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Financial Secretary Stresses Importance to Promote Image of Hong Kong
The Financial Secretary Antony Leung Monday stressed the importance of promoting the image of Hong Kong Dragon as an instantly recognizable symbol in much the same way as Canada's maple leaf, or the red rose of England.
"I hope that when you see the dragon and think of Hong Kong you will understand what we stand for and represent: a progressive, free and stable society, a place of opportunity; a community and economy that aims for the highest quality in all it does," Leung said at the launch of Brand Hong Kong in London June 25 (London time).
"We must work hard to preserve and safeguard our identity under the 'One Country, Two Systems' concept and the guiding principles of the Basic Law," he said. "Hong Kong is in a unique position to play a special role in the continuing development and opening up of our country, as well as enhance our position as a hub for international trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region," he added.
Leung said that underpinning all of the efforts is an unwavering commitment to the foundations of the success: the rule of law, a level playing field, a clean and efficient administration and the free flow of information.
He said that he was pleased to note that Fitch, the international rating agency, has upgraded Hong Kong's long-term foreign currency rating to AA- from A+ on Monday. "We hope that other rating agencies will review our ratings positively," he said.
Leung said that Hong Kong is now approaching another turning point in its remarkable history, facing great challenges as well as enormous opportunities arising from China's impending accession to the World Trade Organization.
Brand Hong Kong is not a quick fix, nor a flash in the pan, but it is a serious, concerted and long-term effort grounded in considerable research, he said.
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