21 Jan 2002
The Friends of Scotland initiative took a step forward in East Asia today when the Secretary of State announced plans to promote the initiative in Hong Kong.
Sir James Hodge, Consulate-General Hong Kong, today agreed to take forward the initiative in Hong Kong., working with the Scottish Secretary to further strengthen and expand trade, tourism, cultural and educational links with Scotland.
Speaking at a lunch hosted by the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Helen Liddell said:
"Friends of Scotland is designed to strengthen the relationships that currently exist between Scotland and the rest of the world and to forge new ones. I am particularly pleased therefore that Sir James Hodge, Consul General, has today agreed to take forward the Friends of Scotland initiative in Hong Kong. He will carry forward what I have begun, so that many more people can reconnect with Scotland through trade, education, culture or tourism.
"I am very encouraged by the potential that exists here in Hong Kong where there are many connections and links with Scotland. Many Governors of Hong Kong were Scots, as was Thomas Sutherland, who founded the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank. Jardine Matheson, one of Scotland’s original trading houses, continues to play a major role in the commercial life of Hong Kong.
"I am here to develop these connections. I want to spread the message that now is a good time to find out about what is happening in Scotland and to come back to see what a vibrant and dynamic place it has become.
"Scotland has many friends abroad and I am sure that their energy, ideas, and enthusiasm will help promote all that is best about modern day Scotland."
NOTES TO NEWS EDITORS
1. The British Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1987. It has approximately 500 member companies, including most of the British groups represented in Hong Kong. It is the third largest of the major national chambers behind the American and Japanese Chambers.
2. Helen Liddell addressed an audience of representatives from leading companies in Hong Kong, at Morton’s of Chicago in Hong Kong.
3. The Secretary of State launched the Friends of Scotland initiative at a reception at the Banqueting Hall London on the 27th November 2001. The initiative has the backing of VisitScotland, Scottish Council Development International and the STUC. The Prime Minister the Foreign Secretary and the First Minister have all lent their support.