(vii) to form an economic cooperation committee with the
Publicity
Keidanren and Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industr
to promote economic relations between Japan and
Hong Kong.
Information Services Department and International
Public Relations Co. Ltd. were responsible for the publicity
efforts and arrangements in Hong Kong and Japan.
H.E. the Governor and the Mission gave a press
conference in the Nippon Press Club on 22 November 1978.
The Press Statement (Appendix III) gave a resume of the
objectives and activities of the Mission in proposing to
Japanese Government and industrial leaders a new direction
for the future development of economic ties between Hong
Kong and Japan.
Other press interviews with H.E. the Governor and
members of the Mission were also arranged
at which
individual views on the purposes and achievements of the
Mission were raised.
On return of the Mission, Sir Y.K. Kan gave a
press conference and issued a Press Statement (Appendix IV).
Observations and Conclusions
The Mission received an enthusiastic and warm
reception from all quarters in the public and private sectors
The Japanese were well briefed and prepared to respond
positively on subjects raised by Mission members. The
trade associations in particular had useful suggestions to
make on improvements of economic relations between Japan
and Hong Kong. There were indications of a real and serious
interest in the trade and industrial investment opportunities
and potential which Hong Kong had to offer. It was clear
from discussions with Japanese Ministers and officials
/that
Pare 6
that there was no official impediment to the development of
closer economic relations.
The Mission seems to have prepared the way for
closer Japan/Hong Kong economic relations; but real progress
will depend upon active follow up.
kecommendations
The Assion recommends that the Hong Kong Trade
Development Council and the Trade Industry and Customs
Department should collaborate jointly to follow-up the
suggestions received by the Mission and to further develop
the links established in the public and private sectors.