Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, at the 2022/23 Season Opening Concert of Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) today (September 9):
 
Mr Yang Yirui (Acting Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Mr Cogman (Chairman, Board of Governors, Hong Kong Philharmonic Society, Mr David Cogman), Mr Tong (Director of Public Affairs, Swire Pacific Limited, Mr James Tong), Mrs Ip (Chief Executive Officer, Greater China, United Overseas Bank Limited, Title Sponsor of season opening concert, Mrs Christine Ip), ladies and gentlemen,
 
     It gives me great pleasure to join you here at the 2022/23 Season Opening Concert of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartiest congratulations to HK Phil on launching another season of enchanting programmes.
      
     HK Phil is one of the leading orchestras in Asia and has earned international acclaim and reputation. We are so proud of HK Phil's achievements in elevating the artistic level and cultivating a captivating arts scene in Hong Kong over the years, contributing to making Hong Kong a hub for arts and cultural exchanges between China and the rest of the world.
      
     The newly established Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau has consolidated the policy portfolios of arts and culture, creative industries, sports and tourism into one single bureau. We believe that the new structure can facilitate closer co-operation and mutual support among the relevant sectors, and the synergy effects will bring the arts and culture industry to new heights.
      
     In his important speech delivered on July 1, President Xi Jinping pledged the Central Government's full support for Hong Kong in its effort to maintain its distinctive status and edges, so as to expand and facilitate its exchanges with the world. With the unwavering support from our Country and the concerted efforts of the sector, I am very confident that Hong Kong's arts and cultural scene will continue to thrive in the future.
      
     Once again, I wish the HK Phil another season of wonderful performance. And for everyone here tonight, a delightful evening. Thank you.

Ends/Friday, September 9, 2022
Issued at HKT 20:46

NNNN