Minister of State Seamus Brennan T.D., representing the Government at the Ceremonies in Hong Kong.
Mr. Seamus Brennan TD, Minister of State at the Departments of the Taoiseach and Defence and Government Chief Whip, is representing the Government at the Ceremonies in Hong Kong on 30 June and 1 July 1997 on the occasion of the return of Hong Kong to China.
The Irish Government is pleased to participate in the ceremonies marking the return of Hong Kong to the People's Republic of China, at the invitation of the British and Chinese Governments. The Government extends its congratulations to the Government and people of China on this truly historic occasion.
The Government also extends its best wishes for the future well-being of the new Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and its people in China. It is confident that China will treat the SAR in accordance with its obligations and undertakings, especially its undertaking to replace the Provisional Legislative Council through new elections within twelve months. These elections should be free and fair.
Looking forward to its continuing prosperity, the Irish Government will closely monitor developments in the SAR, specifically with regard to the respect for democratic principles and human rights, which the Government believes are essential for the future of Hong Kong as a financial and economic centre.