The Hong Kong-Barcelona Urban Exchange: A Dual Approach to Waterfront Regeneration symposium was officially opened today (February 22) at the Centennial Campus of the University of Hong Kong, with over 400 planning and urban design professionals from Hong Kong, Barcelona and the international community attending. The symposium is aimed at the exchanging and sharing of knowledge in planning, urban design and the green environment based on the experience of the two cities, especially with regard to waterfront regeneration.
The symposium was organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Government of Barcelona City, together with the Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design, the Hong Kong Institute of Planners and the Hong Kong Green Building Council.
The Secretary for Development, Mr Paul Chan, and the Deputy Mayor of Barcelona, Mr Antoni Vives, officiated at the symposium, delivering welcome remarks and the opening address. Keynote speakers included the Head of Energizing Kowloon East Office of the Development Bureau, Mr Raymond Lee, and the CEO of Barcelona Regional, Mr Willy Müller. The speakers shared their experiences and insights and discussed the challenges encountered in designing new urban sites for the two cities.
"It is my great pleasure to welcome our guests from Barcelona and all participants to the symposium, especially those representatives from the Government of Barcelona City and Barcelona Regional who have come here to share their invaluable views and experience," Mr Chan said.
He noted that in 2012, the Government of the City of Barcelona and the HKSAR signed a Memorandum of Understanding to mark the beginning of long-term co-operation between the two cities in the field of urban development.
The symposium exemplifies the increasing collaboration between the two cities in examining planning and design issues. The challenges that the two cities are facing in enhancing their respective waterfronts also provide a common framework for sharing knowledge and seeking quality solutions.
Ends/Saturday, February 22, 2014
Issued at HKT 11:02
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