The Honorable Ms. Regina Ip G.B.M., G.B.S., J.P, Convenor of the Executive Consul of Hong Kong,

The Honorable Mr. Tang Ping-keung, G.B.S., PDSM, J.P., Secretary of Security of the Government of the HKSAR

Mr. Li Yongsheng, Deputy Commissioner of China’s Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong SAR

Representatives from the Central Liaison Office of Hong Kong SAR,

Distinguished guests, ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening,

First of all, let me extend my congratulations to you all for the 75th Anniversary of the Foundation of the People’s Republic of China and the Inauguration of the 2nd Council of the Hong Kong Myanmar- Chinese Friendship Association.

I’m happy to note that HKMCFA which was founded in 2017, has long been committed to promoting the friendship between Myanmar and China, the well-being of China and Hong Kong and the local Myanmar overseas-Chinese.

The relations between Myanmar and China can be traced back to ancient times since we are geographically connected, sharing more than 2000 kilometers of border. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries on June 8, 1950, both sides have enjoyed the time-honored "Pauk Phaw" Friendship and have been developed over the years to the level of the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership in 2011. Next year will mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Myanmar.

Myanmar attaches great importance to its relations with China, adheres to the one-China principle and supports the Belt and Road Initiative, the three major global initiatives and the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind. Myanmar has been working with China to engage in closer exchanges at all levels, speed up the construction of major projects within the framework of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, deepen cooperation in agriculture, energy, tourism and other fields, and work for more results in building a Myanmar-China community with a shared future.

Under the framework of Myanmar-China Relations, and the Relations between Myanmar and Hong Kong have progressed over time. Myanmar will find many opportunities to expand its relations and cooperation with Hong Kong based on win-win cooperation to the benefit of the two peoples. And I hope your Friendship Association will also play an important role for promoting the relations between the two places and people-to-people relations in the future ahead.

Thank you.