Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong Gala Dinner this evening (June 5):
Consul General Christile Drulhe (Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macao, Mrs Christile Drulhe), Rebecca (Honorary President of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong, Mrs Rebecca Silli), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Bonsoir. Good evening, everyone.
Two weeks ago, I was in Paris. I wandered into a bistro, and the owner – upon knowing that I was from Hong Kong – broke into a smile and said, “I heard Hong Kong is a major buyer of French fine wine. Now that you’re in Paris, you should have a few more glasses to pair with our delicacies.” The place was gloriously noisy, full of laughter and warmth.
We see that ambition at work: in seeking new trading partners and growth opportunities; in channelling savings into technology, innovation, digital transformation and green transition; and in deepening collaboration with China and the broader Asian region.
I thank the French Chamber for 40 years of deep engagement with and support to Hong Kong. I wish the Chamber continued success, and French wine and style as excellent as ever.