Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today concluded a two-day visit to Shaanxi Province, where he met local leaders to discuss closer ties in cultural exchanges, education and innovation and technology.

Yesterday, Mr Chan called on Secretary of the CPC Shaanxi Provincial Committee Zhao Yide to exchange views on deepening co-operation between Hong Kong and Shaanxi. The meeting was also attended by Xu Qifang, Executive Deputy Director of the Hong Kong & Macao Work Office of the CPC Central Committee and the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council.

Mr Chan noted that since the 2024 signing of the Strengthening Hong Kong/Shaanxi Co-operation Agreement and several memoranda of understanding - covering legal services, innovation and technology, education and tourism - joint efforts by both places have yielded fruitful results with the support of the central government.

He added that both sides will continue to strengthen co-operation, particularly in cultural, educational and technological sectors, to achieve complementary advantages in the future.

During the meeting, Mr Chan thanked the Shaanxi Provincial People's Government for inviting him to the Ching Ming Festival memorial ceremony for the legendary Huang Di.

He highlighted the event's significance in connecting descendants of the Yan and Huang emperors from around the world to worship the first mythical ruler together, passing on the virtues of treasuring Chinese historical legacy.

Mr Chan noted that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's participation helps citizens gain a deeper understanding of the origins of Chinese civilisation, fostering a stronger sense of national identity and belonging.

He also expressed hope for strengthening co-operation with Shaanxi on patriotic education to help the younger generation in Hong Kong better identify with the nation and Chinese culture.

Mr Chan concluded his visit after attending the memorial ceremony this morning and returned to Hong Kong this afternoon.