Chief Executive Edmund Ho emphasized that the SAR Government would protect its cultural heritage and would improve cultural ties with other countries.

Mr. Ho today (24 July) attended the 160th birthday celebration of the writer Zheng Guanying. He praised the writer for his literary contributions, which have had a profound effect on contemporary society.

The Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Chui Sai On, said that the government was studying the maintenance of Zheng's House which is expected to be opened to visitors in 2004.

Mr. Chui added that Zheng's House was included on the Heritage List which was submitted to the World Heritage Organization.