Cathay Pacific Welcomes Government Budget Strategy

Cathay Pacific Airways today welcomed the budget strategy outlined by the HKSAR Government's Financial Secretary, Mr John Tsang, which focuses on developing the economy, optimising human resources and investing in infrastructure.

Cathay Pacific Chief Executive John Slosar said: "Cathay Pacific is committed to Hong Kong and we will continue to make major long-term investments in our home city. Given the lingering uncertainty in the global economy, it is crucial for the Government to continue to take a prudent approach to ensure fiscal sustainability and stable economic development in Hong Kong.

"We are glad to see that appropriate levels of funding and resources will be allocated to enhance Hong Kong's position as an international aviation hub and logistics centre. To maintain the competitiveness of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) as one of the world's leading international aviation hubs, it is crucial for the Government to decide on the development of the three-runway system as soon as possible. We look forward to continuing our participation in this process.

"Cathay Pacific has recently opened its own cargo terminal at HKIA, with state-of-the-art facilities helping to bring new levels of efficiency to cargo-handling processes. The terminal will also enable us to offer more innovative and tailor-made products to our cargo customers. These new developments will better prepare Hong Kong to tap into the vast Western Pearl River Delta market that will open up upon the completion of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

"We also welcome the Government's commitment to further promote the city's tourism industry through initiatives such as enhancing Hong Kong's tourism infrastructure and boosting hotel supply. As Hong Kong's home carrier, we will continue to play our part in promoting Hong Kong as a tourist destination throughout our global network and lend our support to bring world class events to the city."

Mr Slosar added that the airline supports the Government's commitment to invest in education and efforts to optimise human capital. He said that the setting up of a HK$100 million training fund to ensure a sufficient and stable manpower supply for the maritime and aviation sectors will be key to the continued success of these pillar industries.