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The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, today (February 25) assured industry leaders from the tourism and retail sectors that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government attaches great importance to their contribution to the Hong Kong economy and the employment opportunities they have created for the local workforce.
Mr So, accompanied by the Commissioner for Tourism, Mr Philip Yung, held a meeting with the industry leaders invited by Executive Councillor and Legislative Councillor Mrs Regina Ip this afternoon.
At the meeting, the industry leaders expressed disapproval of the recent incidents in which tourists in major shopping districts in Hong Kong were disturbed. They were in support of the Government's condemnation of such irrational behaviour and hoped that similar incidents would not be repeated as they not only brought about adverse impacts on Hong Kong's business environment but also cast a negative light on Hong Kong's tourism appeal to visitors from all parts of the world.
"We thank the industry leaders for taking time to voice their concerns to the bureau, and for providing us with valuable suggestions to upgrade our capacity to receive tourists. We are delighted to work with them, the government offices concerned and the Hong Kong Tourism Board to create a pleasant environment for visitors," Mr So said.
The industry leaders came from a range of businesses of the tourism and retail sectors, including hotels, department stores, apparel and food and beverage.
Ends/Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:23
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