HK prepared to enjoy spotlight in Expo

HONG KONG: Hong Kong will present a rich selection of cultural and other events in Shanghai this year for the World Expo, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government announced on Tuesday.

A countdown clock was unveiled at Tsim Sha Tsui to mark the 88- day countdown to the start of Expo on May 1.

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Different themes would be adopted for each month during the six- month Expo period to promote Hong Kong as a "Green City", a " Destination City", a "Cultural City", a "Creative City" and a city upholding the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, said Stephen Lam, the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs of HKSAR government.

Over 50 events and activities are under planning to promote Hong Kong's connectivity, creativity and attractions to audiences in the Chinese mainland and around the world.

Over 45 performances will be staged at the Expo site and at other performing arts venues in Shanghai to highlight and promote the diversity and creativity of talented Hong Kong artists. Programs range from Cantonese opera, Chinese and western music, dance, drama, opera, music theater to multi-media performances.

From May, the HKSAR government will work with public organizations, professional groups, academic institutions and business associations to roll out a series of exhibitions and thematic programs at Expo venues and high-traffic areas in Shanghai to showcase Hong Kong's strengths and advantages in areas such as green living, tourism, financial services, legal services and creative industries.

The highlight of Hong Kong's participation will be the five-day "Hong Kong Week" from October 18 to 22.

The program menu includes a parade as well as performances reflecting Hong Kong as a kaleidoscope of diverse cultures. Other high profile events lined up include a Style Hong Kong Show of Hong Kong brands, and film shows.

During the Expo, Hong Kong will operates a stand-alone pavilion under the theme of "Hong Kong, A City with Unlimited Potential" to showcase the infinite imagination and creativity of Hong Kong and its people; an Urban Best Practices Area Exhibition with "Smart Card Smart City Smart Life" as the theme; a "virtual pavilion" as well as a "virtual UBPA exhibition" for the Expo Shanghai Online project.