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EVENT

2012 - 2016

2016 Shanghai-Hong Kong Forum: One Belt, One Road & Financial Collaboration

The Foundation, together with the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences (SASS) and Shanghai Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CCPC), organized the forum on “‘One Belt, One Road’ and Financial Collaboration between Shanghai and Hong Kong: Opportunities, Challenges and Prospects” on 2 November 2016 aimed at further promoting collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai. It was the eleventh annual forum that was jointly organized by the three organizations. This year’s forum was supported by the Shanghai International Economic Exchange Foundation. More than a hundred experts, scholars, government officials and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and the Mainland attended the forum. The Deputy Chairman of the Shanghai CCPC Mr. Zhang Endi, President of the SASS Prof. Wang Zhan together with the Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan officiated at the opening ceremony of the forum. Invited by the Foundation, Mr. Wesley Kong from Haitong International Securities Group Ltd gave a presentation at the forum’s afternoon session Mr. Ronnie Chan gave an opening remark The Foundation’s Trustee Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu’s representative Ms. Peggy Ng; Council Members Mr. Philip Ma and Mr. Andrew Yao; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang also participated in the forum. Mr. Ronnie Chan (5th left), Mr. Andrew Yao (3rd left), Mr. Philip Ma (4th right) and Ms. Karen Tang (5th right) attended the forum
2016.11.02

2016 China-U.S. Journalists Exchange

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 7th 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, Zhengzhou and Hong Kong from 17 – 28 September 2016 while five Chinese journalists visited Houston, Texas 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. Jesus Ayala, Producer, ABC News, Glendale, California– Mr. Jake Heller, Producer and Host, NBC News, New York, New York – Ms. Liz Jones, Reporter, KUOW Public Radio, Seattle, Washington– Mr. Don Lee, Economics Reporter, Los Angeles Times (Tribune Washington Bureau), Washington, DC– Ms. Elizabeth Ralph, Deputy Editor, Politico Magazine, Arlington, Virginia– Ms. Jessica Schulberg, Foreign Affairs Reporter, Huffington Post, Washington, DC Organizations visited:Beijing– Mr. Zhu Guangyao, Vice Minister, Ministry of Finance– Ministry of Foreign Affairs – HKSAR Government Office in Beijing – China Institute of International Studies– School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University– China Central Television– People’s Daily Online Meeting with Mr. Zhu Guangyao (4th left), Vice Minister, Ministry of Finance Zhengzhou– Mr. Gao Xidong, Vice Governor, The People’s Government of Luohe City– Shuanghui Group– Swire Coca-Cola Beverages Luohe Ltd– Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone– Zhengzhou International Hub Development and Construction Co Ltd– Henan Museum– Training Base of Warrior Monks Group of Songshan Shaolin Temple– Shaolin Temple Visit to a Shaolin Kung Fu training center Hong Kong– Mr. Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive– Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR – Deputy Commissioner Song Ru’an, Office of Commissioner of the PRC’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR– Mr. Kurt Tong, Consul General of American Consulate General – Dr. David Chung, Under Secretary for Innovation and Technology– Mr. Wesley Wong, Solicitor General– Mr. Lau Ming-wai, Chairman of Youth Commission– Hong Kong Monetary Authority – American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong – Vision 2047 Foundation– Asia Society Hong Kong Center– Foreign Correspondents’ Club, Hong Kong Meeting with the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying List of Chinese journalists– Ms. Wu Qimin, Deputy Director, International News Department, The People’s Daily, Beijing– Ms. Sun Xiaohui, Deputy Director, China Daily Website, Beijing– Mr. Li Yanqing, Producer, International Department, Heilongjiang Broadcasting Station, Haerbin, Heilongjiang Province– Ms. Wang Guanzhi, News Reporter, Shaanxi Broadcasting and TV Station, Xian, Shaanxi Province– Mr. Huang Baohua, News Anchor & Reporter, Wuhan & TV Station, Wuhan, Hubei Province 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 Mr. Tung Chee-hwa (4th right), Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR
2016.09.17 - 2016.09.30

