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 Mr Donald Tsang, Chief Secretary for Administration of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, delivered an address to students and faculty at Smurfit School UCD on Tuesday 2nd November 2004.
The Chief Secretary talked of the new Pan-Pearl River Delta co-operation initiative that will open up many
new opportunities in Hong Kong for overseas investors. Delivering the keynote speech at the luncheon, he spoke of the Pan-PRD or "9+2" economic grouping, which brings together China's nine southern provinces, Hong Kong, and Macau, to create a market with the population of the European Union and will
highlight the opportunities for Irish companies to use Hong Kong as their base for doing business in the Pan-PRD, and in the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong is Irelands' ninth largest trading partner outside the EU and total trade between Ireland and Hong Kong grew by an average yearly rate 21.1% between 1999 and 2003. Fifteen Irish companies have established offices in Hong Kong so far as well as Enterprise Ireland.
Dr. Damien McLoughlin Dean of Smurfit School UCD
The Dean of Smurfit School UCD, Dr Damien McLoughlin welcomed the Chief Secretary and said,
"We are delighted to welcome Mr Donald Tsang during his official visit to Ireland. We hope that this will lead to stronger ties between Ireland and Hong Kong, not only in the areas of trade, but in further educational alliances and ventures. In many ways we have a shared energy in that Ireland acts as a gateway to the European markets while Hong Kong serves as a gateway to the mainland Chinese markets."
"Here at Smurfit School of Business, with 1,200 students from over 42 nations, and 10,000 alumni worldwide, our global character reflects our educational philosophy. This is one that appreciates the immense benefits that an internationally diverse student body can deliver, both in developing international friendships and increasing international understanding. Today we are proud to have 40 students from China studying at our School, each bringing a unique experience and perspective to our student body."
"Ranked among the leading European business schools, Smurfit School UCD is one of just thirteen schools worldwide to hold the Triple Crown of Accreditation from the three major international business school accrediting bodies. Our task now is to be amongst the very best in Europe by being better daily, weekly and monthly, and to build on all of our small successes until we reach this goal."
"Strong leadership is at the heart of every successful enterprise and Irish business needs high quality leadership now more than ever. The leadership that Mr Donald Tsang has shown in the new Pan Pearl River Delta co-operation initiative highlights how effective leaders combine realistic objectives with a clear vision and draw people who are committed. Our primary responsibility here at Smurfit School is to develop and deliver top class leaders to society. As academics, executives, alumni and students we all share this responsibility."
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