State Councillor visits University of Hong Kong (with photos/videos)

State Councillor visits University of Hong Kong (with photos/videos)
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     State Councillor Madam Liu Yandong this morning (December 6) visited the Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) where she was greeted by the Chairman of the HKU Council, Dr Leong Che-hung; the Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen; and the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr York Chow.

     Madam Liu was briefed by the Vice-Chancellor of HKU, Professor Tsui Lap-chee, on the history of the faculty.  She praised the faculty’s high level of research excellence and encouraged it to continue its dedicated hard work and contribute to society.

     During the visit to the State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases at the faculty, Professor Guan Yi explained the focus area of research.  Madam Liu recognised the importance of surveillance and control of emerging diseases and encouraged medical professionals to work hard to guard against infectious diseases.

     The State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases is the only laboratory in the field to gain approval to set up outside the Mainland.  It was tasked to monitor and control emerging infectious diseases and provide a platform for bringing together and nurturing outstanding researchers.

     Later, at the Genome Research Centre, Madam Liu was given a briefing by Professor Tsui on the research conducted there.

     Madam Liu said that the HKU had rich experience in nurturing talents and profound academic achievements.  “China has to enhance international co-operation in education and work closely with Hong Kong in tertiary education.  I hope that Hong Kong will join hands with the Mainland to raise the level of education in the country,” she said.

     Madam Liu, accompanied by the Secretary for Transport and Housing, Ms Eva Cheng, called on the renowned contemporary sinologist Professor Jao Tsung-i at the Jao Tsung-i Petite Ecole of HKU.  She was attracted by precious exhibits of Professor Jao’s rare collections and calligraphy.

     On behalf of Premier Mr Wen Jiaobao, Madam Liu sent her regards to Professor Jao.  She congratulated Professor Jao for being awarded with Fellowship of China Central Research Institute of Culture and History.

     “Professor Jao’s precious collections enable the rest of the world to have a better understanding of Chinese culture,” Madam Liu said.

     In the afternoon, Madam Liu met presidents and vice-chancellors of the 10 local tertiary institutions to hear their views on the latest situation of tertiary education in Hong Kong.  She then met youth representatives of various sectors in Hong Kong and attended a welcoming reception of the 2009 Boao Youth Forum (Hong Kong).

     Madam Liu will leave Hong Kong and return to Beijing this evening.  The Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, will see her off at the airport.

Ends/Sunday, December 6, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:59

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