10th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Final

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 10th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest was successfully held on 9 July 2016. The contest aims to raise students’ interest in international affairs and knowledge of the nation’s foreign policy. The theme of this year’s contest was “Changed and Unchanged on Diplomacy of Great Powers”. In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the contest, the organizers were deeply honored to have invited the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying to be the Guest of Honor and to address at the prize presentation ceremony. On behalf of the Foundation, Trustee Mr. Yeung Kin-man was one of the officiating guests of the Final while Council Members Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Samson Chan and Dr. Allen Shi, and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang attended the event. Other officiating guests included Acting Commissioner Tong Xiaoling, Director-General of the Education, Science & Technology Department of Liaison Office of Central Government in HKSAR Mr. Li Lu, Counselor of the Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs of MFA Ms. Tian Min and Counselor of the Information Department of MFA Ms. Wei Xin. TThe Final was successfully held on 9 July After fierce competition, the championship went to PLK Tung Yuk Tien College. Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School and PLK Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College won the Silver awards while Sing Yin Secondary School, CNEC Christian College and Ying Wa College won the Bronze awards respectively. The competition was fierce Invited by the Foundation, Mr. Andrew Liao, Member of the Executive Council 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. Zheng Qirong. Panel of Judges: (L to R) Deputy Commissioner Song Ru’an, Mr. Guo Xiangang, Prof. Zheng Qirong and Mr. Andrew Liao Over 5700 students participated in this year’s contest. The Final was held and recorded at the TVB studio and more than 400 audiences including students and teachers from primary and secondary schools were amazed by the excellent performances of the finalists. A special TV program about the contest was produced and broadcast on 16 July 2016. The Foundation’s Trustee Mr. Yeung Kin-man presented the Bronze Award to Sing Yin Secondary School Results of Secondary School Category: Gold Po Leung Kuk Tung Yuk Tien College Silver Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School Po Leung Kuk Centenary Li Shiu Chung Memorial College Bronze Sing Yin Secondary School CNEC Christian College Ying Wa College Best Spokesperson Koo Kit-yan (Baptist Lui Ming Choi Secondary School) Merits Shatin Pui Ying College Queen’s College Heung To Middle School La Salle College NT Heung Yee Kuk Yuen Long District Secondary School SKH Chan Young Secondary School Liu Po Shan Memorial College Kwun Tong Government Secondary School Kwun Tong Maryknoll College
2016.07.09

