A cultural event kicked off on Friday to foster further friendship and understanding between the Tibet Autonomous Region and Hong Kong.

Speaking at a reception held for the "Pearl of Snow Plateau -- China Tibetan Cultural Week", Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang said the week-long cultural event will offer a rare opportunity for Hong Kong's citizens to experience the unique cultural charm of mysterious Tibet.

The Tibet Autonomous Region is located on the world's highest plateau, and has a wealth of natural and cultural treasures, along with a diligent and wise people. "This unique event will bring Tibet and Hong Kong closer together," Tsang told guests and members of the press at the reception.

"Local citizens will have a greater understanding of Tibet and its people after they participate in its various events and exhibition this week," he said.

Tsang said the government hopes to continue further official exchanges between Tibet and Hong Kong, generating more cultural and economic development for the two regions.

More than 200 guests attended Friday's welcoming reception, including the Director of the Central Government Liaison Office in Hong Kong Gao Siren and the Chairman of the People's Government of the Tibet Autonomous Region Qiangha Pancog.

Jointly sponsored by the State Council Information Office, the Central Government Liaison Office in Hong Kong and the People's Government of the Tibet Autonomous Region, the cultural week commenced on Friday to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

The seven-day cultural event will feature more than 100 exhibits, over 500 photographs, and many antiques, focusing on Tibet's geographical location, population, natural resources, scenery and environmental protection.

The event will also showcase stage performances by more than 70 performers from the Tibetan Song and Dance Ensemble, while 16 Living Buddhas from Tibet will also visit the territory for the first time to conduct a Tantra blessing ceremony.

The event, supported by the Hong Kong Buddhist Association and other religious groups in the territory, will be held from Friday to July 21 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Citizens can browse the website of the Tibet Information Centre (http://www.tibet.cn) for additional information.

(China Daily July 16, 2005)