​The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Lau Kong-wah, concludes his visit to Thailand today (March 1). He met with the Minister of Culture of Thailand, Mr Vira Rojpojchanarat, yesterday (February 28) in Bangkok and signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Co-operation to strengthen connections between Hong Kong and Thailand.

     Mr Lau said, "Last year, Hong Kong and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations signed a free trade agreement. Together with the MoU on Cultural Co-operation, we have created an enabling environment to strengthen relations against the backdrop of the Belt and Road Initiative. The Hong Kong Government is going to set up an Economic and Trade Office in Thailand, which will be a further impetus to closer ties."

     Yesterday, Mr Lau also met with the Advisor to the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, Mr Apichart Chirabandhu, to share their experiences in promoting sports development and explore opportunities in strengthening exchanges and co-operation. Mr Lau also visited the Sports Authority of Thailand to gain insights on the training conditions and development strategies of football and volleyball in Thailand. In the evening, he called at the China Cultural Center in Bangkok to watch performances by young Hong Kong musicians. The concert, entitled "Beyond Boundary·Beyond Time", was performed by an ensemble led by erhu player Chan Pik-sum and harmonica player CY Leo, whose joint performance showcased the creativity and charm of young Hong Kong musicians to the 300-plus audience in Bangkok.

     Mr Lau commenced his visit to Bangkok on February 27, during which he visited cultural facilities such as the Bangkok National Museum and the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center, and attended a spring reception organised by the Thai-Hong Kong Trade Association. He will return to Hong Kong this afternoon.

Ends/Thursday, March 1, 2018
Issued at HKT 12:43

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