The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, told Italian officials and business leaders in Milan that Hong Kong offered tremendous opportunities for bilateral economic and cultural links with Italy.

On 9 May 2008 Mr Tang started his two-day visit to Milan. He met with Mr Roberto Ronza, Under Secretary for International Relations of the Lombardy Regional Government, and updated him on Hong Kong's latest developments. He highlighted the SAR Government's plan to develop the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD).

"Given the rich cultural heritage of Italy, there is a lot we can learn from Italy in preserving historical buildings and promoting arts and cultural activities. The Lombardi government is immensely interested in the WKCD project. They are keen to explore opportunities for bilateral exchanges with Hong Kong in both performing and visual arts. They also see Hong Kong as the launching pad in Asia to showcase Italy's fine craftsmanship," said Mr Tang.

Speaking at a business luncheon organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Mr Tang emphasised Hong Kong's business-friendly environment and its unique role in helping foreign companies to enter the Mainland market. He called on Italian business leaders to look at the business opportunities and expand bilateral economic collaboration with Hong Kong.

On 10 May Mr Tang visited the Hong Kong Pavilion at the International Optics, Optometry and Ophthalmology Exhibition at MIDO fairground and lent his support for the Hong Kong exhibitors.

Addressing the audience at the eyeware parade organised by the HKTDC, Mr Tang noted that Italy and Hong Kong were leading exporters of spectacles. He pointed out that innovation was the way out amid fierce competition in the spectacles industry.

Summing up his tour to the exhibition, Mr Tang said he was impressed by the transformation of the exhibition from a procurement event to a branding and marketing experience. He urged Hong Kong exhibitors to be vigilant and maintain our competitive edge through innovation and added values.