Lee off to NPC with thanks for Xi'an, Qingdao boost

Hong Kong's sole delegate to the National People's Congress standing committee, Starry Lee

Wai-king, has traveled to Beijing to participate in a two-day committee meeting starting today.

During the meeting, Lee and her standing committee peers will review a law concerning state secrets, along with other important documents such as the draft work report for the committee and the motions and attendance list for the upcoming plenary meeting, which begins on March 5 for the NPC.

Ahead of her departure, Lee expressed gratitude to Beijing for including Xi'an and Qingdao in the individual visit scheme, allowing residents from the two cities to visit Hong Kong without a guided tour starting from March 6.

"Once again, I would like to express gratitude to the central government for their support and care for Hong Kong," Lee said.

Especially recently, there has been good news about the expansion of two additional cities for Hong Kong residents to visit under the individual visit scheme.

"This has provided a boost of confidence for various industries in Hong Kong.

"I would like to once again call on different sectors to work towards making Hong Kong a hospitable and vibrant city, ensuring a positive experience for visitors from different cities."

Lee also hopes to meet officials from different ministries to push for a further relaxation of travel restrictions as well as multiple-entry permits for mainland tourists.

Lee's departure came as Kevin Yeung Yun-hung, the secretary for culture, sports, and tourism, said that Hong Kong was capable of hosting more mainland tourists.

However, Yeung emphasized the importance of a gradual and orderly expansion.

He said that the Hong Kong Tourism Board planned to conduct promotional activities in Qingdao and Xi'an to showcase the SAR's superior services and unique tourism experiences.

With regards to the postponement by Dior of its highly anticipated show next month, Yeung said he welcomed the luxury fashion house to continue hosting events in Hong Kong in the future.