Speech by FS at Opening Ceremony of Extravaganza! When Brazil Meets Hong Kong (English only) (with photos/video)
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Deputy CG Mr de Mattos (Deputy Consul-General of the Consulate General of Brazil in Hong Kong, Mr Hervelter de Mattos), Stefan (Chief Executive Officer of the Extravaganza Festival, Dr Stefan Matzinger), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning.
It is a great pleasure to join you today at this fascinating celebration: Extravaganza! When Brazil Meets Hong Kong. With the joyful rhythms of samba echoing along Victoria Harbour, this event brings a refreshing burst of Brazilian spirit to the heart of our city.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Stefan for bringing this world-renowned carnival to Hong Kong for the first time. My thanks also go to the talented Brazilian performers who have travelled across the globe to be here, and to our colleagues in the Government, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and all supporting partners for your good work in making this festival a reality.
Hong Kong is a city of contrasts and connections - where East meets West, tradition meets innovation, and urban energy coexists with nature. Our cultural offerings continue to grow. Consider the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which showcases the richness of Chinese heritage, or M+, which has quickly become a landmark for contemporary visual art in Asia. Or the stunning hiking trails which are just minutes away from the city.
We are also internationally renowned for our culinary scene, with Michelin-starred restaurants and beloved local eateries offering a world of flavours. Besides that, our spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation continues to thrive, making Hong Kong not only a global business hub but a dynamic cultural and creative centre.
To those visiting us - a very warm welcome. Seeing Hong Kong firsthand is the best way to understand that our city is as open, diverse, vibrant and international as ever.
I'm glad that this festival has brought energy and joy to communities across the city, from school visits to lively street performances at our most iconic attractions. You are helping to enrich our cultural landscape and deepen cross-cultural connections.
Looking ahead, we are committed to strengthening Hong Kong's role as Asia's events capital. With the new Kai Tak Sports Park, a world-class infrastructure, we will be hosting a wide range of international events. More than concerts and rugby, we are welcoming a number of top-class football matches there. I certainly hope we can host the Brazilian national football team sometime soon.
Of course, beyond that, it requires imagination, innovation and inspiration to make our city even more attractive to tourists and residents. We need more events like this one, and more joint efforts of the business community, including the tourism, catering and retail sectors to create new experiences for consumers and visitors.
Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you all a joyful and memorable Extravaganza. May this celebration of culture and creativity continue to build lasting bonds between Hong Kong and Brazil, Brazil and Hong Kong.
Thank you very much.
Ends/Friday, June 27, 2025
Issued at HKT 12:20
Issued at HKT 12:20
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