Speech by FS at signing ceremony of MoU on Aviation Services Research Centre (English only) (with photos/video)

Speech by FS at signing ceremony of MoU on Aviation Services Research Centre (English only) (with photos/video)
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     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at the signing ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding on Aviation Services Research Centre at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University this morning (November 10):

Dr Wu (Vice President, Boeing Research and Technology, China, Dr Wu Dongyang), Professor Tong (President, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Professor Timothy Tong), Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

     Good morning.

     I am really pleased to join you all for the signing ceremony. This Memorandum of Understanding between Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Boeing Company is the first of its kind for our city.

     We are delighted that PolyU is teaming up with the world's largest aerospace company to promote hi-tech innovation.

     This MoU on establishing an Aviation Services Research Centre is a groundbreaking initiative that will support our city's development and progress on several fronts.

     First of all, as an international aviation hub, this initiative will help Hong Kong play a key role in our nation's aeronautics development. Aeronautics is one of the seven "rising" industries identified in the Central Government's National 12th Five-year Plan.

     It will also give Hong Kong greater scope to take advantage of the Central Government's focus on aeronautics development and help establish Hong Kong as an aviation education and research centre.

     This MoU is also very timely. There is already strong demand for aviation expertise to support the industry's development, not just in Hong Kong and Mainland China, but also throughout Asia. As our region continues to expand and become more closely connected with global markets, this demand for aviation talent will grow.

     We are also fortunate in Hong Kong to have one of the best, busiest and biggest airports in the world. Much of its success depends on its people to operate, maintain and manage the day-to-day running of the facility efficiently, and above all, safely.

     Looking to the future, we have ambitious plans to increase the capacity of Hong Kong International Airport to meet anticipated demand for passenger and cargo services. This will create opportunities for skilled personnel in all departments and especially in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft and equipment.

     Ladies and gentlemen, it is an honour for me to join you all for this special occasion. With a strong commitment from Hong Kong, applied research enterprise of Polytechnic University and the Boeing Company's world-renowned leadership and expertise, I am confident that this collaboration will help propel our aviation industry to even greater heights.

     Thank you very much.

Ends/Saturday, November 10, 2012
Issued at HKT 12:28

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