2016 U.S. Delegation

The Foundation completed its annual delegation visit to the United States from 7 to 10 June 2016. 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. Thomas Woo, Executive Managing Director & General Manager, Hsin Kuang Restaurant (Holdings) Ltd; Ms. Winnie Ng, Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd; Mr. Philip Ma, Chairman & CEO, The Sincere Co Ltd; Mr. Sebastian Man, Chairman & CEO, Chung Mei International Holdings Ltd; Ms. Juliana Lam, Managing Director, Julius Industries Ltd; Mr. John Lee, Managing Director of Bank of America Merrill Lynch; Mr. Anson Chan, Chairman & CEO, Bonds Group of Companies and Ms. Rosana Wong, Executive Director, Yau Lee Holdings Ltd; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. (L to R) Mr. John Lee, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Karen Tang, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Zhu Min (Deputy Managing Director of IMF), Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Rosana Wong and Mr. Anson Chan The delegation visited the Executive Branch (U.S. Department of State); members of the Legislative Branch (Congresswomen Grace Meng and Judy Chu); think tanks (The Brookings Institution, Cato Institute, Center for American Progress and Council on Foreign Affairs); financial and economic research institutions (International Monetary Fund, Morgan Stanley and Rhodium Group); a rating agency (Fitch Ratings); a university (George Washington University); NGOs (America China Public Affairs Institute, Asia Society, Hong Kong Association of New York and the U.S.-Asia Institute) and media (Barron’s). The delegation was honored that the Embassy of the PRC in the U.S. (DCM & Minister Wu Xi), 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. 7 June 2016 (Tuesday) America China Public Affairs Institute – Mr. Fred Teng, President The Brookings Institution – Dr. Richard Bush, Director, Center for East Asia Policy Studies – Mr. Kenneth Lieberthal, Senior Fellow – Dr. David Dollar, Senior Fellow – Mr. Philippe Le Corre, Visiting Fellow Lunch hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China – Ms. Wu Xi, DCM & Minister (副館長吳璽公使) – Mr. Zhou Jingxing, Chief of the Political Section and Minster-Counselor (Political) – Ms. Fang Hong, Counselor (Political) – Mr. Hu Yumin, First Secretary Cato Institute – Dr. Daniel Mitchell, Senior Fellow International Monetary Fund – Mr. Zhu Min (朱民), Deputy Managing Director – Mr. Siddharth Tiwari, Director, Strategy, Policy and Review Department – Mr. Alfred Kammer, Deputy Director, Strategy, Policy and Review Department – Ms. Julie Ziegler, Senior Communications Officer, Strategy, Policy and Review Department Dinner hosted by The George Washington University – Ambassador Reuben Brigety II, Dean of Elliott School of International Affairs – Prof. Linda Livingston, Dean of School of Business – Prof. Ben Hopkins, Incoming Director of the Sigur Center for Asian Studies – Ms. Lori Cwalina, Assistant Vice President for Development at the Elliott School – Ms. Elizabeth Mitchell, Assistant Vice President at the School of Business Meeting at the Brookings Institution 8 June 2016 (Wednesday) Capitol Hill Breakfast Meeting hosted by The U.S.-Asia Institute – Mr. Jason Chung, Republican National Committee Director of Asian Pacific American Initiatives – Ms. Christine Chen, Director of Asia Pacific Islander American Vote – Mr. Christopher Nelson, Senior Vice President, Samuels International – Mr. Javade Chaudhri, Partner, Jones Day Law Firm; Trustee, US-Asia Institute – Ms. Julie Chon, Global Head Public Investment Strategy, Perry Capital; Trustee, US-Asia Institute – Ms. Mary Purdy, Senior Advisor, US-Asia Institute – Ms. Mary Sue Bissell, Executive Director, US-Asia Institute Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY) Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA) Speaking Luncheon hosted by America China Public Affairs Institute Highlighted guests: – Ms. Barbara Franklin, Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce – Ms. Elaine Chao, Former U.S. Secretary of Labor – Ms. Charlene Barshefsky, Former U.S. Trade Representative – Mr. Rudy deLeon, Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense – Mr. Stapleton Roy, Former U.S. Ambassador to China – Mr. Douglas Paal, Former Director of American Institute in Taiwan – Mr. Norm Coleman, Former U.S. Senator from Minnesota – Mr. John Frisbie, President, US China Business Council Center for American Progress – Mr. Andy Green, Managing Director, Economic Policy – Mr. Rudy deLeon, Senior Fellow US Department of State – DAS Peter Haymond, Director, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs – Mr. Alan Brinker, Desk Officer, Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs Speaking Luncheon hosted by America China Public Affairs Institute New York 9 June 2016 (Thursday) Breakfast Meeting hosted by Morgan Stanley – Mr. Thomas Nides, Vice Chairman – Ms. Lisa Shalett, Head of Investment and Portfolio Strategies, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Speaking Luncheon hosted by Asia Society for Mrs. Carrie Lam, Chief Secretary for Administration Council on Foreign Relations – Mr. Justin Vogt, Deputy Managing Editor, Foreign Policy Barron’s – Mr. Ed Finn, Editor and Publisher of Barron’s US – Mr. Kopin Tan, Editor, Barron’s Asia Hong Kong Association of New York Gala Dinner for Mrs. Carrie Lam, Chief Secretary for Administration With Mrs. Carrie Lam (4th right) at the HKANY Gala Dinner 10 June 2016 (Friday) Breakfast Meeting hosted by the Hong Kong Association of New York Fitch Ratings – Mr. Dan Champeau, Managing Director, Global Public Finance, Global Infrastructure & Project Finance – Mr. Jack Archibald, Senior Director, Business Development, Public Finance Luncheon Jointly Hosted by the Permanent Mission of P.R. China to the United Nations and Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New York – Ambassador Liu Jieyi (劉結一大使), Permanent Representative – Ambassador Zhang Qiyue (章啟月大使),Consul General Rhodium Group – Mr. Daniel Rosen, Partner – Ms. Jeeway Kan, Director of Business Development Ambassador Liu Jieyi (5th right) and Ambassador Zhang Qiyue (6th right) jointly hosted a luncheon for the delegation  
2016.06.07 - 2016.06.10

