kakase/hk_gov_press_release huggingface dataset:
CE congratulates elected members of LegCo Election Committee constituency by-election
18.12.2022

​The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (December 18) congratulated the elected members of the 2022 Legislative Council (LegCo) Election Committee constituency by-election and made the following statement: The 2022 LegCo Election Committee constituency by-election has concluded successfully. On behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, I extend my congratulations to the four elected members. This by-election is the first LegCo by-election since the electoral system of the HKSAR was improved to implement the "patriots administering Hong Kong" principle. The HKSAR Government organised the by-election in accordance with the law, providing patriots aspiring to participate in policy debates with a fair, just and open election. I hope that the four newly elected members will assume their duties with due diligence, and, under the executive-led system and the "patriots administering Hong Kong" principle, create and develop an environment conducive for constructive policy debates and join hands with the government in solving different problems together. The government team and I will continue to strengthen the good executive-legislative relationship and maintain amiable interactions and co-operation with members of the LegCo, with a view to charting a brighter tomorrow for Hong Kong and our people. I also express my gratitude to colleagues from within and outside the Government who have played a part in organising this by-election. Their efforts have helped to enable a smooth and orderly election. Ends/Sunday, December 18, 2022 Issued at HKT 13:55 NNNN
Transcript of remarks by CE at media session before ExCo
13.12.2022

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at a media session before the Executive Council (ExCo) meeting today (December 13): Reporter: Good morning Mr Lee. With the Vaccine Pass, masks and gathering limit, Hong Kong still appears to be one of the world's last zero COVID holdouts as China is rapidly loosening the restrictions. Since we have a higher vaccination rate, how do we still justify such measures? And if we do loosen the rules, should the border reopening be one of the last things to be considered if cases are increasing there? Second, the security chief made world headlines yesterday with his comments on Google's anthem results last night. Is the Government aware of the "Streisand effect" in that such continual statements could be helping not only promote the protest song, but boost its presence in search results? And will the Government buy Google ads to fix that issue? Chief Executive: First of all, any measures that we introduce to deal with COVID is based on actual figures, data and risk assessment. That has always been the policy and this is also the reason why I made the announcement about the two new decisions just now. It's based on data, based on actual situation, and based on risk assessments. The second thing regarding resumption of normal travel with the Mainland, of course, I take this close to my heart, and I'll do everything that can facilitate it. But we also must be aware that decisions made are similarly based on actual situation, and also data and risk assessment in cities in the Mainland. This is a process I went through, and this is a process that I will, of course, give all my assistance to facilitate going through. But we have to look at data and the risks involved. I think all people want to have less restrictions as much as possible, while ensuring activities, socially and economically, can proceed as much as possible. In regard to the inaccurate playing of our national anthem, we take it very seriously because national anthem represents a country, it represents the people, it represents dignity. Any organisation, any responsible organisation, should act in such a way to ensure that the national anthem is played correctly, to respect, first of all, each country's national anthem, to respect each country's law, and also to respect the people of that country. I think that is a universal principle. And if any company is in any way responsible, he has that moral obligation that we will pursue and will continue to see what other things we will do. So definitely, we will send our letters to Google again, to pursue this matter. I also note that Google has agreed to remove a person's privacy or private data according to judgment of European court (Court of Justice of the European Union). So there are ways to do it. It's a matter whether a company acts responsibly and respects the importance of national anthem in the global context. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.) Ends/Tuesday, December 13, 2022 Issued at HKT 14:28 NNNN
CE opens Construction Innovation Expo 2022
13.12.2022

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, officiated at the grand opening ceremony of the Construction Innovation Expo 2022 (CIExpo) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this afternoon (December 13). Jointly organised by the Development Bureau (DEVB), the Construction Industry Council (CIC), and the Centre of Science and Technology Industrial Development (CSTID) of the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development (MOHURD), the five-day CIExpo features four key themes, namely, "Automation", "Digitalisation", "Industrialisation", and "Modernisation", attracting some 170 exhibitors and over 14 000 visitors, comprising industry practitioners, students and young people from local, Mainland and overseas organisations. About 60 experts, academics, government officials and entrepreneurs will share their experiences on Modular Integrated Construction (MiC), digitalisation, safety and health, and green construction at various conferences as well as the Global Construction Summit and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Construction Summit. Addressing the ceremony, Mr Lee said, "Construction is Hong Kong's fifth-largest employer contributing more than 4 per cent of our GDP. Hong Kong's annual construction volume is expected to grow to more than HK$300 billion, equivalent to around US$38 billion, in the years ahead." Noting the importance of innovation to construction, Mr Lee highlighted the two memorandums of understanding on industry innovation signed by the CIC at the ceremony. One was signed with the CSTID of the MOHURD to target innovative construction technology, and the other one with Huawei to promote technological exchange in construction. Mr Lee stressed that the Government spares no efforts in enhancing quantity, quality, speed and efficiency of the public housing construction to boost the supply of affordable housing, and added that the DEVB is establishing a cross-departmental steering committee on MiC, working to strengthen the MiC supply chain and building collaboration with other cities in the GBA. Mr Lee also stated that the DEVB is working with the industry on the education of emerging technologies, boosting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education in post-secondary institutions, as well as in primary and secondary schools, so as to help nurture a new generation of adept and tech-savvy practitioners for the industry. Ends/Tuesday, December 13, 2022 Issued at HKT 17:30 NNNN
Various sectors of HKSAR observe mourning in silence for Former President Jiang Zemin
6.12.2022

