French National Day 2012 Official Reception in Hong Kong
Nearly 900 guests celebrated the French National Day during the official reception held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center (HKCEC). The reception also celebrated the 150th anniversary of the official relationship between France and Hong Kong.
The Honourable Chief Secretary for Administration of HKSAR, Mrs Carrie Lam graced this reception by her presence.
The ceremony started with the French and Chinese national anthems performed by the Hong Kong Police Choir.
Mr Arnaud Barthèlemy, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau then delivered a speech. He mentioned the continuous growth of the French community in Hong Kong and stressed on its dynamics on the business and cultural aspects. Moreover, he insisted on many different kinds of co-operations which linked France and Hong Kong together.
Full version of the speech of the Consul General
During her speech, Mrs Carrie Lam then stressed on the important contribution of France and the French community to Hong Kong. Mr Barthèlemy and Mrs Lam both raised a toast to the friendship between France and Hong Kong.
Full version of the speech of the Chief Secretary for Administration of HKSAR
Officials of the Hong Kong government and the high administrative authorities were present at the ceremony, along with the representatives of Hong Kong business circles, the French companies, the French Chamber of Commerce and the French associations. Apart from Mrs Carrie Lam, some other officials of the Hong Kong government graced the reception by their presence: Mr Lai Tung-kwok, Secretary for Security and Mr Eddie NG Hak-kim, Secretary for Education.
The Consulate General would like to thank its generous sponsors: New World Development Ltd, Pernod Ricard Asia and the Alliance française de Hong Kong.
Some pictures from the ceremony :
More photos on the Consulate’s Facebook page:http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.471487592864239.112218.223804074299260&type=1&l=396100d3ea*]