Swire Pacific Limited : Dragonair Welcomes Government's Commitment to Hong Kong's Long Term Competitiveness

(HONG KONG) Dragonair today welcomed the commitment made by Financial Secretary Mr John Tsang to bolster Hong Kong's position as an international hub and enhance its long term competitiveness.

Dragonair Chief Executive Officer Patrick Yeung said: "We are delighted to see the strong emphasis placed on strengthening our position as an international city, and support measures that will ensure the continuity of Hong Kong's economic growth, as well as the maintenance of a highly open market with a free flow of people, goods, capital and information."

"Dragonair carries passengers and cargo to and from more than 40 destinations in Mainland China and around Asia. We welcome government measures that will bolster economic and trade ties with neighbouring cities, and encourage overseas enterprises to capitalise on Hong Kong's position as the gateway to Mainland China and the Asia Pacific market."

The airline also welcomes the Government's support for the building of a third runway as it is the only viable way to ensure the long-term competitiveness of Hong Kong as a whole.

Mr Yeung said: "We look forward to the results of the Environmental Impact Assessment from the Airport Authority, as well as information on financing options."

He also welcomed the Government's acknowledgement that labour mismatch and shortage pose a threat to the development of Hong Kong industries, and that the issue requires remedial measures.

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Dragonair, an affiliate member of one world, is a Hong Kong-based airline operating a fleet of 41 passenger aircraft and serving 47 regional destinations, including 22 cities in Mainland China. Dragonair has been recognised for its product and service quality, and has been named the "Best Regional Airline" at the TTG Travel Awards for four consecutive years since 2010, and voted "World's Best Regional Airline" in the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards™ in 2010, 2011 and 2013. Dragonair is part of the Cathay Pacific Group, providing seamless connectivity for passengers to more than 180 cities around the globe.