Hong Kong has been hosting the two-day Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025 this week, under the theme “Connect, Create, Engage: Bridging Cultures for All.” Cultural ministers and senior officials from 17 countries participated in the forum’s key session, the Ministerial Panel, held yesterday.

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law gave an opening address at the session, while Vice Minister of Culture & Tourism Gao Zheng also delivered a speech.

Under Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Raistlin Lau highlighted the forum’s significance since its launch in 2003, describing it as a vital platform for cultural interaction. He noted that this year marks a record high in terms of participating regions.

“For the first time in the forum’s history, we have added a plus sign to the 2025 edition, by inviting countries beyond Asia to participate,” he said. “We hope that with broader participation, we can gain more insights, not only from Asian economies but also from other parts of the world.”

Mr Lau also outlined the forum’s role in promoting global cultural developments and exploring opportunities for collaboration, adding that guided tours were arranged for delegates to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant cultural landscape.

“We hope they can become ambassadors for promoting the culture of Hong Kong, and also China, to the rest of the world.”

One of the participants, Minister of Culture of the Slovak Republic Martina Šimkovičová, was optimistic about forging new connections while in Hong Kong.

“My expectation is to see your culture, which is completely different from the culture of Slovakia, and I would like to show Slovak culture.”

Ms Šimkovičová also invited Hong Kong residents to visit her country for longer stays to explore its historical buildings and rich nature.

“Hong Kong’s culture is exciting for me. It is a mix of old and new together, and I love the energy of your arts and the beauty of your heritage,” she added. “It shows deep respect for tradition, which is very important to me.”

Dongguan Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism & Sports Deputy Director Wu Shaowen expressed hope for leveraging the strong relationship between Dongguan and Hong Kong to keep up with global cultural developments.

Acting Chief Executive Chan Kwok-ki hosted a gala dinner for the delegates, who enjoyed performances by local musicians showcasing a blend of Chinese and Western traditional and contemporary music, offering a glimpse into Hong Kong’s vibrant and diverse arts and culture scene.