpainMr. Jorgen Halldin                     Consul General, Consulate General of SwedenMr. Mustafa Ünal                      Vice Consul, Consulate General of TurkeyMrs. Nguyen Thi Nha               Consul General, Consulate General of VietnamMr. Vincent Piket                      Head of Office, European UnionMr. Jacky Foo                           Consul General, Singapore Consulate GeneralMrs. Rita Hämmerli-Weschke   Consul General, Swiss Consulate GeneralMr. Matt J. Matthews                Deputy Consul General, U.S. Consulate General International Chamber of Commerce in Hong KongMr. James Sun                         Chairman, American Chamber of CommerceDr. Richard Vuylsteke               President, American Chamber of CommerceDr. Guenter Hoertler                 Vice Chairman, Austrian Chamber of CommerceMr. David Nesbitt                      Executive Director, Canadian Chamber of CommerceMr. Jens-Erik Olsen                  Chairman, European Chamber of CommerceMrs. Orianne Chenain               Executive Director, French Chamber of Commerce and IndustryMr. Wolfgang Ehmann             Executive Director, German Industry and CommerceMr. M. Arunachalam                 Immediate Past Chairman, Indian Chamber of CommerceMr. Hong-woo Shin                  Chairman, Korean Chamber of CommerceMr. David Whitwam                  President, New Zealand Chamber of CommerceDr. Derek Anthony                   Chairman, Norwegian Chamber of CommerceMr. Vincent Chow                    Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of CommerceMr. Edwin Chan                       Director, Spanish Chamber of CommerceMr. Ulf Ohrling                          Chairman, Swedish Chamber of CommerceMs. Susanne Sahli                   President, Swiss Chamber of Commerce The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (middle) together with the Advisory Council Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng (3rd left) and Trustee Mr. Victor Cha (2nd left) welcome the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying (4th left)

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

Please refer to the Chinese report. Members of the Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (Front Row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Winnie Ng, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Dr. Henry Cheng, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Peter Lam, Ms. Diana Chou and Ms. Juliana Lam; (Back Row, L to R) Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Dr. Roy Chung and Mr. Peter Lo

Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 47th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition was held from 15 December 2012 to 7 January 2013. People were encouraged to express their wishes on quality-of-life and the future of Hong Kong through their photos. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 2 February 2013 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. On behalf of the Foundation, Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow (back row, 8th left) attending the prize presentation ceremony and presenting the awards Gold Award

Please refer to the Chinese report. (L to R) Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Jeremy Lau, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Qin Gang, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Andrew Yao, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Lau Chun-to and Mr. Thomas Woo

The Honourable Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, delivered his first policy address to the Legislative Council on 16 January 2013. On 23 January 2013, Mr. Leung attended the Joint Business Community Luncheon where he talked to the Hong Kong business community and further elaborated his policy address. The Foundation hosted two tables at the luncheon. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Trustees Mr. Victor Cha, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Anson Chan and Mr. Billy Yung; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Mr. Chan Ka-kui, Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, Mr. Stephen Wong, Mr. Chris Yeung and Mr. Perry Lam joined the luncheon.   (Front row, L to R) Mr. Victor Cha, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Li Xuhua and Mr. Matthew Lam; (Back row, L to R) Mr. Chris Yeung, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen, Mr. John Lee, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Chan Ka-kui, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Stephen Wong, Mr. Sebastian Man and Mr. Perry Lam

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Council Member Mr. Leung Wai-fung met with Mr. Prekop during his visit in Hong Kong. (L to R) Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Ronnie Chan and Mr. Timo Prekop

Please refer to the Chinese report. (Front row, L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Dr. Roy Chung, Ambassador Chen Yuming, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Bai Xiaomei (Ambassador’s spouse), Ms. Juliana Lam, Ms. Diana Chou and Ms. Li Xuhua; (Back row, L to R) Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Matthew Lam, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Sebastian Man and Mr. Chan Ka-kui

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, Council Member Mr. Leung Wai-fung and invited guest Mr. Albert Ip met with Prof. Guthrie during his visit in Hong Kong.

Under the current unstable and volatile global economic environment, the economic development of China is critical to the world economy. On 4 December 2012, the Foundation was grateful to have Dr. Jun Ma, Managing Director, Chief Economist for Greater China and Head of China/Hong Kong of Deutsche Bank share his insightful analysis on China’s economy. His speaking title is “China’s U-shaped Economic Recovery”. Members of the Foundation as well as the five visiting American journalists who participated in the 2012 China-U.S. Journalists Exchange joined the luncheon presentation. Dr. Ma has been frequently rated at the top in his fields by various investor polls. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Raymond Kwok’s representative Mr. Xavier Wong; Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Leung Wai-fung and Dr. Raymond Leung joined the event. Dr. Jun Ma (Front row, L to R) Ms. Diana Chou, Ms. Karen Tang, Dr. Jun Ma, Mr. Philip Ma and Ms. Janet Cho; (Back row, L to R) Mr. Tom Waseleski, Ms. Juliet Lapidos, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Ms. Autumn Brewington and Mr. Nathan Bomey

In an effort to enhance the understanding of China and Hong Kong by American media, since 1996 the Foundation has invited between six to eight 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 organized the third 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. The theme of this year’s program is “China under New Leadership and Its Relations with the US”. A delegation of five senior U.S. journalists visited Beijing, Yunnan and Hong Kong from 24 November – 5 December 2012 while seven Chinese journalists visited Washington D.C., New York and Chicago in the U.S. during the same period. After their respective study tours, all Chinese and American journalists met in Honolulu to report on their experiences and to exchange opinions on how media coverage of each country can be improved. Through direct dialogue with local authorities and communities in different areas and seeing the developments for themselves, the U.S. journalists gain a better understanding of the current situation and future development of Hong Kong and Mainland China. List of U.S. journalists: Mr. Nathan Bomey, Reporter, Detroit Free Press Ms. Autumn Brewington, Op-ed page Editor, The Washington Post Ms. Janet Cho, Business Reporter, The Plain Dealer Ms. Juliet Lapidos, Staff Editor, The New York Times Mr. Tom Waseleski, Editorial Page Editor, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Organizations visited: Beijing Ministry of Commerce Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of National Defense HKSAR Government Office in Beijing All-China Journalists Association China Institute of International Studies School of Law, Tsinghua University Bolianshe – a platform for bloggers “Included” – a center run by NGO for migrant children Yunnan Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture – Chuxiong City, Zixi Yi Village Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture – Weishan Yi and Muslim Autonomous County, Xizhou County, Zhoucheng Town, Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple Hong Kong The Honourable Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the HKSAR Mr. C H Tung, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR Ambassador Stephen Young, American Consul-General Mr. Jasper Tsang, President of the Legislative Council Central Policy Unit Department of Justice Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd Hong Kong Monetary Authority West Kowloon Cultural District Authority Urban Renewal Authority American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong List of Chinese journalists Mr. Sun Lin, Editor-in-Chief, Farmers’ Daily Mr. Wang Shibin, Deputy Director of the Reporters Department, PLA Daily Mr. Gao Fuyuan, Senior Editor, China Reform Daily Ms. Zhang Zhixin, Senior Editor, Hebei Daily Ms. Li Xuemei, Director of Social News Department, Beijing Daily Mr. Dawa Ciren, Director of Chinese Editorial Department, Tibet Daily Ms. Hu Xiaoli, Principal Anchor, Radio and Television Shanghai 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 to understand more about the general views from the U.S. interlocutors on the relationship between China and the U.S. The Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Gerald Chow (front row, 2nd right) hosting a welcome dinner for the delegation in Beijing Mr. Shen Danyang, Spokesman of Ministry of Commerce receiving the delegation Visit to Ministry of National Defense Visit to Zixi Yi Village Meeting with the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying (3rd right) Mr. C H Tung (middle), Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first former Chief Executive of HKSAR hosted a luncheon for the delegation Journalists from the U.S. and China met at the East-West Center to report on their experiences during the trip

Please refer to the Chinese report. (Front row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms.Jin Qin, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Ms. Diana Chou and Mr. Leung Wai-fung; (Back row, L to R) Ms. Juliana Lam, Dr. Raymond Leung, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. John Lee, Ms. Huo Yingli and Ms. Du Xi

Prof. Niall Ferguson, Laurence A. Tisch Professor of History at Harvard University delivered a keynote address at the Asia Society Hong Kong Fall Gala Dinner on 21 November 2012. The Foundation’s Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Anson Chan; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Mr. Walter Cheung, Ms. Julia Leung (Under Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury), Ms. Cecilia Leung, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Stephen Wong attended the event.

On 21 November 2012, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the HKSAR held the first “Forum on China” with the theme of “State Structure and Decision Making System in China”. Prof. Jiang Haishan, Vice President of the China Executive Leadership Academy in Pudong, was invited to give a comprehensive report on the subject as well as share his views on the significance of the recently concluded 18th CPC Congress. Some one hundred participants attended the forum, including Consuls General from more than 30 countries, representatives of international chambers of commerce and organizations, business leaders of multinational companies and foreign media correspondents in Hong Kong. The Foundation was the supporting organization of the forum. Prof. Jiang Haishan

On 15 November 2012, Dr. Hsu Ta-lin, Founder and Chairman of H&Q Asia Pacific, a prominent technology visionary, gave a talk entitled “Should Hong Kong Develop High-tech Industry?” at a luncheon hosted by the Foundation. Chaired by the Foundation’s Council Member Dr. Raymond Leung, Dr. Hsu shared and exchanged views with the Foundation’s members and invited guests regarding his observations on the prospects of the high-tech industry in Hong Kong. The Foundation’s Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Mr. Billy Yung and Ms. Constance Choy; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guests Ms. Janet Wong (Commissioner for Innovation and Technology), Mr. Ben Wong, Mr. Tony Choi, Prof. Nick Yang and Ambassador Linda Tsao Yang participated in the luncheon discussion. Dr. Hsu Ta-lin (standing) sharing his insights with guests (Front row, L to R) Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Dr. Hsu Ta-lin, Ambassador Linda Tsao Yang and Dr. Raymond Leung; (Back row, L to R) Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Tony Choi, Ms. Constance Choy, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Ms. Winnie Ng and Ms. Karen Tang

On 15 October 2012, Mr. John Tsang, Financial Secretary, attended our luncheon discussion chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan. Members were offered Mr. Tsang’s insights into Hong Kong’s economic development and challenges ahead as well as its role and potential as an international finance center. On the same occasion, the Foundation was also grateful to have the presence of Dr. Margaret Chan, Director-General of World Health Organisation (WHO), during her visit in Hong Kong. Dr. Chan shared her experiences and challenges encountered in the WHO. The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Tommy Hui, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Mr. Jimmy Tang, Mr. Bryant Lu, Mr. Douglas Woo, Ms. Constance Choy and Mr. Andrew Lo; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the luncheon.

The Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, organized the forum on “Innovative Development and City Governance” on 11 October 2012 aimed at further promoting collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the sixth annual forum that was jointly organized by the three organizations. This year’s forum was supported by the Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation and Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai. More than 100 experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the forum. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan was one of the officiating guests at the opening ceremony of the forum. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Victor Cha; Council Members Mr. Matthew Lam, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Bryant Lu and Mr. Andrew Yao; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also participated in the forum. This year, participants from Hong Kong visited the Baosteel Group Corporation and the Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive Co Ltd before the forum. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (2nd left) is one of the officiating guests at the opening ceremony Visit the Baosteel Group Visit Baosteel Group Visit Shanghai Volkswagen Automative Co Ltd

To further understand the philosophy and major policy initiatives of the government under the new leadership, the Foundation invited the Chief Secretary for Administration Mrs. Carrie Lam to share and exchange views with our members on 8 October 2012. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Ms. Winnie Chiu, Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Simon Wong, Mr. John Lee, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Mr. Bryant Lu, Ms. Constance Choy and Mr. Dominic Pang; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and invited guest Mr. Andrew Lo joined the luncheon.

The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Leung Wai-fung met with Mr. Boutziouvis during his visit in Hong Kong.

Led by the US-Asia Institute and supported by the HKSAR Government, the delegation visited Hong Kong on 8 – 11 August 2012. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for the delegation on 10 August 2012. The luncheon was co-hosted by the Asia Society Hong Kong Center. Chaired by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, the Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Ma Ching-nam and Mr. Dominic Pang; and invited guests Mr. Kwok Kwok-chuen and Dr. Hu Yifan also joined the luncheon to exchange views with the delegates on the developments of the Mainland China and Hong Kong. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (middle) hosted the luncheon

Please refer to the Chinese Report. Ms. Judy Yu, the Foundation’s Council Member as well as the sponsor of the Contest wishing the winning teams an enjoyable study tour Mr. Hong Lei, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Deputy Commissioner Jiang Yu receiving the delegation at the Blue Hall, the ministry’s press conference hall Exchange with secondary school students in Beijing Role playing as people in Song and Yuan Dynasty at the Inner Mongolia Museum On behalf of the Foundation, Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (2nd right) joining the sharing session on 22 August

Hosted by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Franklin Lam, Founder of HKGolden50 and Non-official Member of Executive Council joined a luncheon with the Foundation’s members on 2 August 2012. At the luncheon, Mr. Lam gave a presentation on “Hong Kong – the Golden 5 Years (2010 – 2014) and the Decline that May Follow…?” and shared his thoughts on the unprecedented development of Hong Kong in the immediate 5 years (2010-2014) of which will define the next 50. The Foundation’s Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Dr. Choi Lung-wai, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Billy Yung, Mr. Ma Ching-nam, Ms. Constance Choy; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang, and invited guests Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Mr. Ricky Szeto, Dr. Hu Yifan, Ms. Alice Au and Mr. Michael Wong joined the luncheon. Mr. Franklin Lam sharing his thoughts on the unprecedented development of Hong Kong in the immediate 5 years (2010-2014)

Please refer to the Chinese report. Photo with Commissioner Song Zhe (front row, middle) Commissioner Song Zhe sharing his views on China’s foreign policy

The Better Hong Kong Foundation completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 20 to 25 June 2012. On 11 July, a press conference was held to brief members of the local media about the principal issues dealt with during their stay in the U.S. Members of the delegation also shared their observations and experiences gained from the trip. This year’s delegation was led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd, and joined by four Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Philip Ma, Deputy Chairman & CEO of the Sincere Co Ltd; Mr. Sebastian Man, Chairman & CEO of Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd; Ms. Juliana Lam, Director of AML Group Holdings Ltd and Mr. Leung Wai-fung; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation also invited Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Professor of Economics of the Chinese University of Hong Kong as the chief commentator on economic affairs of the delegation. After introducing the delegates to the media, Ms. Karen Tang explained the main purpose of the delegation was not only to foster a better understanding of the political, economic and social developments in both the United States and Hong Kong, but also shared our observations and views with interlocutors in the United States on how Hong Kong business sector looked at the change in the governing philosophy and the business environment in Hong Kong and Mainland China under the new leadership. The potential of Hong Kong as off-shore RMB center was also highlighted. Mr. Ronnie Chan talked about his observations on the latest developments in China and the role of Hong Kong. He pointed out that the new leadership of both Mainland China and Hong Kong will be facing a more difficult situation than their predecessors because of the recent international financial crisis, various demands and higher expectations from the society and its people. However, Mr. Chan has confidence on the effort and determination of the new leadership of Mainland China and Hong Kong to address those issues and to sustain a steady growth of economy. Mr. Ronnie Chan asserted that the new leadership of Mainland China would continue its reform and opening up policy, not because of particular personnel but rather because of the “necessity”. Hong Kong under the one country two systems and the gateway to Mainland China will continue to benefit from the growth and development of our motherland. On the other hand, only a healthy and constructive Sino-U.S. relationship will benefit both countries, especially under the volatile international economy. However, it has never been an easy task, especially when the U.S. economy is facing challenges and the President election in November adds to the uncertainty. On the economic front, Prof. Liu Pak-wai highlighted the economic benefits to the development of Hong Kong into the premier international financial center as the Reminbi becomes an international currency for trading, investment and eventually foreign exchange reserve, a point that is not yet on the radar screen of most of our American host. Ms. Karen Tang observed the people we met showed considerable interest in the newly-elected Chief Executive of HKSAR, Mr. C Y Leung. In general, they all wished Hong Kong well. The interest on the change in leadership in Beijing later this year was strong. Some of them were concerned with the sociopolitical developments in Mainland China and to a lesser extent the slowdown of its economy. Prof. Liu Pak-wai commented that the American hosts in the United States Government, NGOs, think tanks and business were very friendly. He felt that there was a lot of goodwill towards Hong Kong in general and the Better Hong Kong Foundation in particular. The hospitality of the Chinese diplomats was overwhelming. Interaction with participants in our numerous sessions and among members of the delegation was very stimulating. He found the visit an intellectually and culturally enriching experience. Mr. Philip Ma had the impression that Americans enjoyed talking to Hong Kong business people on political and economic developments in Mainland China and Hong Kong; and Hong Kong continued to be seen as the gateway to Mainland China, the world’s second largest economy. Mr. Ma was particularly impressed by the sharing of Ambassador Li Baodong of his works in the United Nation, especially how he handled the complex and complicated international relationship. The strong message that Ms. Juliana Lam got during the trip was that Hong Kong has been undoubtedly a very advantageous metropolis. Owing to the geographical and historical factors, Hong Kong is not only established to enjoy the One Country Two Systems, but also allowed to enjoy the pioneer position as a bridge between Mainland China and other countries which has led Hong Kong to remain competitive in different areas. She hoped that Hong Kong would treasure these advantages and would continue to thrive. Although Mr. Sebastian Man and Mr. Leung Wai-fung were out of town and could not attend the press conference. However, they have written their comments earlier. Mr. Sebastian Man was gratified to see that the overseas community has continued to have positive and favorable views on Hong Kong. The general feeling was that 15 years of the One Country Two Systems by and large has worked. Most people felt that Hong Kong will continue to play a vital role in China’s continuous development, whether in the financial sector or because of its rule of law. People are also positive about Hong Kong’s gradual move towards democracy. In fact, public opinion significantly influenced the outcome in this election of the Chief Executive of HKSAR. Mr. Leung Wai-fung emphasized that gradual milestones and proactive efforts must be maintained to reconcile different understandings and expectations and through constructive communication between Hong Kong, Mainland China and the West. The world is focusing on bigger issues, such as strategic relationship between China and the U.S., the financial crisis in Europe and the U.S. and how they are impacting the world. And yet, the delegation also put forth the strategic role of Hong Kong, and its potential implication to the world’s economic landscape going forward. Ms. Tang expressed her sincere gratitude to the delegates and all organizations visited for their support in making the delegation a success. This regular updates and dialogue with the business community in New York and among interlocutors inside the Beltway is important in enhancing greater mutual understanding. The Foundation will endeavor to organize these kinds of visit to promote better understanding and collaboration.

