XN000022-1996-04-13+14 — Page 2

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STI welcomes Kantor's nomination as Commerce Secretary

The Secretary for Trade and Industry, Miss Denise Yue, today (Saturday) welcomed the nomination of Ambassador Mickey Kantor as the US Secretary for Commerce following the tragic death of Secretary Ron Brown.

She also welcomed the appointment of Ambassador Charlene Barshefsky as the acting US Trade Representative.

Commenting on the announcements, Miss Yue said: "Both Ambassador Kantor and Ambassador Barshefsky know Hong Kong and China well. They should ensure maximum continuity of policy in our bilateral relations."

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Hong Kong names representatives to APEC Business Advisory Council

The Government announced today (Saturday) the appointment of three Hong Kong representatives to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Advisory Council.

They are Dr Victor Fung Kwok-king, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Asia Capital Limited; Mr Gordon Wu Ying-sheng, Managing Director of Hopewell Holdings Limited; and Mr Victor Lo Chung-wing, Chairman and Chief Executive of Gold Peak Industries (Holdings) Limited.

The Secretary for Trade and Industry, Miss Denise Yue said: "We aim to foster closer co-operation and involvement of the business sector in APEC activities."

"With their rich business experience, Dr Fung, Mr Wu and Mr Lo will definitely make significant contributions to this Council."

Last November, APEC decided to establish a Business Advisory Council to provide insight and counsel to APEC. The Council has two main functions: to advise on the implementation of the Osaka Action Agenda adopted by APEC to achieve free trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific, as well as on other business priorities; and to respond to APEC's requests for advice on business-related issues.

The Council will convene its inaugural meeting in June 1996, and will report its work to APEC Economic Leaders and Ministers.

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