Speech by FS at online celebration of 73rd Israel Independence Day (English only)
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Consul General (Consul General of the State of Israel in Hong Kong, Mrs Ahuva Spieler), distinguished guests, friends of Israel,
I'm delighted to offer my congratulations to the great State of Israel on its 73rd Independence Day.
Our two economies, our two peoples, have much in common. Most notably, we share an entrepreneurial spirit built on resilience, adaptability and hard-won success.
Hong Kong has long admired Israel's innovation and technology prowess. And there is much we can learn from you. That was central to my business mission to Israel, in September 2018.
Hong Kong has much to offer as well. We remain your fast-track business bridge to the Mainland.
And China's 14th Five-Year Plan deepens our role in the nation's progress and expands our opportunities. That, in turn, opens up fresh prospects for Israel and the Israeli companies that work with us.
While COVID-19 has, for the moment, blunted our ties, I am confident that Hong Kong and Israel will be back to mutually rewarding business in short order. And for the long haul.
My congratulations once again to the people of Israel on your nation's 73rd Independence Day.
Thank you.
Ends/Thursday, April 15, 2021
Issued at HKT 16:49
Issued at HKT 16:49
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