Vice-Premier Li Keqiang visits HKMA (with photos/videos)
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     The Vice-Premier of the State Council, Mr Li Keqiang, on his second day in Hong Kong, visited the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) this afternoon (August 17), accompanied by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang.

     On arrival, Mr Li was met by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang; the Secretary for Development, Mrs Carrie Lam; and the Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Norman Chan. While touring the exhibition area at the Information Centre, Mr Li was briefed on the HKMA's work in maintaining monetary and banking stability.

     On the 56th floor of the HKMA offices, Mr John C Tsang and Mrs Lam briefed Mr Li on the overall infrastructural development and town planning in Hong Kong, including the Kai Tak Development Area. Through the glass curtain wall, Mr Li had a good view of some ongoing infrastructural projects and Victoria Harbour.
 
     Mr Li later visited the Vocational Training Council (VTC)'s Chinese Cuisine Training Institute and Hospitality Industry Training and Development Centre in Pok Fu Lam. He was greeted by the Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen, and was briefed by VTC chairman Mr Andrew Leung on the vocational training system in Hong Kong and the work of the VTC.

     Mr Li then watched trainees practising Western and Chinese cooking and listened attentively to an introduction on wine tasting. After that, the trainees gave him a demonstration on bartending as well as some tips on Western appetiser and Chinese dim sum. He said dim sum is an indispensable part of Hong Kong's reputation as a gourmet paradise. He also enjoyed a taste of Hong Kong-style milk tea.

     Lastly, saying that "opportunity is open to all", Mr Li encouraged the trainees to develop their full potential through the various channels available to them.

Ends/Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:56

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