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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, officiated at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China this evening (December 14).
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Tsang said that the designation of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China was worldwide recognition of our significant geological heritage.
"It also recognises the joint efforts of the Hong Kong community in conserving our precious geo-heritage," he said.
"The uniqueness of our Geopark not only lies in its geological features, but also in its proximity to our metropolitan area."
Mr Tsang added that the internationally iconic Global Geopark status would draw visitors from near and far.
He extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Land and Resources for its signal support of Hong Kong in its nomination for this world-class honour. He also commended the local community, nature conservation groups and the business sector for their contributions to this achievement.
Also officiating at today's ceremony were the Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Land and Resources, Mr Wang Min; the Director-General of the Department of Geological Environment of the Ministry of Land and Resources, Mr Guan Fengjun; representatives of the Global Geopark Network (GGN), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Dr Marie-Luise Frey and Mr Richard Watson; and the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau.
More than 40 guests from overseas and the Mainland also joined the celebration today together with local guests. They included representatives of sister geoparks from different parts of the world, Mainland and overseas geological experts, and representatives of relevant organisations and departments.
To foster a closer relationship with members of the GGN, the Hong Kong Geopark has already entered into sister arrangements with Yangdanshan Global Geopark in the Mainland, Itiogawa Global Geopark in Japan, English Riviera Global Geopark in the United Kingdom, Kanawinka Global Geopark in Australia, and Global Geopark Bergstrasse-Odenwald in Germany. Under the arrangement, these sister geoparks share scientific information and best management practices, collaborate in mutual promotion and arrange training, research and educational exchanges.
A large-scale outdoor multi-media performance took place at the opening ceremony, featuring the uniqueness of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China and combining drama, music, dance, singing and wall projections. It will be replayed tomorrow (December 15) from 7.30pm to 7.50pm and from 8.20pm to 8.40pm. Members of the public are welcome to enjoy the performance at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza.
The Hong Kong Geopark became a national geopark in November 2009. It was officially renamed as the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China after becoming a member of the GGN, which is supported by UNESCO, in September 2011. With the inclusion of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China, the GGN now has 87 members in 27 countries throughout Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, the Middle East and North America.
The Hong Kong Global Geopark of China is located in Sai Kung and the north-eastern part of Hong Kong, covering a total area of about 50 square kilometres. Various facilities have been provided for visitors to the Geopark to learn more about geo-features and geo-conservation, including a visitor centre, four geo-heritage centres and 10 geo-tour routes (including both land and sea routes). Since its opening, it has drawn over 1.5 million visitors.
Ends/Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:46
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