********************************************************
The Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Stephen Lam, officiated at the flag-presentation ceremony for a Beijing 2008 Olympic Games youth exchange programme this afternoon (March 22). Following is the transcript of his remarks in response to media questions on Hong Kong-Taiwan relations (English portion):
The Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs: The Hong Kong community has been following very closely the election taking place in Taiwan today. Our hope is that after the election, the Taiwanese side will continue to enhance Cross-Strait relations and also prepare positively for the introduction of the Three Direct Links. So far as Hong Kong is concerned, in the last few years, we have been promoting very actively the liaison between Taiwan and Hong Kong across a spectrum of political contacts. We welcome, here in Hong Kong, legislators representing the pan-blue and pan-green camps. We also enhance our liaison with professional bodies, media groups and academic contacts.
Our hope is that, following this election, the Taiwanese side will promote actively Cross-Strait relations and be positive towards the idea of Three Direct Links being introduced. As far as Hong Kong is concerned, we may, in the short term, see a slight reduction in tourism -- arrivals from Taiwan. But in the long run, if the economy across the Taiwan Strait expands, there will be additional opportunities for Hong Kong. Our financial services will be able to serve Taiwanese investors in the Mainland and Mainland enterprises, which will continue, we hope, to be successful.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Saturday, March 22, 2008
Issued at HKT 15:19
NNNN
