The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Lau Kong-wah, today (August 26) attended the China-Japan-South Korea Cultural Ministers' meeting as a member of the Chinese delegation in Kyoto, Japan, at which he delivered a speech introducing Hong Kong's major cultural development projects, as well as its cultural connections with Japan and South Korea.
 
     In his speech, Mr Lau pointed out that traces of the cultural features of China, Japan and South Korea are easily found in the arts, cuisine and popular culture in Hong Kong.
 
     He noted that the "Japan Autumn Festival in Hong Kong - Rediscovering Nippon" organised by the Consulate-General of Japan in Hong Kong, and "Festive Korea" organised by the Korean Consulate General in Hong Kong, have received favourable reviews. There are also arts and culture programmes launched by China in Hong Kong, a prominent example being the "Genesis and Spirit" series which has become a branded programme, he added.
 
     At the end of November, Hong Kong will again host the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum. Mr Lau invited the cultural ministers and delegates of Japan and South Korea to attend the Forum, so as to enhance the exchange of opinions and boost cultural co-operation.
 
     Looking ahead, Mr Lau said the West Kowloon Cultural District will consolidate Hong Kong's status as a cultural hub, and that the construction of key buildings such as the Xiqu Centre and M+ will be completed from next year onwards. The Hong Kong Palace Museum will also be constructed in the West Kowloon Cultural District.
 
     The China-Japan-South Korea Cultural Ministers' meeting was initiated by the Ministry of Culture of the People's Republic of China and was first held in 2007, with this year marking the ninth edition. The Kyoto Declaration will be made during the meeting to promote cultural exchange between the three countries.
 
     Mr Lau will leave Kyoto for Tianjin at noon today to attend the 13th National Games.

Ends/Saturday, August 26, 2017
Issued at HKT 11:03

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