Chief Executive Donald Tsang will attend the 15th Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Economic Leaders' Meeting in Sydney September 8 and 9.

Leaders will deliberate on regional economic issues, including the role of APEC in bringing a timely and successful conclusion of the World Trade Organization Doha Development Agenda negotiations, ways to promote greater regional economic integration and the reform of APEC.

They will also discuss issues fundamental to the growth and sustainable development of member economies, such as measures to cope with the harmful effects of climate change, and co-operation in energy security, clean development and human security.

Mr Tsang will attend the APEC Business Summit on September 6, at which President Hu Jintao will deliver a keynote speech. The Chief Executive will join the Dialogue with the APEC Business Advisory Council on September 8.

2nd leg

Mr Tsang will leave for Wellington on September 9. During his three-day visit to New Zealand he will update the country's senior Government officials, business leaders, think tanks and the media on Hong Kong's latest developments.

On September 10 he will meet Prime Minister Helen Clark and other senior Government officials. He will visit the National Museum and attend a luncheon hosted by the Asia New Zealand Foundation.

On September 11 he will head to Auckland where he will attend an event organised by the Tourism Board to promote the Olympic equestrian events to be held in Hong Kong next year. He will also meet local business leaders and give a keynote address at the Gala Dinner hosted by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office (Sydney).

Mr Tsang will return to Hong Kong September 12. During his absence Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang will be Acting Chief Executive.