Please refer to the Chinese report. The competition is fierce Panel of Judges Group photo of organisers, judges, guests and winning teams The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu presenting the bronze award to one of the winning teams

Please refer to the Chinese report. (L to R, Front Row) Dr. Richard Hu, Mr. Kin Yeung, Ms. Elsie Leung, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Mr. Samson Chan; (L to R, Back Row) Mr. Stephen Wong, Ms. Winnie Chiu, Mr. Simon Wong, Mr. Franklin Lam and Ms. Karen Tang

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 20 to 25 June 2012. This year’s delegation was led by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Properties Ltd, and joined by four Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Philip Ma, Deputy Chairman & CEO of the Sincere Co Ltd; Mr. Sebastian Man, Chairman & CEO of Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd; Ms. Juliana Lam, Director of AML Group Holdings Ltd and Mr. Leung Wai-fung; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. The Foundation also invited Prof. Liu Pak-wai, Professor of Economics of the Chinese University of Hong Kong as the chief commentator on economic affairs of the delegation. The main purpose of the delegation was not only to foster a better understanding of the political, economic and social developments in both the United States and Hong Kong, but also shared our observations and views with interlocutors in the United States on how Hong Kong business sector looked at the change in the governing philosophy and the business environment in Hong Kong and Mainland China under the new leadership. The potential of Hong Kong as off-shore RMB center was also highlighted. The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Commerce); members of the Legislative Branch (Congressional staffers and former Congressmen); think tanks (The Brookings Institution,  The Heritage Foundation, National Committee on US-China Relations, Foreign Policy Association and US-Asia Institute); a financial institution (Morgan Stanley); a rating agency (Standard & Poor’s); and a university (George Washington University). The delegation also visited the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington DC. The delegation was invited to luncheons and dinner hosted by the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. (Ambassador Zhang Yesui and Minister Yang Zigang), the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Li Baodong) and the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York (Deputy Consul General Dong Xiaojun). At a luncheon speech titled “The Business and Economic Environment in Hong Kong and Mainland China under the New Leadership”, Mr. Ronnie Chan talked about his observations on the latest developments in China and the role of Hong Kong. He pointed out that the new leadership of both Mainland China and Hong Kong will be facing a more difficult situation than their predecessors because of the recent international financial crisis, various demands and higher expectations from the society and its people. However, Mr. Chan has confidence on the effort and determination of the new leadership of Mainland China and Hong Kong to address those issues and to sustain a steady growth of economy. Mr. Ronnie Chan asserted that the new leadership of Mainland China would continue its reform and opening up policy, not because of particular personnel but rather because of the “necessity”. Hong Kong under the one country two systems and the gateway to Mainland China will continue to benefit from the growth and development of our motherland. On the other hand, only a healthy and constructive Sino-U.S. relationship will benefit both countries, especially under the volatile international economy. However, it has never been an easy task, especially when the U.S. economy is facing challenges and the President election in November adds to the uncertainty. On the economic front, Prof. Liu Pak-wai highlighted the economic benefits to the development of Hong Kong into the premier international financial center as the Reminbi becomes an international currency for trading, investment and eventually foreign exchange reserve, a point that is not yet on the radar screen of most of our American host. Ms. Tang expressed her sincere gratitude to the delegates and all organizations visited for their support in making the delegation a success. This regular updates and dialogue with the business community in New York and among interlocutors inside the Beltway is important in enhancing greater mutual understanding. The Foundation will endeavor to organize these kinds of visit to promote better understanding and collaboration. Itinerary Washington D.C. 19 June 2012 (Tuesday) Dinner Hosted by Minister Yang Zigang, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A 20 June 2012 (Wednesday) Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Mr. Bassanio So, Director-General Mr. Kenneth Chan, Deputy Director-General Brookings Institution Dr. Richard C. Bush, Director, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies Dr. Jeffrey Bader, Whitehead Senior Fellow in International Diplomacy The Heritage Foundation Speaking Luncheon: “A Business Perspective on the Chinese Economy” by Mr. Ronnie Chan and Prof. Liu Pak-wai Dr. Edwin Feulner, President, The Heritage Foundation Mr. Robert Pennington, Trustee, The Heritage Foundation Mr. David Addington, Senior Vice President and Deputy Chief Operating Officer, The Heritage Foundation Ms. Elaine Chao, Distinguished Fellow, The Heritage Foundation Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center, The Heritage Foundation Dr. Derek Scissors, Research Fellow, Asian Studies Center, The Heritage Foundation Mr. J D Foster, Norman D Ture Senior Fellow, The Heritage Foundation Mr. Ervin Yeo, First Secretary, Political Section, Embassy of the Republic of Singapore Mr. Daniel Bob, Senior Fellow, Director for U.S.-Japan Programs, Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA Mr. Bassanio So, Director-General, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Ms. Oriana Mastro, Fellow, Center for a New American Security Mr. Matt Stumpf, Director, Washington Office, Asia Society Mr. Rudy deLeon, Senior Vice President of National Security and International Policy, Center for American Progress Mr. Ali Fisher, Policy Analyst and Manager, China Studies, Center for American Progress Dr. Almarie Munley, Professor, Regent University Mr. Jeremie Waterman, Executive Director, Greater China, Senior Policy Advisor, Asia, U.S. Chamber of Commerce U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress The Hon Don Bonker (Washington) The Hon William Zeliff, Jr (New Hampshire) The Hon Martin Frost (Texas) The Hon William Hudnut III (Indiana) The Hon Baron Hill (Indiana) The Hon John Tanner (Tennessee) Mr. Peter Weichlein, Executive Director U.S. Department of Commerce Mr. Craig Allen, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia Market Access and Compliance Mr. Alain de Sarran, Deputy Regional Director, Office of International Operations-East Asia Pacific Mr. Joshua Wu, International Trade Specialist, Office of the China and Mongolia Dinner Hosted by Mr. Benjamin Wu, President, USAI 21 June 2012 (Thursday) Capitol Hill Breakfast Forum with Key Congressional Advisors Mr. Ben Wu, Mr. Robert Jordan, Mr. Al Reyes, Mr. Ben Fishburne, US-Asia Institute Mr. John Sandy, Chief of Staff, Senator James Risch (R-Idaho) Mr. Hunter Ridgway, Chief of Staff, Rep. John Olver (D-Massachusetts) Mr. George Rogers, Counsel, Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) Mr. Scott Shiller, Legislative Director, Rep. Billy Long (R-Missouri) Ms. Bridgette DeHart, Legislative Counsel, Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-New York; Secretary Congressional Black Caucus) Mr. Warren Tryon, Deputy Staff Director, House Financial Services Committee Dr. Thomas Lum, Congressional Research Service Mr. Wally Hsueh, Staff Director, Senate Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee George Washington University Dean Doug Guthrie, GWU Business School Dean Michael E. Brown, GWU Elliott School Luncheon Hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A Ambassador Zhang Yesui Mr. Zhou Jingxing, Counselor U.S. Department of State Mr. Aubrey Carlson, Director, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs Ms. Amelia Liebhold, Foreign Affairs Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs Mr. Al From, Founder and Former CEO of the Democratic Leadership Council New York 22 June 2012 (Friday) Breakfast Meeting Hosted by Foreign Policy Association Mr. Noel Lateef, President, Foreign Policy Association Mr. James Dougherty, Whitehead Fellow, Foreign Policy Association Mr. Daniel McKevitt, Chief Financial Officer, Foreign Policy Association Mr. Tor Miller, Online Editorial Intern, Foreign Policy Association Mr. Takako Fujiki, Director of Meetings Program, Foreign Policy Association Mr. Walter Bell, Chairman, Swiss Re America Holding Corp. Mr. Edward F Cox, Partner, Patterson, Belknap, Webb & Tyler Mr. Brendan Dougher, NY Metro Region Managing Partner, PwC Mr. Duncan Edwards, President & CEO, Hearst Magazines International Ms. Nina Henderson, Managing Partner, Henderson Advisory Mr. Alex Lari, Chairman, The Claremont Group Mr. Stephen Lari, Principal, The Claremont Group Mr. Thomas Michaud, CEO & President, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. Mr. Reed Phillips III, Managing Partner, DeSilva & Phillips Mr. Hugh Roome, President, Scholastic International Mr. Fred Teng, Chairman, Hong Kong Association of New York Mr. Enzo Viscusi, Senior Advisor, ENI S.p.A Mr. Spiros Voutsinas, President, Atlantic Bank Standard and Poor’s Mr. Paul Coughlin, Executive Managing Director, Global Analytics & Operations Mr. John Piecuch, Director, Communications 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 Ms. Lu Hailin, Spouse of Ambassador Li Baodong Dinner Hosted by the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York Mr. Dong Xiaojun, Deputy Consul General Mr. Zhang Minjing, Consul Mr. Wu Jun, Vice Consul 25 June 2012 (Monday) National Committee on U.S. China Relations Ms. Jan Berris, Vice President Mr. Jonathan Lowet, Director, Leadership Initiatives Mr. Daniel Murphy, Senior Program Officer Ms. Haini Guo, Senior Program Officer Mr. Daniel Rosen, Partner, Rhodium Group The Hong Kong Association of New York Speaking Luncheon: “The Business and Economic Environment in Hong Kong and Mainland China under the New Leadership ” by Mr. Ronnie Chan and Prof. Lui Pak-wai Morgan Stanley Mr. Vincent Reinhart, Managing Director, Chief U.S. Economist Mr. David Lew, Senior Vice President, Morgan Stanley     Luncheon hosted by Ambassador Zhang Yesui (middle) Speaking Luncheon at the Heritage Foundation Meeting with former Congressmen Meeting with representatives of Department of State Luncheon hosted by Ambassador Li Baodong (middle) and Mrs. Li (on his right)

Please refer to the Chinese report. Students paying full attention to the briefing by the expert of foreign affairs

Please refer to the Chinese report. Mr. Norman Chan showing a video on the prospect of Hong Kong as off-shore RMB center Photo with Mr. Norman Chan (front row, middle)

Please refe to the Chinese report. The Foundation’s Council Member Ms. Winnie Ng (4th left) is one of the judges

The Press Conference of 2012 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) was successfully held in Hong Kong on 23 May 2012. It was 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 2012 China Urban Competitiveness Report” project was led by Prof. Pengfei Ni in the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. In addition to the presentation by Prof. Ni at the press conference, the Foundation was also pleased to have invited Prof. Jeff Lin, Professor of Economics and Associate Dean of Institute for Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences of the National Taiwan University; Prof. Liu Chengkun, Associate Professor of Faculty of Management & Administration of the Macau University of Science & Technology; and Prof. Shen Jianfa, Hong Kong Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong to share their views and comments on the report. The top ten cities in 2011 are Hong Kong, Taipei, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Qingdao and Changsha. Comparing with the ranking result in 2010, the overall gap is narrowed with great changes in the ranking of some cities. Qingdao becomes one of the top ten cities, replacing Dalian. Taipei rises to no. 2. Beijing overtakes Shanghai which becomes no. 4. Concluding the press conference, Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation commented that “The competitive edges, such as strong global control functions and services sectors, will enable Hong Kong to occupy the higher end of the value chain, fortifying her role as gateway connecting China and Asia with the world. It should be recognized that all these competitive edges will, in turn, fortify the status of world city.” (L to R) Prof. Shen Jianfa, Prof. Ni Pengfei, Ms. Karen Tang, Prof. Jeff Lin and Prof. Liu Chengkun

Please refer to the Chinese report. (L to R) Mr. Peter Lam, Dr. Henry Cheng, Mr. C Y Leung, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. Victor Cha and Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu Mr. C Y Leung has a fruitful discussion with the Foundation’s members

Please refer to the Chinese report.

