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Hong Kong Commissioner for Economic and Trade Affairs, USA, Mr Donald Tong and Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, San Francisco (SFETO), Mr Jeff Leung, fostered trade ties between Hong Kong and the states of Colorado and Montana during their four-day visit to these two western states.
Mr Tong today (December 11, San Francisco time) met with the Governor of Colorado, Mr Bill Ritter and Governor of Montana, Mr Brian Schweitzer to update them on the latest developments of Hong Kong and to further strengthen the economic and cultural ties between Hong Kong and the two states.
In addition, the Commissioner and the Director met with Colorado Senate President, Mr Brandon Shaffer ; President of Montana State Senate, Mr Robert Story; Mayor of Helena, Montana, Mr James Smith; Mayor of Missoula, Montana, Mr John Engen; Deputy Mayor of Denver, Mr Bill Vidal and Executive Director of Western Governors' Association, Ms Pam Inmann to talk about Hong Kong's economic situation as well as the innovation and technology development in the city.
At the business luncheons co-organised by SFETO, chambers of commerce and world trade centres of Colorado and Montana as well as World Affairs Council of Montana, Mr Tong said as the global economy has stabilised, green shoots have emerged in Hong Kong. He said the city's economy grew by 3.3% in the second quarter over the previous quarter and business sentiments turned up distinctly.
"While we strengthen our economic pillars, we are broadening our economic structure by nurturing six new areas of development where Hong Kong enjoys clear advantages, namely; testing and certification; medical services; innovation and technology; cultural and creative industries; environmental industry; and educational services," he said.
Speaking at the Business School of University of Colorado, Denver and University of Montana, Mr Tong said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has reserved sites for the development of self-financing higher education institutions. Development of these sites would create business opportunities and provide enhanced services in the education fields. "As an open market, Hong Kong welcomes overseas investment in these areas," he said.
Ends/Saturday, December 12, 2009
Issued at HKT 10:00
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