Speech by FS at Palace of Champions: Fencing for Spirit Exhibition Match (with photos/video)
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Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng (Deputy 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), Director Liu Songlin (Director-General of the Social Work Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Acting Consul General (Acting Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr Benjamin Hubin), Vincent (Chairman of the executive committee of the GDCD Association and Legislative Council Member, Mr Vincent Cheng), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Bonsoir. It is a real pleasure to join you all tonight at the magnificent Hong Kong Palace Museum for what is truly a historic occasion — the first-ever world-class fencing exhibition held at this iconic cultural landmark.
Tonight, this extraordinary venue is being reimagined — not only as a home to treasured artefacts and rich heritage, but also as a vibrant stage for athletic excellence. This seamless integration of sports and culture sends a powerful message: that athletic mastery, like a fine work of art, reflects discipline, passion, skills and beauty.
This evening's fencing showcase also brings back fond memories of the Paris Olympics, where the fencing matches were staged under the grandeur of the Grand Palais. We are reminded of the pride and glory brought to Hong Kong by our elite fencers — Ka Long (Cheung Ka-long), Vivian (Vivian Kong), and many others. Their achievements have inspired a generation of young athletes, and I'm confident that tonight will spark even more dreams and passion for this elegant and powerful sport.
And tonight's celebration goes beyond sport. Just now we enjoyed the music performance by a group of students from the DBS (Diocesan Boys' School). This event indeed deepens the bonds between Hong Kong and France, through the universal languages of sport, music and mutual respect, and adds colour to our vibrant ties already in business, art and fashion.
This fencing exhibition match is also part of a broader celebration leading up to the 15th National Games, which will be co-hosted for the first time by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao this November. With just 75 days to go, preparations are well underway. Hong Kong is honoured to host eight elite competition events, one mass participation event, and to take part in the organisation of two cross-boundary competitions.
In December, we will also co-host the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, reaffirming our commitment to the belief that sports are for everyone.
The Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) Government is working hand in hand with our partners in Guangdong and Macao to deliver a National Games that is simple, safe and wonderful. We want to create an unforgettable experience, not only for the athletes but also for every resident and visitor.
And when I speak of "visitors", they include supporters and spectators not just from our country but also from around the world.
November will be a busy season for Hong Kong, with a series of top-notch MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) events, including the Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit, FinTech Week, the Hong Kong Fashion Fest, the Wine and Spirits Fair, the Hong Kong Maritime Week, and many more. We warmly welcome more international visitors to join us not only for these events but also the National Games, to experience the excitement of top-level competitions while enjoying Hong Kong's cuisine, culture, hospitality and all that our city offers.
Indeed, this is a unique opportunity to showcase the energy and dynamism of both Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, in addition to the immense business opportunities available across this fast-growing region.
Ladies and gentlemen, my heartfelt gratitude to Youth We Go, the Consulate-General of France, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, and all partners and supporting organisations for making this exceptional event possible.
To all our elite fencers tonight — we salute your spirit and skills, and wish you an exhilarating performance.
Let's enjoy the thrilling matches ahead. Thank you very much.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the speech.)
Ends/Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Issued at HKT 20:12
Issued at HKT 20:12
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