On 9 May, the diplomatic reception at the Maritime Museum unfolded with a magnificent view of Hong Kong harbour. Financial Secretary Paul Chan attended as the Guest of Honour. Over 300 distinguished guests attended – including members of Government and State institutions, the Consular Corps, the press and representatives from the business and civil society. Guests enjoyed the culinary diversity and discovered cultural highlights of Europe at booths organised by Member States and Chambers of Commerce – a true "Team Europe" approach. This memorable evening was marked by music and heritage including two chorales of Hong Kong and French schools performing the national anthems. 

European Union, 2025

European Union, 2025

European Union, 2025

After this successful diplomatic celebration, the EU Office was pleased to organise a first-ever public Europe Day Festival on 10 May. Ambassador Harvey Rouse and Secretary of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Rosanna Law kicked-off the event together. During the Festival, EU Member States showcased the richness and diversity of European cultures in a lively street fair. More than 3,500 Hongkongers enjoyed numerous live performances ranging from songs presented by the French International School, interactive roving masks theatre to a memorable rendition of favourite excerpts from the classic opera "Carmen" by Opera Hong Kong.

European Union, 2025

European Union, 2025

On 22 May, the EU Office brought the celebration of Europe Day to Macao with a well-attended diplomatic reception, in the presence of Cheong Weng Chon, Secretary for Administration and Justice, and Sun Xiangyang, Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The diplomatic reception took place at the Artyzen Grand Lapa Hotel, a venue that celebrates Macanese style with its fascinating blend of southern Chinese and southern European influences. 

European Union, 2025

European Union, 2025

Throughout these celebrations, Rouse highlighted the deep and significant relations between the European Union and Hong Kong and Macau. The EU business community remains the largest non-Chinese foreign business community in Hong Kong (half of which are regional HQs) and a major trading partner of Hong Kong (€67 billion (with €30 billion trade surplus for EU!)), while the EU is Macao’s second-largest trading partners in goods, accounting for 27% of Macao’s total trade (China = 28%). Rouse vowed to also strengthen further people-to-people ties and very importantly, to support an open and vibrant Hong Kong and Macao and promote the "uniqueness" under the "one country, two systems" framework. 

European Union, 2025

During these celebrations, Rouse reaffirmed the EU’s support for the rules-based international order, which has laid the foundations for the peace, stability, and growing prosperity over the past decades. At both diplomatic receptions, Rouse also reiterated the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine and commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace through strength.

European Union, 2025

European Union, 2025