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More than 500 guests thronged a reception at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre this evening (1 July) to mark the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
Speaking at the reception, the host and Director of the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office (HKETO) in Australia, Mrs Jenny Wallis, noted that Hong Kong's transition from a colony to a Special Administrative Region had been remarkably smooth and that the concept of "one country, two systems" had been turned into a working reality.
"Hong Kong has continued to flourish because of its free, open and competitive society," Mrs Wallis said. "Our economy continues to feature a conservative fiscal policy and a simple tax system with low tax rates. We provide the rule of law, free enterprise, free trade and a level playing field - all supported by an efficient civil service."
Mrs Wallis added that the new accountability system introduced as from 1 July was designed to make government more responsive and accountable to the people of Hong Kong, and represented a major step in the constitutional development of Hong Kong. "Those appointed (to the top levels of government) will take responsibility for their respective portfolios and be accountable for the success or otherwise of their policies. They will work more closely with all political parties to get things done faster and more smoothly."
Although economic growth in Hong Kong had been affected by regional and global economic downturns in recent years, Mrs Wallis stressed that Hong Kong remained one of the most prosperous and financially stable cities in Asia.
"What is more, Hong Kong is uniquely well-placed to take advantage of China's entry to the World Trade Organization. Our existing business links, as well as bonds of culture and language, are an enormous resource for overseas companies, especially small and medium enterprises, wishing to do business in China," Mrs Wallis said.
"Hong Kong is committed to strengthening its position as Asia's world city with programmes that enhance the city's hard and soft infrastructure, upgrading sectors such as information technology and education, and consolidating links with the Mainland and the world. We also have to further develop our main engines of growth, including financial services, logistics, tourism and producer and professional services."
In her address, Mrs Wallis paid tribute to the long-standing and close relationship between Hong Kong and Australia. "Australia has long been one of our valued partners, with a significant and growing presence in Hong Kong. From Hong Kong, we see Australia as an important part of Asia. We could not be more different in size but we are very much alike in the way shared values shape our respective communities. Both our rich multi-cultural societies are committed to the freedom of expression, open and transparent markets and a rules-based approach to doing business."
"As we continue to mature in our distinct identity, we look forward to continuing the successful partnership that we have with Australia."
Highlights of the evening included performances by the visiting King George V School Orchestra from Hong Kong and the Golden Kangaroo Marching Band. Guests at the reception also had the opportunity to view excerpts from a TV documentary, sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office and the Hong Kong Tourism Board, on Hong Kong's past, present and future. Entitled "Hong Kong 2002 - Five Years after the Handover", the documentary will be broadcast in full on the History Channel of FOXTEL and AUSTAR at 9.30 pm on 10 July.
Officiating guests at the reception included the federal Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs The Hon Gary Hardgrave, Chairman of the NSW East Asia Business Advisory Council The Hon Henry Tsang, who was also representing the NSW Premier, and HE Ambassador Wu Tao of the People's Republic of China.
End/Monday, July 1, 2002
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