Luncheon with Tung Chee-hwa, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR

On 18 April 2014, 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 Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. Joseph Yu, Mr. Philip Ma, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Dr. Raymond Leung, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Anson Chan, Ms. Alice Au and Mr. Alex Yip; Corporate Sponsors’ representatives Mr. Sun Jianfeng and Mr. Edward Chan; Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang; and guests Ms. Vivien Tam and Ms. Ella Kwan also joined the luncheon. (Sitting, L to R) Ms. Alice Au, Mr. Sebastian Man, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Ms. Li Xuhua, Mr. Joseph Yu and Dr. Raymond Leung (Standing, L to R) Mr. Sun Jianfeng, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Edward Chan, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Thomas Woo, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Peter Lo, Mr. Anson Chan, Mr. Alex Yip, Mr. Philip Ma, Dr. Roy Chung, Ms. Vivien Tam and Ms. Ella Kwan
2016.04.13

Spring Luncheon with Consulates & Chambers – addressed by C Y Leung, Chief Executive of the HKSAR

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 25 February 2016. The Foundation’s Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan together with Trustees Mr. Victor Cha, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu and Ms. Pansy Ho as well as the Foundation’s members hosted the luncheon for more than 40 guests. The Foundation was deeply honored to have invited the Chief Executive of the HKSAR Mr. Leung Chun-ying to address us at the luncheon. Speech by the Chief Executive Mr. Leung Chun-ying Participants include: The Better Hong Kong FoundationTrustees– Mr. Ronnie Chan, 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. Pansy Ho, Managing Director, Shun Tak Holdings Ltd Corporate Sponsors– Mr. Andrew Fan, Regional President, Nu Skin Greater China– Ms. Mimzy Si, Corporate Sponsor’s representative / Director – Investor Relations & Corporate Communications, Haitong International Securities Group 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– Ms. Winnie Ng, Director, The Kowloon Motor Bus Co Ltd – Mr. Joseph Yu, Chairman, Roseville Group of Companies– Mr. Philip Ma, Chairman & CEO, The Sincere Co Ltd– Ms. Juliana Lam, Managing Director, Julius Industries Ltd – Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Director, Artemis Digital Ltd– Mr. Samson Chan, Chairman & CEO, Manley Toys Ltd – Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Regional Director-Agency, AXA China Region Insurance Co Ltd– Mr. John Lee, Managing Director, Bank of America Merrill Lynch– Mr. Kin Yeung, Director/Founder, Blanc de Chine– Mr. Bryant Lu, Vice Chairman, Ronald Lu & Partners (Hong Kong) Ltd– Mr. Andrew Yao, Chairman, Van Shung Chong Holdings Ltd– Mr. Andrew Yu, Director, Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium Ltd– Ms. Alice Au, Partner, Spencer Stuart– Ms. Karen Tang, Executive Director, The Better Hong Kong Foundation   Mr. Leung Chun-ying and members of the Foundation Consulate General in Hong Kong– Dr. Claudia Reinprecht, Consul General, Consulate General of Austria– Mr. Gustavo Horacio Luis Fazzari, Consul General, Consulate General of Argentina– Ms. Michèle Deneffe, Consul General, Consulate General of Belgium– Ms. Caroline Wilson, 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. Vincent Piket, Head of Office, European Union– Mr. Jari Sinkari, Consul General, Consulate General of Finland– Mr. Graf Lambsdorff, Consul General, German Consulate General– Mr. Christodoulos Margaritis, Consul General, Consulate General of Greece– Mr. Mehdi Fakheri, Consul General, Consulate General of Iran– Mr. Sagi Karni, Consul General, Consulate General of Israel– Mr. Antonello De Riu, Consul General, Consulate General of Italy– Mr. Masaru Igawahara, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Japan– Mr. Kim Kwang-dong, Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea– Mr. Adnan Alghunaim, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of the State of Kuwait– Mr. Saul Zambrano