創刊賀辭-日本國駐香港總領事

日本國駐香港總領事 (大使銜)
佐藤重和　賀辭

Congratulations on the launch of International Link!
As a unique and highly original monthly magazine, International Link is expected to be a great choice for Hong Kong readers looking for news and information on the diplomatic policy, economic situation, investment environment, culture and tourism of different countries provided directly by their consulates in Hong Kong and Macau.
Enjoying a close economic and trading relationship with Hong Kong, Japan has become its third largest trading partner. Playing a significant role in Asia as a financial and logistics centre, Hong Kong is home to as many as 2,100 Japanese companies that have started business operations in the city. Hong Kong has an insightful understanding not only of mainland Chinese affairs but also of things Japanese, and that makes the city an important base of operations for Japanese companies wishing to explore the Chinese market. More than ten years have now passed by since the handover, and in that time Hong Kong has experienced remarkable growth, despite having to live through SARS and the financial crisis in Asia. It is my firm belief that Hong Kong will continue to thrive under its free and open economic and legal structures.
By providing the most up-to-date information on diplomatic, economic and cultural affairs around the world, International Link will enable Japan and other countries to develop stronger trading and economic partnerships and deepen mutual understanding with Hong Kong. I look forward eagerly to the contribution International Link will make.

Shigekazu Sato
Consul-General and Ambassador
Consulate-General of Japan in Hong Kong