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version. A large number of free publications such as booklets, leaflets, fact sheets, brochures, posters and government forms are distributed by the division each year. In 2007, the division sold 384 950 government books and miscellaneous printed items. through its sales outlet and online bookstore. Photographs are also sold by the division.

Public Relations Outside Hong Kong Division

The division helps develop and implement the Government's public relations and communications strategy outside Hong Kong, working closely with the Government's Economic and Trade Offices overseas and in the Mainland. Its Overseas Public Relations Sub-division promotes and monitors Hong Kong's image overseas. It is also in close liaison with about 100 foreign media organisations based in Hong Kong, handling press enquiries, disseminating news and arranging interviews. It runs a programme for visiting journalists, produces summaries of overseas reports on Hong Kong and distributes promotional material on Hong Kong worldwide.

The Brand Management Unit is responsible for Brand Hong Kong which is used to promote Hong Kong as Asia's world city through a variety of channels locally, overseas and on the Mainland. The unit, in conjunction with government departments and the private sector, organises activities for international and Mainland audiences. In Hong Kong, it showcases the city's attractions for visitors and the business community.

The Visits and International Conferences Sub-division runs the department's Sponsored Visitors Programme through which opinion formers, political leaders and think-tank members are invited to visit Hong Kong as guests of the Government to enhance their understanding of the Special Administrative Region. The sub-division also arranges programmes for non-sponsored visitors coming to Hong Kong on private trips. In addition, it runs an Overseas Speakers Programme to enhance foreign investors' understanding of the competitive edge and latest developments of Hong Kong. Arrangements are made for senior government officials and prominent local personalities to address targeted audiences abroad.

Promoting Hong Kong Overseas

Europe

The Brussels Economic Trade Office (ETO) organised Chinese Lunar New Year celebratory events in 12 cities across Europe during the whole of February and March. Some 2 000 guests attended the celebrations. The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA) and the King's Harmonica Quintet performed at the start of each function winning high praise for their quality renditions. The HKAPA also gave a special concert, featuring Chinese and western music, to mark Valentine's Day in Brussels on February 14. It was open to the public and was broadcast by local television stations.

Several Hong Kong government officials visited Europe during the year. In May, the then Financial Secretary, Mr Henry Tang, met Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Mr Pascal Lamy, in Geneva and the Federal Minister of Finance, Mr.