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Following is the speech delivered by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at the opening of the World's Greatest Catwalk 2012 Hong Kong at Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade today (December 9):
Kevin (Chairman of the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association, Mr Kevin Yeung), Pia (Mayor of Culture and Leisure, Copenhagen, Ms Pia Allerslev), Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good afternoon. I am really delighted to join you all today for the World's Greatest Catwalk 2012 Hong Kong. And what a spectacular day!
A warm welcome to you all, and especially to our special guests from overseas.
This event brings together some 350 local and international models, showcasing exquisite designs along our world famous Victoria Harbour waterfront. As well as featuring renowned names in fashion, we also have one of the best known cityscapes as the backdrop for this catwalk.
Hong Kong is proud to join hands with Denmark to stage this world record-breaking event by having more than 340 models in a single show. It is also the longest catwalk ever, covering almost three kilometres. No doubt, walking that distance will be quite a challenge in any event in high heels!
Although the Danish capital Copenhagen currently holds the world record, the overall theme today is one of co-operation with Denmark rather than competition. In fact, this event is the first such collaboration between Hong Kong and Danish fashion designers. It also follows hot on the heels of Business of Design Week where Denmark was our partner country this year.
The World's Greatest Catwalk not only represents a meeting of creative minds, it is also the start of a new phase of design collaboration between Hong Kong and Denmark.
As our designated "Hong Kong Design Year 2012" draws to a close, the HKSAR Government is keen to build on the momentum in establishing our city as a creative capital and design hub in Asia. The World's Greatest Catwalk is part of our effort to promote closer international partnerships and give our talented fashion designers greater exposure in the international design arena.
Last, but by no means least, I wish to congratulate the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association and the Danish Fashion Institute on co-organising the World's Greatest Catwalk 2012 Hong Kong.
I wish this event every success and thank you very much for all your support.
Thank you.
Ends/Sunday, December 9, 2012
Issued at HKT 15:56
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