The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, continued his visit to Paris, France, yesterday (September 5, Paris time).
Mr Yeung explored for stronger collaboration between the two places on creative industry and design with the President-Executive of SAFI (parent company of Maison&Objet), Mr Philippe Delhomme, as well as the Partnerships and Special Events Manager of Maison&Objet and Paris Design Week, Ms Audrey Joly, in the morning. Mr Yeung said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has clear policy on development of cultural and creative industries to support Hong Kong as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan. He expressed hope that Hong Kong and Paris would establish close co-operation, setting up an exchange platform for designers on both sides.
Mr Yeung later officiated at the opening ceremony of Hong Kong Design On Stage in the venue. In his opening remark, he said that with the theme "Improved Urban Lifestyle - Conscious Design", Hong Kong Design On Stage showcases innovate ideas of 10 Hong Kong designers. The exhibition will be shown in Hong Kong this December for the talented Hong Kong designers to gain more exposure to the industry and showcase the power of Hong Kong's design.
Mr Yeung at noon witnessed the signing of memorandum between the Assistant Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries, Mrs Lowell Cho, and Mr Philippe Delhomme to establish long term co-operation in creative industry and design, with a view to enhancing Hong Kong's reputation as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
Mr Yeung then met with the Executive President of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, Mr Pascal Morand, to learn about the development of fashion industry in France. Mr Yeung also briefed Mr Pascal Morand on Hong Kong Fashion Design Week and extended an invitation to them to join the event. Moreover, Mr Yeung introduced to Mr Pascal Morand Hong Kong's recent development as a mega events capital. With France's long history and high reputation as a fashion capital, representatives from Hong Kong and France exchanged views to strengthen collaboration in organising mega events on both sides.
In his subsequence visit to the Paris Design Week, Mr Yeung learned about how the annual event creates a platform for French and emerging international designers to showcase their talent.
Mr Yeung today (September 6, Paris time) will continue his visit in Paris and call on the Chinese Ambassador to France, Mr Lu Shaye, and brief him on Hong Kong's latest development in culture, sports and tourism.