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Following is the speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, at the Prime Source Forum 2016 Core Club Dinner today (March 15):
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening.
It is indeed a great pleasure for me to join you all tonight at the Prime Source Forum 2016 Core Club Dinner. This is the first time that such a small cosy networking dinner has been arranged among the senior sourcing executives to provide a good opportunity for us to renew our acquaintance and to make new friends. I must say that this casual social gathering is a perfect complement to celebrate the successful conclusion of this year's Forum.
The presence of so many international sourcing experts here speaks for itself on the significance of Hong Kong as a global sourcing hub. We are a dynamic global city and the perfect "super-connector" linking up enterprises with the promising business opportunities in the region.
Hong Kong enjoys a unique advantage under our "one country, two systems" arrangement which no other city in China, and indeed no other economy in the world, can match.
The "one country" part of this successful formula means that we enjoy the best market access to the Mainland, and many other benefits that come with being a privileged player in China, the world's second-largest economy. As for "two systems", we offer free market access to Hong Kong, the common law system, rule of law, open and democratic government, independent judiciary and English as one of the official and business languages.
This unique duality has made us a magnet for business where nearly 8,000 international companies have established their foothold in Hong Kong.
Looking ahead, the lacklustre global economy and the sluggish export climate pose challenges to us. The world economy is in need of a new and strong driving force in the 21st century. And I believe the Belt and Road Initiative can be that much-needed force. Hong Kong has what you need in a strategic partner as you venture into markets of the Belt and Road countries. You are most welcome to join hands with us to make full use of our advantages in tapping the massive Asian markets and beyond.
While this Core Club Dinner marks the conclusion of this year's Forum, I am sure that our friendship would be further strengthened in the years ahead.
Thank you.
Ends/Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Issued at HKT 22:06
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