The memorial service for the Former President of the People's Republic of China, Mr Jiang Zemin, was held solemnly at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing at 10am today (December 6), with the Central Government Offices holding a live broadcast of the service. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, together with the Principal Officials, Members of the Executive Council, and directorate officers of bureaux and departments watched the memorial service and observed three minutes of mourning in silence during the service to express deep condolences to President Jiang. All government bureaux and departments also made arrangements for their staff to observe a three-minute mourning in silence during the memorial service. Government vessels of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department; the Customs and Excise Department; the Correctional Services Department; the Environmental Protection Department; the Fire Services Department; the Department of Health; the Hong Kong Police Force, the Immigration Department and the Marine Department conducted three minutes of sounding their horns off the shore of Central district during the mourning in silence of the memorial service. In addition, the 18 District Offices made arrangements to enable members of the public to watch the live broadcast of the memorial service and observe the mourning in silence at designated locations across the territory. National flags and regional flags displayed at all government departments (including offices outside Hong Kong) are flown at half staff today. National flags and regional flags displayed at main government premises, the Legislative Council and the Judiciary have been flown at half staff since December 1 as a symbol of mourning. Government officials will not attend any public entertainment activities today. All entertainment and celebration activities organised or funded by the Government today have been postponed or cancelled as appropriate. Ends/Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Issued at HKT 14:42 NNNN
CE reviews Immigration Department&apos;s Passing-out Parade
2.12.2022

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, attended the Passing-out Parade of the Immigration Department (ImmD) today (December 2) to review 167 officers on parade, including 70 Immigration Officers and 97 Immigration Assistants. Before the start of the parade, all persons stood up and observed one minute of silence to express deep mourning for the late Former President of the People's Republic of China, Mr Jiang Zemin. The Guard of Honour first assembled to form a dynamic analogue clock during the footdrill performance, then joined the parade smoothly for the smart formation of the Chinese numerals "25". This arrangement symbolised the ImmD's efforts to move with the times and strive for excellence over the past 25 years since Hong Kong's return to the motherland. It was also the first time that all passing-out officers in three respective grand phalanxes marched past the reviewing officer and goose-stepped steadily, with the number of passing-out officers in the Immigration Assistant Phalanx being the highest on record. Moreover, it was the first time for the Immigration Band to include Chinese instruments in the band performance, cultivating a diversified and harmonious atmosphere with Chinese and Western music. In his speech, Mr Lee praised the ImmD for its commitment in promoting social prosperity and stability by diversifying its services with innovative ideas. He remarked that the launch of "Contactless e-Channels" and "e-Visa" had enabled members of the public and passengers to reduce contacts with shared facilities during their access to immigration services, while the promotional vehicles travelling around all 18 districts throughout Hong Kong had made it easy and convenient for people to renew their HKSAR passports in time. Moreover, firearms and anti-riot equipment training courses were organised for immigration service members to enhance the department's law enforcement capabilities. He also mentioned that the Policy Address introduced an array of initiatives to attract enterprises and talents, and the ImmD would play a critical role in implementing these initiatives, including fully supporting the Talents Service Unit and launching the Top Talent Pass Scheme. He believed that the ImmD would remain professional and efficient in assisting to trawl the world for talents and bringing unlimited opportunities to Hong Kong. He also recognised the ImmD's achievements in youth development by nurturing positive young people who not only loved the country and Hong Kong, but also demonstrated the law-abiding awareness, self-discipline and a willingness to serve the community. Lastly, Mr Lee encouraged the passing-out officers to remain steadfast in upholding the constitutional order of the HKSAR set out under the Constitution and the Basic Law, and carry forward the legacy of the ImmD, so as to start a new chapter for Hong Kong, build a brighter future for the country, and thrive in unity on the lasting prosperity of Hong Kong and the realisation of national rejuvenation. Ends/Friday, December 2, 2022 Issued at HKT 21:50 NNNN
CE, Principal Officials of HKSAR Government and ExCo Non-official Members express condolences on passing of late Former President Jiang Zemin
1.12.2022

The Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) set up a mourning hall inside its office building for the late Former President of the People's Republic of China, Mr Jiang Zemin. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (December 1) went there to send condolences and express profound respect for President Jiang on behalf of the HKSAR. Principal Officials of the HKSAR Government and Non-official Members of the Executive Council also paid tribute and expressed profound condolences. Ends/Thursday, December 1, 2022 Issued at HKT 17:03 NNNN
Speech by CE at AsiaGlobal Dialogue 2022
18.11.2022

​Following is the video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the AsiaGlobal Dialogue 2022 today (November 18): President and Vice-Chancellor Zhang Xiang (President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong), Dr Victor Fung (Chairman of the Asia Global Institute), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, It is my pleasure to speak to you at this year's AsiaGlobal Dialogue. Inaugurated in 2012, this remarkable platform brings Asian perspectives to global issues and celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. As always, this year's theme "Recovery and Reformation: Asia in a Changing Global Economy" is timely and appropriate. It is so timely, in fact, that I am in Bangkok at this very moment, at this year's APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Economic Leaders' Meeting, to discuss the global economy and Asia's economic recovery with economic leaders throughout the region. Today, the global economy is facing challenges we have not seen in decades. Inflation in advanced economies has hit a multi-decade high, and for the first time in a long time, we are asking ourselves how high, rather than how low, interest rates will go. Geopolitical tensions have added fuel to the fire. In October, the IMF (International Monetary Fund) forecast that global economic growth would slow from 3.2 per cent in 2022 to 2.7 per cent in 2023. For advanced economies, growth is expected to slow visibly from 2.4 per cent to 1.1 per cent. But there is a more optimistic picture here in Asia. In the same forecast, the IMF projected that growth in emerging and developing Asia would accelerate from 4.4 per cent in 2022 to 4.9 per cent in 2023, bolstered by growth in the Mainland. I am confident that Asia is a bright spot in the global economy, and will be an abundant source of economic opportunities in the years ahead. Hong Kong is the freest economy in the world. Under the "one country, two systems" principle, we are blessed with the unique advantage of enjoying strong national support while being closely connected with the world. We endeavour to consolidate our traditional strengths and develop budding industries like innovation and technology, as well as arts and culture. I know that the panels today will look at the global economic outlook in more detail, before moving on to specific opportunities and challenges that have been on everyone's mind recently. Promoting green and sustainable growth is part and parcel of building a better future for the region, as is addressing inequality and achieving common prosperity. Hong Kong is eager to join hands with other economies in the region in rebuilding confidence in regional economic development, and in delivering a more open, reliable and predictable trade and investment environment. Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you a fruitful dialogue ahead. Thank you very much. Ends/Friday, November 18, 2022 Issued at HKT 10:15 NNNN
Speech by CE at opening ceremony of new Sikh Temple
8.11.2022

​Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the opening ceremony of the new Sikh Temple today (November 8): Mr Nirmal Singh (President of the Sikh Temple, Hong Kong), Dr Harry Banga (Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Sikh Temple, Hong Kong), Mr Gurdev Ghalib (Convenor of the Building Committee of the Sikh Temple, Hong Kong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, It is my great honour to join you here today for the much anticipated grand opening of the new Sikh Temple in Hong Kong. I would like to start by offering my sincere congratulations to all who have been involved in this spectacular achievement. This impressive building is of significant importance to the local Sikh community. Sikhs laid down roots in Hong Kong in as early as the 19th century. Recognising the need for a place where the growing community could gather, local Sikhs built the city’s first and only Sikh temple right where we are now. After decades of wear and tear, the old building neared the end of its service life, and redevelopment began in 2017. I am sure all of us are delighted to see the successful completion of the new temple today, and every bit of the five-year wait has been worthwhile. With the temple revamped, Khalsa Diwan Hong Kong will have better hardware to provide a diverse range of services for Sikhs and non-Sikhs in Hong Kong, from religious services and educational programmes, to sports events and cultural activities. Very much like its Langar community kitchen, which provides some 5 000 free meals a week to the visitors, the temple is sure to continue opening its doors to the wider community, carrying on the Sikhs’ active role in contributing to the city. Hong Kong is known for being an open and inclusive city. The protection of freedom of religious belief is enshrined in the Basic Law. Speaking today at this momentous occasion for our Sikh community, I would like to reaffirm to you all the Government’s commitment to building a caring and inclusive Hong Kong for all. Hong Kong is the home of all its people, regardless of race, religious belief, family background and occupation. Harmony is what brings success to our home. That is why I have dedicated a chapter in my Policy Address on working together to safeguard harmony and stability. We will set up District Services and Community Care Teams across the territory in due course to promote community building through organising caring activities such as visiting the elderly. We will also enhance our efforts in public healthcare, elderly care and youth development. On behalf of the Hong Kong SAR Government, I would like to express my appreciation to Khalsa Diwan Hong Kong for its sterling contribution to the city over the years. The new temple heralds a new chapter for the local Sikh community, and is set to benefit Hong Kong’s Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike. Congratulations once again on the opening of the new Sikh Temple. I wish you all very good health. Thank you. Ends/Tuesday, November 8, 2022 Issued at HKT 16:30 NNNN
CE expresses sorrow over passing of Former President Jiang Zemin
30.11.2022

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (November 30) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Former President of the People's Republic of China, Mr Jiang Zemin. "Being the core of the Communist Party of China's third generation of central collective leadership and the principal founder of the Theory of Three Represents, President Jiang was widely recognised as an outstanding leader with high prestige. He broke new grounds for the country's comprehensive reform and opening up, implemented the basic policies of law-based governance of the country and upheld the principles of 'peaceful reunification of China' and 'one country, two systems', making great contributions to the realisation of the smooth return of Hong Kong and Macao," Mr Lee said. "I, together with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, will continue to spare no efforts for the full and faithful implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle to ensure Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability, contributing to the realisation of national rejuvenation," "On behalf of the HKSAR, I extend my deepest condolences to President Jiang's family." Ends/Wednesday, November 30, 2022 Issued at HKT 20:53 NNNN
CE meets Director General of World Intellectual Property Organization
30.11.2022

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (November 30) met the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr Daren Tang. Mr Lee welcomed the visit by Mr Tang and the high-level delegation from WIPO to Hong Kong to attend the Business of Intellectual Property (IP) Asia Forum, to be held on December 1 and 2, which is one of the signature events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The National 14th Five-Year Plan supports Hong Kong to develop into a regional IP trading centre. Mr Lee said the HKSAR Government was committed to protecting IP rights and promoting IP trading, in line with the national strategy to develop IP, and complementing Hong Kong's vision to develop a knowledge-based economy, become an international innovation and technology centre and support the development of cultural and creative industries. The HKSAR Government would leverage the institutional advantages of Hong Kong's legal and IP protection systems to further strengthen Hong Kong's role as a regional IP trading centre. Mr Lee paid tribute to the WIPO for playing a pivotal role in promoting and facilitating global IP development, and said he hoped that with the support of the Central Government, the HKSAR Government and WIPO would continue to maintain close communication and explore more co-operation to promote IP development. Ends/Wednesday, November 30, 2022 Issued at HKT 15:48 NNNN
Transcript of remarks by CE at media session before ExCo
29.11.2022

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at a media session before the Executive Council (ExCo) meeting today (November 29): Reporter: Good morning, Mr Lee. The first question is whether this interpretation of the National Security Law and the resulting adjournment of Jimmy Lai's trial is unfair to him, as the defendant has expectations that the trial will begin on Thursday (December 1), and he has been arrested for two years. Will there also be an extra NPCSC (Standing Committee of the National People's Congress) meeting to deal with this issue soon since the next session will be in December? And the second question is, which article of the National Security Law is the Government asking Beijing to interpret? Does this essentially amount to adding a new article to the National Security Law or amending the law? Thank you. Chief Executive: I have made the request in my report to the Central People's Government for interpretation of the National Security Law to address the question I have already explained. It will be up to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress to decide how to go about it. There are procedures, as far as I know, about meetings to be conducted by the NPCSC. This is a matter for the NPCSC. How eventually, as a result of my request, the interpretation will be made, of course, is the prerogative and the absolute authority of the NPCSC. At the present moment, I'm only requesting for an interpretation of the law to address my question. How eventually that interpretation will be, will be a decision by the NPCSC. I will leave it to the decision of the NPCSC. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.) Ends/Tuesday, November 29, 2022 Issued at HKT 13:12 NNNN