Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has carried out the groundwork for a $100 million Europe institute on campus. It would be an umbrella for research on science, technology and management with European organisations, said director of international programmes Loretta Pang Sze-mui. 'Up to now Hong Kong has had few direct contacts with Europe, other than Britain. We feel it's important to establish links with European institutes and companies,' she said. 'We hope to attract universities, research institutes and multinational companies to join us in applied research and development programmes. 'The institute would be their local foothold.' A steering committee - formed by representatives of European diplomatic missions in Hong Kong, a local businessman and university officials - is leading the project, which targets major economic powers such as Germany and France. 'We have received many positive responses, especially from Germany,' Ms Pang said.
