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In view of the vital importance of MFN renewal to Hong Kong, Miss Yue will leave for Washington DC tomorrow (Sunday) to lobby US officials and Congressmen on renewal.
"MFN renewal is a crucial element in the continued economic development of Hong Kong, particularly at this critical phase of the transition. We will do everything we can to get our message across," said Miss Yue.
This will be Miss Yue's first visit to the United States after taking up her portfolio as Secretary for Trade and Industry last November.
During her visit, Miss Yue will meet US Trade Representative, Mickey Kantor; the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, Laura Tyson; and call on the Chairmen of several Congressional committees and sub-committees to apprise them of the severe damage to Hong Kong in case of non-renewal of China's MFN status.
Miss Yue will also attend the Hong Kong - US and US - Hong Kong Economic Co-operation Committees Plenary Session to be held in Washington DC on Friday (March 15).
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Miss Yue will be back in Hong Kong on March 17.
Lady Youde presents awards to 850 students
A total of 850 students were granted awards and scholarships under the Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund.
Presenting the awards to them today (Saturday), Lady Youde said: "Today we are meeting some of the best Hong Kong students who have succeeded in winning the Sir Edward Youde Awards against very strong competition.
"I am sure you will join me in congratulating our scholars, fellows and award winners on their success and thanking their parents, school principals and teachers.