July 6, 2024
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) is hosting the subject exhibition. The opening ceremony was held this afternoon, officiated by Chief Secretary for Administration Mr. Eric Chan Kwok-ki,
Deputy Commissioner, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr. Pan Yun-dong, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau Ms. Christile Drulhe, Executive Director of Sino Group Mr. Victor Tin Sio-un, Director of Swire Group Mr. Augustus Tang, Professor Tam Siu-cheung, DAB Chairperson The Hon Gary Chan Hak-kan, DAB Party Affairs Advisor The Hon Starry Lee Wai-king and Tam Yiu-chung, DAB Vice Chairperson and Chairperson of the Liaison Committee The Hon Holden Chow and DAB Vice Chairpersons The Hon. Elizabeth Quat and Ben Chan.
Chief Secretary for Administration Mr. Eric Chan remarked that the exhibition holds triple significance: it highlights Hong Kong's unique position under "One Country, Two Systems" as a gateway connecting China with the world, providing citizens and visitors with an accessible understanding of how China and France have established a comprehensive strategic partnership; it promotes the relationship between Hong Kong and France, drawing lessons from the mutual understanding and cooperation between China and France in areas such as trade and culture to deepen connections; and it expands patriotic education, helping citizens better understand China's diplomatic achievements and thus strengthen national identity.
Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau Ms. Christile Drulhe stated that Chinese President Xi Jin-ping’s state visit to France in May this year further deepened bilateral relations. She also thanked the DAB for organizing the exhibition to celebrate this significant day marking the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations.
In his speech, DAB Chairperson Gary Chan noted that China and France have continuously cooperated in social and cultural exchanges, with Hong Kong serving as a meeting point for Eastern and Western cultures. He highlighted the "Le French May" art festival held annually in Hong Kong as one of the largest cultural events in Asia.
Gary Chan added that post-reform, one of DAB's key focuses has been "Connecting the World." The exhibition aims to contribute to Sino-French people-to-people exchanges. He emphasized the educational significance of the exhibition, noting that a group of primary school students from A.D. & F.D. of Pok Oi Hospital Mrs. Cheng Yam On School, led by their principal, were invited to attend the event, allowing the younger generation to learn about Chinese and French history.
After the opening ceremony, the officiating guests listened to a presentation by Holden Chow, Vice Chairman of DAB, on key exhibits. These included early studies of the Chinese ancient masterpiece“Classic of Changes”(易經) by French missionary Joachim Bouvet, showcasing the influence of ancient Chinese philosophy on subsequent European scientific development, and the presentation of French state gift to China in 2019 where French President Emmanuel Macron presented a French edition of the 1688 “The Introduction to the Analects” to President Xi Jin-ping.
Holden Chow added that over 150 guests attended today’s opening ceremony, which positively demonstrates Hong Kong’s role in connecting with the world and showcasing the history of Sino-French cultural exchanges to international visitors.
“The 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of China-France Diplomatic Relations - Evolving Cities: Beijing & Paris" exhibition is organized by the DAB and Professor Tam Siu-cheung, with special thanks to Sino Group, the Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation, and Swire Group as co-organizers, as well as full support from Sun Hung Kai Properties, Central Plaza, and Mr. Shum Mak-ling.
The exhibition features over 80 exhibits, including ancient maps of Beijing and Paris, historical photos of China and France, and an antique music box from the reign of Napoleon IV. The exhibition runs from today until August 4th on the 46th floor of Central Plaza and is free to the public.
“The 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of China-France Diplomatic Relations Evolving Cities: Beijing & Paris” exhibition | |
July 6 – Aug 4, 2024 | |
10AM – 7PM | |
46/F., Central Plaza, 18 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong | |
Organizer | DAB Prof. Tam Siu-cheung |
Co-organizer | Sino Group Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation Swire Group |
Acknowledgement | Sun Hung Kai Properties Central Plaza Mr. Shum Mak-ling |
Fee | Free |
Enquiries | 3582 1111 |
Group reservation |
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