Barajas, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of Mexico– Mr. Zaw Zaw Soe, Consul General, Consulate General of Myanmar– Mr. Paul Korff de Gidts, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands– Ms. Gabrielle Anne Rush, Consul General, New Zealand Consulate General– Miss Bernardita L Catalla, Consul General, Consulate General of Philippines– Mr. Alexander Kozlov, Consul General, Consulate General of Russian Federation– Mr. Omar B. Al Bunayan, Consul General, Consulate General of Saudi Arabia– Mr. Santiago Martinez-Caro, Consul General, Consulate General of Spain– Mr. Leon Naidoo, Consul (Political), Consulate General of South Africa– Mrs. Helena Storm, Consul General, Consulate General of Sweden– Mr. Reto Renggli, Consul General, Consulate General of Switzerland– Miss. Marinee Suwanmoli, Deputy Consul-General, Royal Thai Consulate-General– Mr. Tahsin Güven, Vice Consul, Consulate General of Turkey– Mr. Clifford A. Hart, Consul General, U.S. Consulate General International Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong– Mr. William Lin, Hong Kong China Affairs Director, American Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Wilhelm Brauner, Chairman, Austrian Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Andrew Seaton, Executive Director, British Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Daniel de Blocq van Scheltinga, Chairman, Dutch Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Richard Burton, Chairman, European Chamber of Commerce– Ms. Anna Hyske, Board Director, Finnish Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Wolfgang Niedermark, CEO, German Chamber of Commerce– Dr. Rafael Aharoni, Chairman, Israeli Chamber of Commerce– Mr. David Whitwam, Chairman, New Zealand Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Vincent Chow, Honorary Executive Director, Singapore Chamber of Commerce– Mr. Ulf Ohrling, Chairman, Swedish Chamber of Commerce Local Chamber of Commerce– Ms Shirley Chan, First Vice President, Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of HK
2016.02.25

Annual Spring Luncheon & Media Gathering

On 26 January 2016, the Foundation held its annual spring luncheon with members and media gathering to celebrate the Year of the Monkey 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 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   Corporate Sponsors –          Mr. Pan Jun                       Chairman of the Board of Directors & CEO, Fantasia Group –          Ms. Mimzy Sze                   Corporate Sponsor’s representative / Director – Investor Relations & Corporate Communications, Haitong International Securities Group 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. 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. Chan Yim-kwong         Regional Director-Agency, AXA China Region Insurance Co Ltd –          Mr. Frankie Yeung             Senior District Director, AIA International Ltd –          Mr. John Lee                     Managing Director, Bank of America Merrill Lynch –          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. Andrew Yu                  Director, Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium Ltd –          Mr. Alex Yip                       Chief Executive Officer, Greater China, Lockton Companies (Hong Kong) Ltd –          Mr. William Chao               Council Member Ms. Diana Chou’s representative / Account Manager, L’VOYAGE –          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; Corporate Sponsor’ representative Ms. Mimzy Sze; Council Members Mr. Thomas Woo, Mr. John Lee and Mr. Lee Yuen-hong; and Executive Director Ms. Karen Tang. Members of the Foundation send Chinese New Year greetings to people of Hong Kong: (Front Row, L to R) Mr. Frankie Yeung, Mr. Chan Yim-kwong, Dr. Raymond Leung, Ms. Juliana Lam, Mr. Victor Cha, Mr. Ronnie Chan, Dr. Henry Cheng, Tan Sri Dato’ David Chiu, Mr. Thomas Woo, Dr. Roy Chung, Mr. Kin Yeung and Mr. Joseph Yu; (Back Row, L to R) Mr. Andrew Yu, Mr. Lee Yuen-hong, Mr. John Lee, Ms. Mimzy Sze, Mr. Pan Jun, Mr. William Chao, Ms. Karen Tang, Mr. Leung Wai-fung, Mr. Sebastian Man, Mr. Samson Chan, Mr. Alex Yip and Mr. Anson Chan
2016.01.26

