More than 200 film-makers, show-biz stars and artistes voiced their support and blessings to the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games at a reception here Monday night, vowing to play a role in promoting the Beijing Olympics.

The "Welcoming Olympic Christmas Reception" was hosted by the Hong Kong Film Development Council and officiated by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive Donald Tsang and President of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, Timothy Fok.

Chairman of the Film Development Council Jack So said that although unrelated at first glance, the Olympic Games and the film industry shared common ground - they are both cradles for talent.

"Film stars and sports elite both have the determination to strive for excellence and record-breaking success," So said, adding "the exciting Olympic Games and blockbusters of Hong Kong have always been able to attract and inspire big audiences."

Fok thanked the film industry for taking the lead to support the Beijing Olympic Games.

"I hope that with concerted efforts, the film industry will be able to drum up public support for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and the equestrian event to be held in Hong Kong, and that the whole territory will share the joyous, enthusiastic atmosphere," Fok said.

Chairman of the Hong Kong Chamber of Films Peter Lam said the chamber would help the Film Development Council shoot a series of Olympic Games promotional videos, which would be shown in member theaters of the Hong Kong Theaters Association.

Eric Tsang, Chairman of the Hong Kong Performing Artistes Guild, also pledged to offer unswerving support in the promotion of the Olympic Games.

The Film Development Council was established in April this year to advise the HKSAR government on the policy and strategy for the short and long-term development and steady growth of the local film industry.
 
(Xinhua News Agency December 18, 2007)