Please refer to the Chinese version.

Please refer to the Chinese announcement.

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Council Member Mr. Albert Ip met with Dr. Lieberthal during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Honourable John Tsang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, delivered the 2012-2013 Budget Speech on 1 February 2012. On 22 February 2012, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Albert Ip and Ms. Juliana Lam; Ms. Li Xuhua, representative of Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon; and guests Mr. K C Kwok and Mr. Chris Yeung joined the luncheon and exchange views on the budget.  At the luncheon, Mr. Tsang elaborated this year’s budget to the business community.

Please refer to the Chinese report. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Leung Wai-fung delivering an opening remark on behalf of the Foundation (L to R) Mr. Zhang Jianmin, Mr. Hong Xiaoyong, Mrs. Michelle Wong, Mr. Lu Xinhua, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Li Yuanmin, Mr. Li Jiyi and student representatives officiating the kick-off ceremony

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 17 February 2012. The Foundation’s Advisory Committee Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng and Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for over 60 guests. This year, the Foundation is honoured to have invited Mr. C Y Leung, Candidate for Chief Executive of Hong Kong in 2012 to speak at the event. Participants include: The Better Hong Kong Foundation Trustees Dr. Henry Cheng               Managing Director, New World Development Co Ltd Mr. Ronnie Chan               Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd Mr. W. F. Leung               Group Managing Director, Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Ltd Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo               Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) 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 Manufacturing Co Ltd Mr. Albert Ip                       Independent Non-Executive Director, Eagle Asset Management (CP) Ltd Mr. Philip Ma                      Group Managing Director, The Sincere Co Ltd Ms. Juliana Lam                  Director, AML Group Holdings Ltd Ms. Karen Tang                   Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Speaker and Staff from his campaign office Mr. C Y Leung                   Candidate for Chief Executive of Hong Kong in 2012 Mrs. Fanny Law                Director, Office of CY Leung Campaign Mr. K W Mak                      Deputy Director, Office of CY Leung Campaign Mr. Laurence Ho              Deputy Director, Office of CY Leung Campaign Mr. Raymond Tang          Compliance Advisor, Office of CY Leung Campaign Ms. Cathy Hung               Senior Manager, Media Relations, Office of CY Leung Campaign Mr. Allen Fung                  Public Service Assistant to CY Leung, Office of CY Leung Campaign Mr. David Lui                   Office of CY Leung Campaign Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR Mr. Wang Shi                    Director-General, Policy Research Department Consulate General in Hong Kong Mr. Eduardo A. Leone               Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Argentina Mr. James Nachipo                   Deputy Consul General, Australian Consulate General Mr. Evert Marechal                     Consul General, Consulate General of Belgium Mr. Paul Lynch                            Deputy Consul General, British Consulate General Mr. Luy David                              Consul General, Consulate General of Cambodia Mr. Jose Antonio Mutis Perdomo  Consul General, Consulate General of Colombia Mr. Jaroslav Kanturek                Consul General, Consulate General of the Czech Republic Mr Torben A. Gettermann         Consul General, Consulate General of Denmark Mr. Mohamed Fahmy                 Consul General, Consulate General of Egypt Mr. Asad Beg                                Deputy Head of Office, European Union Ms. Annikki Arponen                   Consul General, Consulate General of Finland Mrs. Ulrike Erdmann                   Vice Consul (Economic Affairs), Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany Mr. Hari Budiarto                          Consul / Head of Chancery, Consulate General of Indonesia Mr. M A Tabatabaei Hasan         Consul General, Consulate General of Iran Mr. Amikam Levy                           Consul General, Consulate General of Israel Mr. Daisuke Matsunaga               Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Japan Ms. Alicia Buenrostro Massieu   Consul General, Consulate General of Mexico Mr. Robert Schuddeboom           Consul General, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Mr. Noel Eugene Eusebio M. Servigon      Consul General, Consulate General of Philippines Mr. Manuel Carvalho                    Consul General, Consulate General of Portugal Mr. Juan Manuel Lopez-Nadal   Consul General, Consulate General of Spain Mr. Jorgen Halldin                        Consul General, Consulate General of Sweden Mrs. Rita Hammerli-Weschke     Consul General, Consulate General of Switzerland Mr. Chakri Srichawana               Consul General, Royal Thai Consulate General Mr. Stephen Young                    Consul General, Consulate General of US International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Mr. James Sun                            Chairman, American Chamber of Commerce Dr. Richard Vuylsteke                President, American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Andrew Work                         Executive Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen                    Honorary Member, Danish Chamber of Commerce Ms. Talida Goean                        Director, European Chamber of Commerce Mr. Wolfgang Ehmann               Executive Director, German Industry and Commerce Mr. V Santha Ram                      Executive Director, Indian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Rafael Aharoni                     Chairman, Israeli Chamber of Commerce Mr. Manuele Bosetti                   General Manager, Italian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Shin Hong Woo                   Chairman, Korean Chamber of Commerce Mr. David Whitwam                   Chairman, New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Dr. Derek Anthony                     Chairman, Norwegian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Vincent Chow                      Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of Commerce Mr. Edwin Chan                         Director of Spanish Chamber of Commerce Mr. Ulf Ohrling                             Chairman, Swedish Chamber of Commerce Ms. Susanne Sahli                     President, Swiss Chamber of Commerce   (L to R) Ms. Juliana Lam, Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Mr. C Y Leung, Dr. Henry Cheng, Mr. W F Leung, Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Judy Yu and Mr. Tony Choi Mr. C Y Leung, Candidate for Chief Executive of Hong Kong in 2012 to speak at the event

Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 46th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition was successfully organised. People were encouraged to express their wishes about quality of life and the future of Hong Kong through their photos. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 11 February 2012 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. On behalf of the Foundation, Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow (back row, 3rd right) attending the prize presentation ceremony and presenting the awards

Last year, the Better Hong Kong Foundation sponsored Prof. Joseph Chan, Professor of Journalism and Communication, School of Journalism and Communication of Chinese University of Hong Kong; Mr. C K Lau, Principal Lecturer, Department of Journalism of Hong Kong Baptist University and Former Editor-in-Chief of South China Morning Post; and Prof. Lee Chin-chuan, Chair Professor and Head, Department of Media and Communication of City University of Hong Kong to participate in the conference held in October in Beirut. On 7 February 2012, the Foundation organized a luncheon sharing session where the three distinguished academia shared with our Foundation members their experiences and insights gained from the conference.

Co-organised by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, the public was encouraged to select 10 of the most concerned and influential policies of the HKSAR in 2011 in the election. The result of the election was announced on 6 February 2012.  For details of the election, please visit its official website.

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan met with Ambassador Kahanoff during his visit in Hong Kong.

Please refer to the Chinese report. Members of the Better Hong Kong Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (front row, L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Henry Cheng, Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Juliana Lam and Ms. Diana Chou; (back row, L to R)Mr. Eric Leung, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Philip Ma

The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Albert Ip met with Prof. Kumar during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Albert Ip met with Ms. McClure during her visit in Hong Kong.

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Liu Jianchao during his visit to Hong Kong in December 2011. Hosted by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua and Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Albert Ip; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon on 9 December 2011. Ambassador Liu Jianchao (4th left)

Dean Mike Brown of the Elliott School of International Affairs and Dean Doug Guthrie of the Business School of George Washington University visited Hong Kong in December 2011. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a luncheon for the two Deans who shared their views on US-China relations. Hosted by the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. David Fong, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Sebastian Man joined the luncheon on 6 December 2011. Exchange of views with the two Deans

The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man and Ms. Juliana Lam; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Li during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Ambassador Liu Xiaoming during his visit to Hong Kong in November 2011. Hosted by the Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Mr. W F Leung, Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi and Mr. Philip Ma; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon on 22 November 2011. Ambassador Liu Xiaoming (5th left)

The Foundation has hosted a luncheon for Dr. Derek Scissors during his visit to Hong Kong in November 2011. The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Sebastian Man and Ms. Juliana Lam, Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang as well as invited guests Ms. Chen Wangxia and Mr. K C Kwok joined the luncheon on 16 November 2011. Dr. Derek Scissor (middle)

The Foundation has hosted a dinner for Ambassador Zhang Junsai during his visit to Hong Kong in November 2011. Chaired by the Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu and Mr. Albert Ip joined the dinner on 16 November 2011. Ambassador Zhang Junsai (3rd left)

The Better Hong Kong Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, organized the forum on “The 12th Five-Year Plan and Development of Hong Kong and Shanghai in 2015” on 15 November 2011 in Shanghai, to further promote collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the fifth forum that is jointly organized every year by the three organizations. It was supported by the Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation. Nearly 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 was one of the officiating guests at the opening ceremony of the forum. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (left) delivering the opening address

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and Ming Pao Weekly, the Heart of Gold Awards honors Hong Kong artists that have made contributions to sustainable development in Hong Kong. This year’s award went to Ms. Denise Ho Wan-see. On behalf of the Foundation, Council Member Dr. Roy Chung and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (right) presenting this year’s Heart of Gold Award to Ms. Denise Ho

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

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 2 November 2011, the Foundation’s Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon’s representative Ms. Li Xuhua; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Sebastian Man and Ms. Juliana Lam; and invited guests Prof. Stephen Cheung, Mr. K C Kwok and Mr. Jonathan So joined the luncheon. (L to R, front row) Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Juliana Lam, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Prof. Stephen Cheung and Mr. Joseph Yu; (L to R, back row) Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. K C Kwok, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Thomas Woo and Mr. Jonathan So

