Official visits fortify relations with SAR
In May, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Henri and Robert Goebbels, Minister of Economic Affairs, with 17 delegates from the government and private sectors, visited Hong Kong to promote the euro.
In early June, the Prime Minister, Jean-Claude Juncker, accompanied by a government assembly, arrived in Hong Kong for the signing of an air-service agreement with the SAR Government.
Both delegations were officially received by Tung Chee-hwa, Chief Executive of the SAR. I believe these visits have further strengthened the relationship between Luxembourg and Hong Kong which have many similarities.
Geographically, they are small in terms of area size. Economically, they play prominent roles as major financial and business centres within their respective regions.
Furthermore, Luxembourg is considered the gateway into Europe, similar to Hong Kong being the doorway into China.
Presently, Luxembourg is preparing to lead the way for the implementation of the euro to be launched next year. The country has been a keen supporter of the integration of European communities and a firm promoter of international peace and security.
Favourable effects of the euro will be felt across all regions, especially those countries in the Economic and Monetary Union.
Today, we celebrate the National Day of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. May both Luxembourg and Hong Kong continue to cherish prosperity and stability for a long time to come.
JAMES Z. M. KUNG, Honorary Consul-General, Luxembourg
