Ladies and Gentlemen:

Hong Kong is an important partner in the cooperation between China and Scotland. In recent years, cooperation between Hong Kong and Scotland, especially in science, technology and innovation, has advanced steadily. One example is the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation inside the Hong Kong Science Park. There is enormous potential for Hong Kong-Scotland cooperation in areas such as FinTech, bio science and smart city.

In the past five months, however, the incessant radical violence in Hong Kong has trampled on rule of law, disrupted public order, severely undermined the prosperity and stability in Hong Kong, and challenged the principle "One Country, Two Systems". Such violent offences have pushed Hong Kong into an extremely dangerous situation. They have also put at risk the interests of 300,000 British citizens and more than 700 British companies, including Scottish citizens and companies in Hong Kong.

Last month, during the 11th BRICS Summit in Brazil, President Xi Jinping made clear the solemn position of the Chinese Government on the situation in Hong Kong. He pointed out that the top priority for Hong Kong is to end violence and restore order.

He said, "We will continue to firmly support the SAR Government under the leadership of the Chief Executive in governing Hong Kong in accordance with law. We firmly support Hong Kong police in strict and rigorous enforcement of the law. We firmly support the judicial institutions of Hong Kong in bringing violent offenders to justice in accordance with law."

He further emphasised: "The Chinese Government remains unwavering in its determination to safeguard China's national sovereignty, security and development interests, implement 'One Country, Two Systems', and oppose any interference from external forces in Hong Kong affairs."

This important statement is the most authoritative voice from the Central Government of China on the current situation and on the future of Hong Kong. I myself have explained the statement of President Xi Jinping to the British public on many occasions, including at the press conference at the Chinese Embassy two weeks ago.

I sincerely hope that the British people, including people here in Scotland, will bear in mind the larger picture and have a clear understanding of the current situation. I hope you will support the SAR Government in ending violence, restoring order and upholding the rule of law, resist and oppose any words or deeds that interfere in Hong Kong affairs, and do more things that are conducive to the prosperity and stability in Hong Kong.

I also hope that the Scottish business community will have confidence in Hong Kong. I am sure that with the strong support of the Central Government and the leadership of Chief Executive Carrie Lam and the SAR Government, Hong Kong people will overcome the difficulties and the "oriental pearl" will once again shine brightly.

Robert Burns wrote, "There is no such uncertainty as a sure thing." The Chinese people often say, "Anything is possible."

As the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, the international situation is full of uncertainties, so is the situation in the UK.

But there is one thing that is certain: There is enormous potential and a promising prospect for the mutually-beneficial cooperation between China and Scotland.

It is my hope that the business leaders present today will seize the opportunities and explore new ways for cooperation. Together we will open up new prospects for China-Scotland cooperation and take China-Scotland relationship to a higher level.

Thank you!