Jointly organized by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) and with the support of the Consulate General of Israel in Hong Kong, a delegation to Israel was held from 30 October to 5 November 2011. Led by Dr. Roy Chung, Council Member of the Foundation and Chairman of FHKI, the delegation met with local government officials and companies in high-tech industries to learn more about investment opportunities in Israel. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan joined the first day meeting with the officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. List of delegates: Dr. Roy Chung (Leader) Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation / Chairman, Federation of Hong Kong Industries / Co-founder & Non-Executive Director, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd   Mr. Jacky Cheung Chairman, Shinhint Acoustic Link Holdings Ltd   Mr. Arthur Lee Chairman, Hong Kong X’tals Ltd   Mr. C S Ng Chairman & CEO, Computer And Technologies Holdings Ltd   Dr. Cheung Nim Kwan CEO, Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Co Ltd   Mr. Horris Leung Business Development Director, TDK China Co Ltd   Mr. Richard Chan Senior Manager (Capital Works), Innovation and Technology Commission Organizations Visited: Ministry of Foreign Affairs National Economic Council, Office of the Prime Minister Israel-Asia Chamber of Commerce Israel Association of Electronics &Software Industries Israel Diamond Institute Israeli Community of Designers Manufacturers Association of Israel Hebrew University Weismann Institute of Science “Van Leer” technological incubator Visitor Center of “Better Place” (Electric Car) DLD Tel-Aviv Festival The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan (1st right) joining the delegation led by Council Member Dr. Roy Chung (3rd right) to visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs On behalf of the delegation, Mr. Ronnie Chan (right) and Dr. Roy Chung (left) thanking Ambassador Irit Ben-Abba for hosting the luncheon to the delegation

Hosted by the American University of Beirut, the 16th Annual Conference of the Arab-U.S. Association of Communication Educators (AUSACE) was held in Beirut from 28 – 31 October 2011. Sponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation, a group of three distinguished academia in journalism from Hong Kong participated in and delivered presentations in the conference. The conference theme tackled two current, pressing, and interdependent concepts: digital literacy and media literacy, and their evolutionary and revolutionary roles in contemporary media education, media practices, and media policies. List of delegates from Hong Kong: Prof. Joseph Chan, Professor of Journalism and Communication, School of Journalism and Communication, Chinese University of Hong Kong Mr. C K Lau, Principal Lecturer, Department of Journalism, Hong Kong Baptist University and Former Editor-in-Chief, South China Morning Post Prof. Lee Chin-chuan, Chair Professor and Head, Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong (L to R) Prof. Lee Chin-chuan, Mr. C K Lau and Prof. Joseph Chan

The Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu and Ms. Juliana Lam met with Prof. Chang during his visit in Hong Kong.

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 Better Hong Kong 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 organized the second 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. A delegation of 7 senior U.S. journalists visited Ningbo, Beijing and Hong Kong from 17 – 29 September 2011 while 7 Chinese journalists visited San Francisco, New York and Washington D.C. in the U.S during the same period. On 23 September 2011, all Chinese and American journalists met in the ACJA to report on their experiences and to exchange opinions on how media coverage of each country can be improved. On 28 September 2011, a conference was held at the Chinese University of Hong Kong where local academia and media professionals exchanged views with the U.S. journalists. 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. List of U.S. Journalists: Mr. Robert Ballenger, Swing Editor/Producer, National Public Radio Ms. Patricia Hill, Chief Economic Correspondent, Washington Times Mr. Joe Schatz, Senior Writer, Congressional Quarterly Mr. Kopin Tan, Senior Editor, Barron’s Magazine Mr. David Whiting, Page One Columnist, The Orange County Register Mrs. Roya Wolverson, Senior Writer, Time Magazine Ms. Holly Yeager, Middle East and Asia Editor, The Washington Post Organizations Visited: Ningbo Ningbo Municipal Development & Reform Commission Ningbo Free Trade Zone Ningbo Port Geely Automobile Ningbo Fotile Kitchen Ware Co Ltd Taiji Environmental Protection Equipment Co Ltd Veritas Tech (Ningbo) Co Ltd 81890 Service Center for Public Ningbo Museum Huamaotang Painting and Calligraphy Gallery Zilinfang Art Gallery Beijing Ministry of Commerce Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Health Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security HKSAR Government Office in Beijing All-China Journalists Association China Institute of International Studies SINA.com Hong Kong Mr. Lu Xinhua, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong Ambassador Stephen Young, American Consul-General Mr. Jasper Tsang, President of the Legislative Council Executive Council of HKSAR: Convenor Mr. C Y Leung and members including Mrs. Laura Cha, Prof. Anthony Cheung and Mr. V-Nee Yeh Central Policy Unit Department of Justice Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd Hong Kong Monetary Authority American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Symposium 2011: Living with and in a Giant Nation: A Dialogue with American Journalists on Post-handover Hong Kong at the Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong Air Tour by the Government Flying Services Cultural Walk in Central District List of Chinese Journalists Mr. Cao Huanrong, Senior Reporter/Director, News Coordination Department, People’s Daily Mr. Chen Zhonghua, Reporter, Dazhong Daily Ms. Wang Haiyong, Anchor, Qinghai Radio Mr. Xu Changan, Reporter/Chief, Tibet Bureau, China News Service Mr. Yu Jiayou, Reporter, Zhejiang Daily Press Group Mr. Zeng Qi, Editor/Deputy Director, Chinese Language Department, www.china.com.cn Ms. Zheng Xuejun, Edior/Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Wenzhou Evening 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 Mr. Lu Kang (middle), Deputy Director General, Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meeting with Ministry of Health Dinner hosted by Mr. Hong Lei, Spokesman and Deputy Director-General of the Information Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Norman Chan, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority hosted a luncheon for the delegation Mr. Jasper Tsang, President of the Legislative Council receiving the delegation at the new LegCo Building Luncheon hosted by Mr. C Y Leung, Convenor of the Executive Council Jointly organized with CUHK’s School of Journalism and Communication, a conference was held at Cho Yiu Conference Hall at the university campus as a round-up of the delegation

A Members of Congress delegation from the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) visited the Mainland China and Hong Kong from 27 August – 4 September 2011. The Better Hong Kong Foundation sponsored the delegation to visit Hong Kong from 1 – 3 September. Congresswoman Judy Chu, Congressman Michael Honda and Congressman Eni F H Faleomaevaga led the delegation which was organsied by the U.S.-Asia Institute. The primary focus of the delegation was to foster economic development opportunities between the U.S. and China, and to promote U.S. exports. As the host in Hong Kong, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang accompanied the delegation during their stay in Hong Kong. On 2 September 2011, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou and Mr. Sebastian Man; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang hosted a luncheon for the delegation and exchanged views with the delegates on developments in Hong Kong and the Mainland China. List of delegates: The Honorable Dr. Judy Chu (Leader) Chairman, CAPAC   The Honorable Michael “Mike” Honda Chairman Emeritus, CAPAC   The Honorable Eni F H Faleomaevaga Member, CAPAC and Ranking Member, House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and Environment   Ms. Amelia Wang Chief of Staff, Congresswoman Judy Chu   Mr. Mark Nakamoto Legislative Assistant, Congressman Mike Honda   Mr. Solomona Aeolua Chief of Staff, Congressman Eni F H Faleomaevaga   Mr. Gene Kim Executive Director, CAPAC   Dr. Thomas Lum Specialist in Asian Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service   Mr. Norman Lau Kee Founding Trustee and Chairman Emeritus, The U.S.-Asia Institute Organizations Visited in Hong Kong: Commerce and Economic Development Bureau Hong Kong Trade Development Council Hongkong International Terminals Dinner hosted by the China-U.S. Exchange Foundation with Mr. C H Tung, Former Chief Executive of Hong Kong A fruitful discussion between delegates and members of the Foundation Meeting with Commerce and Economic Development Bureau Ms. Margaret Fong (right), Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, introducing the role and function of the Council to Congresswoman Judy Chu Visit to Hongkong International Terminals

The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Albert Ip met with Mr. Ovechko during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Foundation’s Council Member Mr. Sebastian Man and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Hayashi during his visit in Hong Kong.

The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Gasparic during his visit in Hong Kong. (L to R) Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Vladimir Gasparic and Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu

The Better Hong Kong Foundation was very honoured to have invited Ms. Fu Ying, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the PRC to address us at an evening presentation entitled “China’s Peaceful Development and the International Environment – China’s Relations with the West and the Role of Hong Kong in the Post Crisis Era” on 11 July 2011 at the Dynasty Club. The event co-organised was the Asia Society Hong Kong Center and the media partner was Ming Pao Daily News. Nearly 200 people from various sectors of the Hong Kong society and representatives of consular and representative offices of foreign countries and international organizations in Hong Kong joined the dinner presentation. Dr. Henry Cheng, Advisory Council Chairman of the Better Hong Kong Foundation gave a welcome remark on the occasion. The Foundation’s Trustees Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Mr. W F Leung; Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Judy Yu, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou and Ms. Juliana Lam; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also participated in the event. In her speech, Ms. Fu Ying acknowledged Hong Kong’s success, prosperity and development since its return to China 14 years ago. She shared several observations on economic recovery and development of European countries in the aftermath of the financial crisis, cooperation opportunities and difficulties in China’s relationship with the West and the role of Hong Kong. She said that the worst moment of the financial crisis is over. Germany is leading Europe in steady recovery and countries such as Ireland are on the way up. But generally speaking, many countries in the developed world are suffering from low growth rate and high unemployment. Emerging economies are confronting with mounting inflationary pressure and inflation has spread to developed countries, affecting consumption there. In the face of severe challenges and public pressure, some countries are actively promoting reforms to get out of the troubles. China is observing and pondering these issues. She said that the international community, especially European countries, is having high expectations on cooperation with China. During Premier Wen Jiabao’s recent visit to Europe, China and relevant countries signed dozens of business agreements worth over 20 billion dollars. Agreements were also reached on strengthening cooperation in the fields of SMEs, people-to-people exchanges, innovation and education. China and Europe look forward to go beyond the relationship of buyer and seller. Both approach bilateral cooperation from a strategic perspective, seeking converging points between China’s 12th Five Year Program and the Europe 2020 strategy. We aim to promote common prosperity through stronger cooperation. She also said that China’s relationship with Europe and West at large is not without problems though. “China’s human rights issue” for example, is like a tall hat that is forced upon China. In spite of China’s human rights improvements over the past decades, the interest is shifted from the rights of the Chinese people to a narrower content, namely, the right of a few people to subvert China’s political system. Those who argue against China seem to be more interested in this than in the advance of the rights and interests of the vast majority of the Chinese people. That’s one of the reasons why it’s difficult to get ideas across at human rights dialogues. China’s current path of development is the result of many trials over a long historical period and will be followed through. There are many examples of China’s active promotion of democratic progress, which aims at extensive participation and representation of the people in the decision making. China still has a long way to go. It is willing to discuss human rights with Western countries, but it has to be built on the basis of mutual respect, equality and respect for fact. Ms. Fu also mentioned the West’s concern over where China is heading. Some economic issues are often politicized. This is, in fact, unnecessary. We are living in a fast-changing, globalized and highly interdependent world. As long as we can work together with sufficient patience, it is possible for us to grow together and solve problems together. She disagreed with the view that the power of the world is shifting from the West to the East. Instead, there is a diffusion of capital, technology, resources and market from the West to a wider world, especially developing countries. If only one billion or so people of the OECD countries were enjoying modern life as a result of industrialization, now 3 billion or even more are joining in.  When discussing “Shi”, or the main trend of the world, she says that Deng Xiaoping made a judgment in the early 1980s that the main trend of the world was peace and development. In the 30 years since, China has stayed committed to this trend and spares no effort to promote national development and international partnerships. Last year when visiting France, President Hu Jintao said we should work together to make the 21st century one of peace, cooperation and development. This is a bold idea. If we could make it, it would become the first in modern world history. The vision itself speaks volume about the orientation of China in global affairs. China will not waiver, will not tire and will not Zheteng (flip-flop) in its pursuit of peace, development and cooperation. We also hope the West can take China as an equal partner, strengthen our mutual trust and work whole-heartedly with China in cooperation. She said that Hong Kong has always been a bridge between China and the world. In the 14 years since its return, Hong Kong has accomplished political stability and economic prosperity with the full support from the central government, the effective administration of the SAR government, the hardworking spirit of the people of Hong Kong and extensive support from the international community. As more and more enterprises from the Mainland are investing abroad and increasing their international presence, Hong Kong can fully tap into its strengths of information, expertise and talents. Hong Kong will have a new a bigger role to play as a bridge. She said that the continued success of “One Country, Two Systems in Hong Kong” needs continued acknowledgement by the international community that the two systems of the Mainland and Hong Kong operate within the framework of one and the same country. “One country” is the prerequisite of “Two Systems”. Hong Kong is part of China. There are many consular and representative offices of foreign countries and international organizations in Hong Kong and many international friends, too. They have played an important role in advancing the exchanges and cooperation between Hong Kong and the world. It is hoped that our foreign friends will continue to respect China’s sovereignty, respect the Basic Law and make positive contribution to Hong Kong’s development and stability. We wish for a better Hong Kong, a better China and a better world. After the speech, Ms. Fu also interacted with the audience on topics including education, the South China Sea, China’s national defense development and intellectual property rights, etc.  