2015 Shanghai-Hong Kong Forum: One Belt, One Road: Roles, Opportunities and Challenges

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
2015.10.29

2015 China-U.S. Journalists Exchange

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 
2015.09.05 - 2015.09.18

9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Study Tour to Beijing & Jiangsu

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)
2015.08.02 - 2015.08.08

9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Final

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  
2015.07.11

2015 U.S. Delegation

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  
2015.07.06 - 2015.07.09

9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Semi-final

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  
2015.05.23

2015 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) Press Conference

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
2015.05.18

Luncheon with Tung Chee-hwa, Vice Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and first Chief Executive of the HKSAR

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
2015.04.08

9th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – First Round

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
2015.03.23 - 2015.03.31

Spring Luncheon with Consulates & Chambers – addressed by Rimsky Yuen, Secretary for Justice

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
2015.03.04

Annual Spring Luncheon & Media Gathering

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
2015.02.10

China-U.S. Economic Outlook Conference

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
2014.12.03

2014 Shanghai-Hong Kong Forum: New Starting Point for HK-Shanghai Cooperation

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
2014.11.10

2014 China-U.S. Journalists Exchange

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
2014.09.14 - 2014.09.27

8th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Study Tour to Beijing & Guizhou

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.
2014.08.01 - 2014.08.08

8th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Final

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
2014.07.05

2014 US Delegation

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
2014.06.24 - 2014.06.27

2014 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) Press Conference

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.
2014.05.29

Luncheon with Zhang Xiaoming, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR

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
2014.04.15

Spring Speaking Luncheon with Consulates & Chambers – Addressed by Chief Secretary for Administration Carrie Lam

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
2014.02.27

Annual Spring Luncheon & Media Gathering

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
2014.01.21

2014 Israel Delegation

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
2014.01.09 - 2014.01.15

2013 China-U.S. Journalists Exchange

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.
2013.10.26 - 2013.11.09

2013 Shanghai-HK Economic Forum

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
2013.10.10 - 2013.10.11

Seminar on Future Development of Hengqin, Zhuhai

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  
2013.09.17

7th Hong Kong Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Study Tour to Beijing & Harbin

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.  
2013.08.09 - 2013.08.16

7th HK Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest – Final

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
2013.07.06

2013 Annual U.S. Delegation Press Conference

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.
2013.06.26

2013 Annual U.S. Delegation

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
2013.06.10 - 2013.06.13

2013 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) Press Conference

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
2013.05.20

2013 Taiwan Delegation

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
2013.04.16 - 2013.04.19

New Year Luncheon with Consulates & Chambers – Addressed by C Y Leung,Chief Executive of HKSAR

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)
2013.02.20

2012 China-U.S. Journalists Exchange

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
2012.11.24 - 2012.12.07

2012 Annual U.S. Delegation Press Conference

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.
2012.07.11

2012 Annual U.S. Delegation

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)
2012.06.20 - 2012.06.25

2012 China Urban Competitiveness Report (Hong Kong) – Press Conference:

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
2012.05.23

Spring Luncheon with Consulates and Chambers, addressed by C Y Leung, Candidate for Chief Executive of Hong Kong in 2012

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
2012.02.17