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Following is the transcript of remarks (English portion) by the Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, at a media session after attending the morning session of the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum 2009 today (October 8):
Secretary for Home Affairs: This morning the participating cultural minister and senior officials of the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum had a fruitful discussion on a number of issues pertinent to the development of culture and the arts and the enhancement of cultural co-operation in the region.
Under the overall theme "The Cultural Asian", participating officials have shared our experience and vision in keeping our cultural ecologies diverse, lively and vibrant. I am very happy to announce that we have agreed on a statement on cultural co-operation.
We have pledged to dedicate our efforts in five areas of work -
a) We should provide opportunities for everyone to experience art and develop individuals' potential in culture;
b) We should further emphasise culture a driver of economic growth and provide an environment that is conducive to the development of cultural and creative enterprises and industries;
c) We should continue to support local and global cultural dialogue and promote free flow of cultural exchanges in the region;
d) We should accord priority to the preservation of cultural heritage; and
e) We should encourage creative endeavours of people, particularly of the younger generation.
Thank you.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript)
Ends/Thursday, October 8, 2009
Issued at HKT 15:45
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