The Better Hong Kong Foundation (“the Foundation”) completed its annual delegation to the United States from 16 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 four Foundation’s Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman of Roseville Group of Companies, Mr. Albert Ip, Independent Non-Executive Director of Eagle Asset Management (CP) Ltd, Mr. Philip Ma, Group Managing Director of The Sincere Co Ltd, and Ms. Diana Chou, Managing Director of Sino Private Aviation (HK) 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 developments in China, and to exchange views with interlocutors in the United States and gauge the temperature in the Beltway regarding their views on developments in Hong Kong, Mainland China, the U.S. and the China-US relationship. The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Commerce); the Legislative Branch (Congressional staffers); think tanks (Brookings Institution, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, National Committee on US-China Relations and US-Asia Institute); the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington DC; a financial institution (Morgan Stanley); rating agencies (Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings); and media (journalists from Barron’s Magazine, New York Post, Bloomberg TV, msnbc.com and NBC news). The delegation was invited to luncheons and dinner hosted by the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN (Ambassador Li Baodong), the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. (Minister Yang Zigang) and the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in New York (Deputy Consul General Dong Xiaojun). At a speech Mr. Ronnie Chan gave at an open luncheon, entitled “What does China’s 12th Five-Year Plan (12th FYP) mean to Americans – from the perspective of a Hong Kong Businessman”, he shared his observations of the latest developments in China and the role of Hong Kong. He explained the huge potential of the China market, demonstrated by the government’s commitment to economic growth, especially in the shift from an export-oriented economy to a domestic consumption oriented one. In response to the risk of a bubble in the property market, Mr. Chan said that there was no bubble as there was real demand in the market.  He stressed that the effort and determination of the central authority to control the surge in property prices could not be underestimated. Likewise, the targets set forth in the 12th FYP are good indicators for those who want to explore opportunities in China. 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 16 May 2011 (Monday) Fitch Ratings Mr. Stephen Joynt, Chief Executive Officer Mr. Daniel Noonan, Managing Director, Corporate Communications 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 Standard and Poor’s Mr. Paul Coughlin, Global Head & Executive Managing Director, Corporate & Government Ratings Ms. Mimi Barker, Director, Ratings Communications 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 17 May 2011 (Tuesday) The US-Asia Institute Breakfast Mr. Marlon Young, Chairman of USAI Mr. Kent Lucken, President of USAI Mr. Norman Lau Kee, Trustee of USAI Ms. Esther Lau Kee, Trustee of USAI Mr. David Lew, Trustee of USAI Mr. Kaytaro G. Sugahara, Trustee Emeritus, USAI Mr. Robert Jordan, Vice President Ms. Mary Sue Bissell, Vice President & Executive Director, USAI National Committee on U.S. China Relations Mr. Stephen Orlins, President Ms. Margote Landman, Senior Director for Education Progams The Hong Kong Association of New York Speaking Luncheon: “What does China’s 12th Five-Year Plan Mean to Americans – from the Perspective of a Hong Kong Businessman” by Mr. Ronnie Chan Gathering with Journalists Ms. Leslie Norton, Asia Editor, Barron’s Magazine Mr. Chuck Bennett, Reporter, New York Post Mr. Travis Altman, Bloomberg TV Morgan Stanley Mr. David Darst, Managing Director and Chief Investment Strategist of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Mr. David Lew, Senior Vice President, Morgan Stanley Msnbc and NBC News Mr. John Schoen, Senior Producer, msnbc.com Mr. Randy Stearns, Deputy Editor, East Coast, msnbc.com Ms. Miranda Leitsinger, Reporter, msnbc.com Mr. Geoff Tofield, Deputy Director, International, NBC News Washington DC 18 May 2011 (Wednesday) Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Mr. Donald Tong, Hong Kong Commissioner, USA Mr. Bassanio So, 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 Mr. Nelson Cheng, Visiting Fellow, Foreign Policy, Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies Mr. Cheng Li, Director of Research, John L Thornton China Center Mr. Jonathan Pollack, Senior Fellow, Foreign Policy, John L Thornton China Center Luncheon Hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the U.S.A Minister Yang Zigang Mr. Ma Xinmin, Counselor Mr. Wang Qing, First Secretary U.S. Department of State Mr. John Wecker, Economic Unit Chief, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs Mr. John Gorkowski, Hong Kong Desk, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs 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 Dinner Hosted by Washington DC Members of the Committee of 100 Mr. Benjamin Wu, President, USAI Dr. Jeremy Wu, Project Director, LEHD, U.S. Census Bureau Mr. Robert Gee, President, The Gee Strategies Group LLC Mr. Clarence Kwan, Senior Partner, U.S. Chinese Services Group, Deloitte LLP Mr. Bassanio So, Director-General, HKETO Ms. Angelica Tang, Executive Director, Committee of 100 Ms. Alice Lin, Program Associate, Committee of 100 19 May 2011 (Thursday) Capitol Hill Breakfast Forum with Key Congressional Advisors Mr. Benjamin Wu, President, 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. Philip Barnett, Staff Director, House Committee on Energy and Commerce Mr. Wayne Morrison, Specialist in Asian Trade and Finance, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service Ms. Emma Chanlett Avery, Specialist in Asian Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service Dr. Dick Nanto, Specialist in Industry and Trade, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division, Congressional Research Service Mr. Gabriel Adler, Senior International Trade and Economic Advisor, United States Senate Committee on Finance Democratic Staff Mr. Michael Holland, Counsel for Congressman Devin Nunes Dr. Anne Megaro, AAAS/FASS Congressional Fellow for Congressman Devin Nunes Dr. Susan Roosevelt Weld, General Counsel, Congressional-Executive Commission on China Prof. Alejandro Reyes, Visiting Associate Professor, Department of Politics and Public Administration, HKU Ms. Amelia Wang, Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Judy Chu The Heritage Foundation Mr. Walter Lohman, Director, Asian Studies Center Mr. John Von Kannon, Vice President and Senior Counselor Mr. Ken Sheffer, Counselor to the President Dr. Derek Scissors, Research Fellow, Asian Studies Center Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Mr. Douglas Paal, Vice President for Studies Mr. Michael Swaine, Senior Associate, Asia Program Mr. Yukon Huang, Senior Associate, Asia Program Mr. Uri Dadush, Senior Associate and Director, International Economics Program Mr. Jack Garrity, Executive Director, Asia Society Washington, DC Mr. Douglas Spelman, Deputy Director, Kissinger Center on China and the United States, Wilson Center Mr. Donald Tong, Commissioner, HKETO Ms. Christine Au, Director-General, HKETO Mr. Vincent Yao, Deputy Director, Political Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US Mr. Ira Kasoff, Senior Counselor, APCO Worldwide Ms. Cheryl McQueen, Director, Office of the Chinese Economic Area, US Dept of Commerce CATO Institute Dr. William A. Niskanen, Chairman Emeritus and Distinguished Senior Economist Mr. Ian Vasquez, Director, Center for Global Liberty and Prosperity Mr. Daniel Griswold, Director, Center for Trade Policy Studies Bio of Delegates Mr. Ronnie C. Chan Chairman, Hang Lung Group Executive 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 year of 2010, Hang Lung Properties reported a net profit of US$2.87 billion. Following successes in Shanghai, from 2005 to 2009 Hang Lung has been investing US$5 billion and building a number of world-class commercial complexes in several major Chinese cities – Tianjin, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi and Dalian. The first of these projects, Shenyang Palace 66, was completed and opened in June 2010, which heralds an era where one or more design-award-winning malls will open each year. 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, an Advisor and former Vice President of the China Development Research Foundation of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, and a former Trustee of China Foreign Affairs University. He founded and chairs the China Heritage Fund which restores cultural relics in China.  He is also a co-founder and a director of the Director’s Circle of the Palace Museum and of The Forbidden City Cultural Heritage Conservation Foundation, Beijing. 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 currently serves as Advisor on Strategic Development to Tsinghua University and Chairman of Hang Lung Center for Real Estate at Tsinghua University. He is also a Guest Professor at Tsinghua University and Nanjing University. 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. In 2009, he received the Outstanding Persons Award for the Preservation of Chinese Cultural Relics and the Highest Alumni Award of the University of Southern California. He is 61 years of age and resides in Hong Kong with his wife. They have two grown sons. Mr. Joseph Yu, MH Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies Mr. YU Joseph Shin Gay is a cofounder and the Chairman of Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Ltd. (HKIRC) and Hong Kong Domain Name Registration Company Ltd. (HKDNR) for the first and second term (upon the formation of HKIRC in late 2001). Mr. Yu played a pivotal role in establishing and overseeing the above organizations to ensure operational and financial success during their critical formative stage. In recognition of his achievement, Mr. YU was awarded the Medal of Honour by the Government of Hong Kong SAR in 2004. As a Standing Committee Member for the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Mr. YU represents the Commerce and Industry Class. Mr. YU graduated with Bachelor of Commerce degree (Honours in Economics) from McGill University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of British Columbia, where he received the Outstanding Alumnus Award. As an advocate for continuing education and life-long learning, Mr. YU completed a master degree course organized by the Department of Computer Science of the University of Hong Kong in association with Stanford University. He graduated with Master of Science (Ecommerce and Internet Computing) in 2003. Mr. YU is an experienced international banker. He held various senior executive (expatriate and non expatriate) positions for three international banks. He established and managed the merchant banking arms of two of these banks in Asia, where he was Managing Director and Head of the Asia Pacific region. Thereafter, Mr. YU took up the challenge of starting a second career in the securities industry by turning a Hong Kong securities company into a profitable category ‘B’ brokerage house where he remained as chief executive for seven years. In 1995, he founded and established the Pacific Challenge (Holdings) Co. Ltd., a financial service company, which was listed within three years on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Mr. YU was the Chairman of the Pacific Challenge (Holdings) Co. Ltd. From 1998 until he sold his interest in 2000. Mr. Yu is now the Chairman of the Roseville Group of Companies which conducts private equity business and maintains diversified financial interests globally. Mr. YU serves the community in various capacities. Apart from being a Standing Committee Member of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and a Member of Selection Committee of the Chater Memorial Scholarship of the University of Hong Kong. Mr. YU sits on the ICT Committee of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, ICT Committee of Education and Manpower Bureau of the Government of HKSAR, XBRL Committee of the SFC, Advisory Committee of RTHK and Council Member of the Hong Kong Committee of Unicef. He is currently an Honorary Advisor of HKIRC. Mr. YU firmly believes in branding .hk (or “dot hk”) to represent Hong Kong (and China) through service quality, dependability and efficiency. Mr. Albert IP Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Independent Non-Executive Director, Eagle Asset Management (CP) Ltd Albert Ip is an international banking and real estate professional, with 34 years of experience at Citigroup, First National Bank of Chicago, Wells Fargo Bank and Merrill Lynch, of which 24 years are in Hong Kong/ Asia and 10 years in the U.S., primarily New York City, San Francisco and Pacific Northwest. Areas of expertise are in corporate banking, real estate finance, financial institutions, commercial banking, transactional banking and wealth management. He was named Managing Director of Citigroup in 2003. Albert held senior executive positions at Citigroup, which included Managing Director/ Head of Global Transaction Banking, Corporate Customer Coverage and Financial Institutions and Managing Director/Head of Asia Regional Investment Finance of Global Wealth Management. At Citigroup, he was on the management committee of Corporate and Investment Bank – Hong Kong as well as Asia & Middle East Global Wealth Management. Albert joined Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) as Managing Director of Investments in 3/08. He is Independent Non-Executive Director of Eagle Asset Management (CP) Ltd. Albert believes in giving back to the community. He was Finance Committee Member of the Community Chest in Hong Kong. He taught Personal Economics in high schools. Albert is actively involved in recruiting undergraduate students for Washington University in St. Louis and Cornell University. Albert was frequent guest speaker at the following universities: Shantou University; Lingnan University; Hong Kong University of Science & Technology; Hong Kong University; Washington University in St. Louis; Cornell University; University of Macau; Cornell/Lingnan Video Talk; University of Delaware; Cornell/City University Video Talk; Peking University in Beijing; Peking University HSBC School of Business in Shenzhen; and Tsinghua University Albert has a passion towards higher education and participates in the following universities: Lingnan University – Council Member, Court Member and Advisory Board Member of the Business School; Washington University in St. Louis – International Advisory Council Asia and Advisory Board Member of the Center for Finance & Accounting Research; University of Macau – Advisory Committee Member, Future Studies and Placement Advisory Committee and Advisory Board Member, Faculty of Business Administration; Cornell University- Council Member City University – Member of International Advisory Board, College of Business (effective 7/1/2011) Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education – Discipline Advisory Board Member, Hotel, Service & Tourism Studies; Member and Governor, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong Limited (pending approval) Albert is Council Member of The Better Hong Kong Foundation and Member of Investment Task Group at The Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs Association of Hong Kong. He was Independent Non Executive Director and Audit Committee Member of Hopewell Holdings and Hopewell Highway Infrastructure, both listed companies in Hong Kong and lecturer at University of Pittsburgh’s evening MBA program in 1977-1978. Albert holds a B.S. degree in Applied Mathematics & Computer Science at Washington University (summa cum laude), M.S. degree in Applied Mathematics at Cornell University and M.S. in Accounting & Finance at Carnegie-Mellon University, supported by full scholarship and fellowship awards from the 3 universities. He is a U.S. citizen and married with one daughter. Mr. Philip K.H. MA Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Group Managing Director, The Sincere Company Limited Mr. Philip K.H. Ma was born in Hong Kong and holds a MBA degree from Canada.  In 1988, while working for Hewlett Packard Company, he returned to Hong Kong to head its Asia-Pacific regions.  In 1990, he joined The Sincere Company Limited, a listed company in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and one of the oldest department stores in Hong Kong, as Finance Director.  In 1993, he became the Group Managing Director.  Since then, he diversified Sincere’s business from the core base of retail department store to a multi-discipline conglomerate.  Today operations include furniture design and manufacturing, advertising agency services, master franchisor in the China travel industry, and property holdings in China and the UK. Mr. Ma is also active in his community services.  He is a current member of the 11th Shanghai Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and a member of the HKSAR 2nd and 3rd Election Committee, Vice-Chairman of Chamber of Tourism, All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, Council Member of The Better Hong Kong Foundation.  Mr. Ma was the Chairman of the Hong Kong Retail Management Association from 1996-2000.  His contribution to the Government and community services also includes HKSAR Administrative Appeal Board, HKSAR Government Copyright Tribunal, HKSAR Government Economy Advisory Committee, HKSAR Government Tourism Strategy Group and the Community Chest. Ms. Diana CHOU Council Member, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Managing Director, Sino Private Aviation Ltd Diana Chou is the Founder and Managing Director of Sino Private Aviation Limited, which is the leading Representative of Bombardier and Vistajet in China, Hong Kong and Macau.  She also founded Aerochine Aviation Limited, a helicopter distributor and broker of pre-owned aircraft.  Since founding her aviation business in 1999, Diana has built her companies into leading China players in the general aviation industry. A native of Shanghai, Diana grew up in an aviation environment, her father, K.P. Chao is the founder of Dragonair.  She now resides in Hong Kong and has over 28 years of experience in the hospitality, finance and retail industries, having held pivotal high-level positions in multi-national corporations including Hyatt Hotels, Le Meridien Hotels, Citi Bank, and Estee Lauder, Inc. Her experience in these companies has honed her edge in areas that range from sales and marketing to the management of brands and multi-million dollar budgets. She was also a founder of La Petite Chou (Holdings) Ltd, a Hong Kong-based distributor of fashion and lingerie with special retail interests in China and a strong network around Asia. Diana’s passion for her business also translates into a fervent commitment to social and charitable causes.  She is the founding member and Executive Committee Member of Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA), the member of Ningbo Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Council member of the Better HK Foundation and the Rotary Club of Kowloon Golden Mile.  She currently holds office as Vice Chairman of Ningpo & Hong Kong Fraternity Association Limited, also a Board of Director of the Ningpo Residents Association (HK) Ltd, and Ningbo Chinese Overseas Friendship Association. Diana is a strong advocate of children’s and cultural causes and is a devoted supporter of charities such as Habitat for Humanity, Sunbeam Children’s Foundation Ltd. and the Hong Kong University Museum and Art Gallery. She is also an outspoken campaigner for the improvement of aviation standards and pilot training in China and Hong Kong and is now raising funds to establish a scholarship for aviation students. Diana is a Political Science and Linguistics graduate of the University of Washington in Seattle. She also holds diplomas in hotel and retail management from Cannon’s International Business College in Honolulu, Hawaii, and The Hong Kong Management Association, respectively. Diana also has a MBA in Marketing from the University of Macau, formerly University of East Asia. Ms. Karen TANG Executive Director The Better Hong Kong Foundation Ms. Karen Tang was appointed as the Executive Director of the Better Hong Kong Foundation on June 1, 2006. Ms. 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). Ms. 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 President. Ms. Tang is now Council Member of the Lingnan University, Member of the History Museum Advisory Panel appointed by Hong Kong Government, Council Member of the Hong Kong Macau Research Centre of the Shanghai Academy of Social Science and Invest Guangzhou International Advisor. Mr. Ronnie Chan giving a speech entitled “What does China’s 12th Five Year Plan mean to Americans – from the Perspective of a Hong Kong Businessman” Meeting with Ambassador Li Baodong (4th left), China’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Meeting with Standard & Poor’s Meeting with experts from the Brookings Institution Minister Yang Zigang (4th left) of the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. hosting a luncheon to welcome the delegation Visit the Heritage Foundation

