Speech by CE at Opening Ceremony of Chinese Culture Festival 2026 (with video)
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Let me now say a few words to our English-speaking friends.
Good evening. I am delighted to welcome you to the Opening Reception of the Chinese Culture Festival 2026. Let us savour the timeless charm of Chinese culture together.
Chinese culture is distinguished by its long history, vast scope and profound depth. Hong Kong is rooted in Chinese culture and enjoys a global vision. Under the "one country, two systems" principle, our city connects closely with both the Mainland and the world. We have wide-ranging experience in cultural exchanges. And we are determined to better integrate into national development, extending the reach of Chinese culture, presenting a credible and appealing China to the world, while telling the good stories of our country and Hong Kong.
To do this effectively requires sustained effort - it is not a short-term task. The HKSAR Government has formulated the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development. It has set up the Chinese Culture Promotion Office, dedicated to bringing culture into our community and enhancing our people's sense of national identity, belonging and pride.
The Chinese Culture Festival, one of our annual flagship projects, features performances, exhibitions and outreach activities. It makes fine use of Hong Kong's international network, allowing local citizens and overseas visitors alike to experience the historical spirit and contemporary flair of Chinese civilisation.
The past two editions of the Festival were warmly received, attracting over 1.8 million participants. And the "Chinese Culture for All: A Special Performance Series" benefited more than 15 000 teachers, students and community members, infusing patriotic education with a lively and dynamic presentation.
"Legends" is the theme of this year's Festival, presenting a rewarding variety of programmes related to Chinese mythology and folktales.
Tonight's opening programme, the dance drama "Lady White Snake", is masterfully produced by the Shanghai Grand Theatre. Drawing from the beloved legend "The Legend of the White Snake", it fuses Western ballet with Chinese classical dance, weaving modern vision with timeless beauty.
Beyond tonight's performance, this year's Chinese Culture Festival presents an inviting selection of Chinese operas and original local works, along with themed exhibitions and community outreach activities. Together, they allow you to appreciate the boundless diversity of Chinese culture.
The Chinese Culture Festival promises to become a cultural bridge connecting Hong Kong with the Mainland, while reaching out to the world.
I wish this year's Chinese Culture Festival great success and its audiences unforgettable performances from beginning to the final curtain call. Thank you.
Ends/Friday, June 12, 2026
Issued at HKT 20:00
Issued at HKT 20:00
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Audio / Video
Speech by CE at Opening Ceremony of Chinese Culture Festival 2026