Swire Pacific A : Cathay Pacific Welcomes Government Budget Strategy
02/01/2012 | 06:06am
Press Releases
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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1 February 2012
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CATHAY PACIFIC WELCOMES GOVERNMENT BUDGET STRATEGY
Cathay Pacific Chief Executive John Slosar today welcomed the
prudent steps taken by the Hong Kong SAR Government's
Financial Secretary, Mr John Tsang, against the backdrop of
an uncertain international economic situation.
"With Hong Kong's externally vulnerable economy, Mr
Tsang is right to adopt measures that can mitigate any impact
from the very volatile global economic conditions currently
prevailing," Mr Slosar said.
He also welcomed the Financial Secretary's assurance of
the government intention to seek an early decision on the
Hong Kong Airport Authority's recommendation for the
construction of a third runway at Hong Kong International
Airport (HKIA).
"I absolutely agree with Mr Tsang that the future
development of the airport and the overall economic
development of Hong Kong are inextricably intertwined. We
strongly believe this can be best achieved with a third
runway to meet future growth and the need to maintain HKIA as
Asia's premier aviation hub."
"We will warmly welcome a decision to proceed with the
next stage of work, including an environmental impact
assessment and preparing the associated detailed design and
financing proposals. Given the importance of this project to
the long term well-being and sustainability of the Hong Kong
economy, we believe this is a decision that should be given
the highest priority by the government."
Mr Slosar added that the provision of more hotel rooms and
more international school places are forward-looking
investment that would bring immense benefit as Hong Kong
continues to attract business, visitors, investment, and
talents from all over the world.
"As Hong Kong's home carrier, Cathay Pacific is
committed to enhancing the status of Hong Kong as a leading
international aviation hub and the premier gateway into
Mainland China for both passenger and cargo services.
"This is why, despite the economic uncertainties, we are
making a huge investment in acquiring 97 new aircraft at a
listed price of HK$190 billion and building a new air cargo
terminal that will become operational next year at HK$5.7
billion," said Mr Slosar.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Cathay Pacific Airways Limited
Thomas Lau, Asst Corp Comm Mgr, Public Affairs, 2747-5360,
thomas_lau@cathaypacific.com
