ENG-2008 — Page 49

Constitution and Administration 1 13

In accordance with Article 151 of the Basic Law, the HKSAR concluded 12 agreements with foreign states in 2008 on matters such as telecom co-operation, insurance co-operation and co-operation on wine-related businesses. With the authorisation of the Central People's Government (CPG), the HKSAR also concluded three bilateral agreements with foreign states on mutual legal assistance during the year. Pursuant to the CPG's decision after seeking the views of the HKSAR Government, six multilateral conventions became applicable to the HKSAR in 2008.

Active participation in international activities and close liaison with international partners have enabled the HKSAR to maintain its status as an international financial, trade, civil aviation and shipping centre.

There is a large foreign representation in the HKSAR, including 58 consulates- general, 58 honorary consuls and five officially recognised international bodies.

Working Relationship of the HKSARG with the MFA Office

The HKSAR Government continues to work closely with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA Office) in Hong Kong, which was established by the CPG, in the following areas:

(a) participation in international organisations and conferences, such

obtaining the CPG's approval for HKSAR Government officials to participate as members of the PRC delegation in international conferences limited to states;

(b) negotiation and conclusion of international agreements, such as obtaining the CPG's specific authorisation for the negotiation and conclusion of agreements with foreign states in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Basic Law;

(c)

consular protection for Hong Kong people in distress overseas; and

(d) matters relating to consular missions in the HKSAR. The establishment of foreign consular and other official or semi-official missions is a matter for the MFA Office. The HKSAR Government is responsible for the day-to-day management of the consular corps.

Working Relationship with the Mainland Authorities

The Government continues to have a cordial working relationship with the CPG and other Mainland authorities. This is enhanced through visits, meetings, seminars and other exchanges between the two governments.

The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office (HKMAO) of the State Council assists the Hong Kong Government in developing contacts with the Mainland authorities. The Government also liaises closely with the HKMAO on matters of mutual concern to Hong Kong and Macao and on arrangements for official visits between the Mainland and Hong Kong.