Led by the US-Asia Institute and supported by the HKSAR Government, the delegation visited Hong Kong on 25 – 29 April 2011. Before going to Hong Kong, the delegation visited Beijing and Urumqi, Kashgar in order to gain better understanding on the Chinese governance and hoped to facilitate dialogue on issues of great importance in the complicated relationship between the United States and China. During their stay in Hong Kong, the Foundation hosted a luncheon for the delegation on 28 April 2011. At the luncheon, the Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and invited guests Mr. K C Kwok, Former Government Economist of HKSAR, and Prof. Zhao Xinshu, Chair Professor and Dean of School of Communication of Hong Kong Baptist University, discussed and exchanged views with the delegates on the developments in the Mainland China as well as Hong Kong. Discussing and exchanging views at the luncheon The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang (3rd left), Mr. K C Kwok (2nd left) and Prof. Zhao Xinshu (1st right) with the delegates

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

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Philip Ma together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Ms. McGiffert during her visit in Hong Kong. Meeting with Ms. McGiffert (2nd right)

On 2 March 2011, the Better Hong Kong Foundation hosted a luncheon for American Fulbright scholars and students who were attending the Fulbright China Research Forum 2011 in Hong Kong. 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 Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Philip Ma, and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang together with invited guests Mr. K C Kwok, Former Government Economist, Mr. Patrick Wong, Partner Corporate & Commercial of Johnson Stokes & Master, Mr. Alfred Tsai, Managing Director Senior Advisor, Julius Baer (Hong Kong) Ltd as well as Dr. Yifan Hu, Managing Director/Chief Economist, CITIC Securities International joined the luncheon to exchange views about the development of China and Hong Kong with the scholars. Mr. Ronnie Chan giving welcome remarks Scholar sharing their views on China Mr. K C Kwok responding to comments from scholars Mr. Philip Ma exchanging views with scholars Dr. Glenn Shive (middle), Executive Director of Hong Kong America Center together with representatives of the group thanking Mr. Ronnie Chan (2nd left) and Ms. Karen Tang (1st right) for the hospitality of the Foundation

The Honourable John Tsang, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, delivered the 2011-2012 Budget Speech on 23 February 2011. On 1 March 2011, the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with Council Members Ms. Winnie Ng, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Tony Choi, Mr. Philip Ma, Ms. Diana Chou and Ms. Juliana Lam; Ms. Li Xuhua, representative of Trustee Dr. Sumet Jiaravanon; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang joined the luncheon and exchange views on the budget.  At the luncheon, Mr. Tsang elaborated this year’s budget to the business community. (Front row, R to L): Mr. Ronnie Chan, Prof Richard Wong, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Kevin Lam (Back row, R to L): Mr. Tony Choi, Ms. Winnie Ng, Ms. Diana Chou, Ms. Li Xuhua, Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. K C Kwok

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Albert Ip and Mr. Philip Ma together with Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Manley during his visit in Hong Kong. Meeting with Mr. John Manley (middle, front row)

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 28 February 2011. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for nearly 50 guests. This year, the Foundation is honoured to have invited Mr. Jasper Tsang, President of the Legislative Council to address at the luncheon with the topic “The Freest Economy – at what cost?”.  Mr. Tsang shared with guests his views on the challenges of governance of the Hong Kong government as well as the political development in Hong Kong. Participants include: The Better Hong Kong Foundation Trustees Mr. Ronnie Chan        Chairman, Hang Lung Properties Ltd Mr. Victor Cha             Managing Director, HKR International Ltd Mr. Peter Lam             Chairman, Lai Sun Development Co Ltd 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 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 Manufacturing Co Ltd Mr. Albert Ip                   Managing Director of Investments, Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Ltd Mr. Philip Ma                 Group Managing Director, The Sincere Co Ltd Ms. Diana Chou           Managing Director, Sino Private Aviation (HK) Ltd Mr. Sebastian Man      Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd Ms. Karen Tang           Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR Mr. Li Yuanming          Deputy Commissioner Mr. Tang Rui                Director-General, Department of Media and Public Relations Consulate General in Hong Kong Mr. James Nachipo             Deputy Consul General, Australian Consulate General Mr. Gerhard Alois                 Consul General, Austrian Consulate General Mr. Andrew Seaton               Consul General, British Consulate General Mr. Luy David                         Consul General, Royal Consulate General of Cambodia Ms. Doreen Steidle              Consul General, Consulate General of Canada Mr. Jaroslav Kanturek          Consul General, Consulate General of the Czech Republic Mr. Torben A Gettermann    Consul General, Royal Danish Consulate General Mr. Mohamed Fahmy           Consul General, Consulate General of Egypt Mrs. Maria Castillo Fernandez    Head of Office, European Union Mr. Werner Lauk                    Consul General, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany Mr. Chander Singh                Consul, Consulate General of India Mr. Teguh Wardoyo               Consul General, Consulate General of Indonesia Mr. M A Tabatabaei Hasan   Consul General, Consulate General of Iran Mr. Amikan Levy                      Consul General, Consulate General of Israel Ms. Alessandra Schiavo        Consul General, Consulate General of Italy Mr. Daisuke Matsunaga        Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Japan Mr. Nurzhan Abdymonunov   Consul General, Consulate General of Republic of Kazakhstan Mr. Jun Ok-hyun                       Consul General, Consulate General of Republic of Korea Mr. Firdauz bin Othman          Consul, Consulate General of Malaysia Mr. Robert Schuddeboom      Consul General, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Ms. Adele Bryant                      Consul General, New Zealand Consulate General Mr. Claro S Cristobal               Consul General, Consulate General of Philippines Mr. Manuel Carvalho               Consul General, Consulate General of Portugal Mr. Adnan Ali H. Al Humaidi    Vice Consul General, Royal Consulate General of Saudi Arabia Mr. Ang Seow Wei                     Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Singapore Mrs. Rita Hammerli-Weschke     Consul General, Consulate General of Switzerland Ms. Suree Trairatanaukool       Deputy Consul General, Royal Thai Consulate General Mr. Mehmet Raif Karaca            Consul General, Consulate General of Turkey Ambassador Stephen Young   Consul General, US Consulate General Mr. Pham Cao Phong                 Consul General, Consulate General of Vietnam International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Mr. Rob Chipman                      Chairman, American Chamber of Commerce Dr. Richard Vuylsteke                President, American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Wilhelm Brauner                 Chairman, Austrian Chamber of Commerce Brig. Christopher Hammerbeck   Executive Director, British Chamber of Commerce Mr. Andrew Work                         Executive Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce Mr. Jens-Erik Olsen                   Chairman, Danish Chamber of Commerce Mr. Nicholas Borit                       President, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ms. Orianne Chenain                 Deputy Director, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Rafael Aharoni                    Chairman, Israeli Chamber of Commerce Mr. Shin Hong Woo                  Chairman, Korean Chamber of Commerce Mr. David Whitwam                  Chairman, New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong Mr. Vincent Chow                        Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of Commerce Mr. Stefan Ronnquist                 Chairman, Swedish Chamber of Commerce Mr. Serge Fafalen                       President, Swiss Chamber of Commerce The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan giving a welcome remark Mr. Jasper Tsang giving a speech on “The Freest Economy – at what cost?” Nearly 50 guests attending the luncheon Q&A session for guests The Foundation’s Trustees Mr. Victor Cha (L) and Mr. Peter Lam (R) thanking Mr. Jasper Tsang on behalf of the Foundation (L to R)The Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang and Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Albert Ip, Mr. Sebastian Man, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Judy Yu and Ms. Winnie Ng

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

The Foundation’s Council Mr. Albert Ip and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Dr. Michael Martin during his visit to Hong Kong.

Please refer to the Chinese report. The Foundation’s Trustees Mr. Raymond Kwok (left) and Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu (right), and Mr. C Y Leung The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan delivering the welcome remarks Mr. C Y Leung sharing his views on the 12th 5 Year Plan The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu presenting the souvenir to Mr. C Y Leung on behalf of the organiser and co-organisers The organiser and co-ogranisers taking a group photo with Mr. C Y Leung

The Foundation’s Council Mr. Albert Ip and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Paul Haenle during his visit to Hong Kong.

ponsored by the Better Hong Kong Foundation and organized by the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, the 45th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition was successfully organised. The theme of this year’s photography competition was “quality life”. People were encouraged to express their wishes on quality life and the future of Hong Kong through their photos. The prize presentation ceremony was held on 13 February 2011 at the secretariat of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association. On behalf of the Foundation, Communications Manager Ms. Jimmie Chow (back row, 8th left) attending the prize presentation ceremony of the 45th Hong Kong Brands & Products Expo Photography Competition and presenting the awards

The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan, Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Diana Chou, Mr. Sebastian Man and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang met with Mr. Shagrir during his visit in Hong Kong. Mr. Hagai Shagrir (2nd right) meeting with the Foundation’s members

Please refer to the Chinese announcement.

The Better Hong Kong Foundation was one of the sponsors of the symposium which celebrating the 30th anniversary of the founding of Centre of Urban Studies and Urban Planning of the University of Hong Kong. The symposium was held on 8 January 2011 and distinguished speakers from the Mainland China, the UK as well as Hong Kong were gathered to share their insights on the urban planning and development over the past 30 years. Sharing on the urban planning and development over the past 30 years