On March 6, 2024, the Austrian Hong Kong Society (AHKS) celebrated Chinese New Year with a grand reception at the Vienna Grand Hotel.

The reception welcomed official delegations from InvestHK-Berlin and HKTDC-Frankfurt, as well as a high-ranking delegation from the Chinese Embassy in Vienna. Among the esteemed guests were Ambassador Ms. Mei Qi of the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Franz Rössler, Regional Director Asia/Oceania of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, Ms. Shirley Yung, Special Representative for Hong Kong and Trade Affairs of the European Union in Brussels, and members of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs from Vienna, along with other key figures. The diverse gathering of over 200 guests underscored the event's significance as a hub connecting Europe to Hongkong and the Greater Bay Area.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Wing-hin Chung, who announced the start of the reception. Ms. Jenny Szeto, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Berlin), Mr. Ken Chung, Regional Manager of Business Development for Europe, Central Asia & Israel at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, and Mr. Hans Grunner, President of the Austrian Hong Kong Society, delivered insightful welcome remarks, emphasizing the advantages of fostering business connections in this dynamic economic area. A captivating cultural performance by a String Quartet comprised of Hong Kong students added a touch of elegance to the reception. Following the cultural performance, guests enjoyed a delightful buffet, providing an informal setting for networking and strengthening business relationships.

As Secretary General of AHKS, Prof. Dr. Wei Manske-Wang and her MCI China Center team Ms. Yiqiao Wang took proactive measures at the event. The MCI China Center actively facilitated meaningful exchanges between the academic and business communities of Austria and China.

The Chinese New Year reception in Vienna served not only as a festive occasion but also as a platform for fostering collaboration and understanding between the business communities of Hong Kong and Austria. The event showcased the mutual benefits of a strong business connection and highlighted the cultural richness, contributing to the ongoing partnership between these dynamic regions.