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At a Chinese New Year Reception in Melbourne tonight (12 February, Melbourne time), the Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO), Ms Lorna Wong, offered condolences to the victims of the bushfires and their families in Victoria on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government after inviting attending guests to observe a minute・s silence in memory of the victims.
The reception, jointly organised by HKETO, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the Hong Kong-Australia Business Association (Victoria Chapter), was attended by 300 guests from government, commerce, industry and the wider community.
：We are truly shocked and saddened by the loss of life and property. However, we have no doubt that with their strength and determination, and under Premier John Brumby・s able leadership, the people of Victoria will overcome the challenges ahead.
：Hong Kong remains a firm friend to Victoria, especially at this trying time,； she said.
Ms Wong said Victoria was an integral part of Hong Kong・s strong ties with Australia and the HKETO would continue to build on the friendship throughout the Year of the Ox.
Ends/Thursday, February 12, 2009
Issued at HKT 20:23
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