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The Secretary for Security, Mr Lai Tung-kwok, concluded his visit to Canada in Vancouver today (November 6, Vancouver time).
Earlier this morning, Mr Lai attended a breakfast reception co-organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto) and the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association.
Speaking to the representatives of business, professional and youth bodies in Vancouver, Mr Lai outlined the latest economic development in Hong Kong, including the business opportunities brought by the new Silk Road Economic Belt, 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
He also briefed them on the various admission schemes including the newly launched "Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents". He said the second generation of Hong Kong emigrants might not have Hong Kong permanent resident status and therefore could not freely return to work in Hong Kong.
"However, given their family ties with Hong Kong and their knowledge of foreign languages and cultures, we hope to facilitate their return with this new scheme," he said.
Mr Lai also pointed out that they would not need to have secured a job before coming back, and could also bring their family with them, similar to other schemes.
In the afternoon, Mr Lai proceeded to the University of British Columbia to meet with a group of students including those with families originating from Hong Kong. He briefed them on the various talent admission schemes and encouraged them to seize the growing opportunities in Hong Kong.
Mr Lai also paid a courtesy call on the Acting Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Vancouver, Mr Fan Xiaodong. He thanked the Acting Consul General for providing consular assistance to Hong Kong residents in need in Vancouver.
Upon arrival in Vancouver yesterday (November 5, Vancouver time), Mr Lai attended a dinner reception with Hong Kong community in Vancouver. He took the opportunity to update them the latest development in Hong Kong and introduce the talent admission schemes.
Mr Lai will depart Vancouver in the early morning on November 7 and will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (November 8).
Ends/Saturday, November 7, 2015
Issued at HKT 13:04
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