The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government is holding photographic exhibitions in three major Canadian cities to highlight developments in the territory during the 12 months after the handover on July 1, 1997.

Hundreds of colour photographs depicting the SAR's smooth transition under the "One country, two systems" concept, its achievements as an economic powerhouse in the region and the vibrancy of the territory are on display at popular venues.

The exhibition entitled "Challenge and Opportunities" is organised to mark the first anniversary of the establishment of the SAR.

"People who are interested should visit one of these venues and see for themselves the progress and achievements of the SAR since the handover," Mr Donald Tong, the Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office of the SAR Government said today.

"There are more than 200 pictures in each of the exhibitions covering many parts of the territory history and development as a major economic and financial hub of the region."

In Toronto, the exhibition is being held at Market Village, Markham, from July 9 to 13, and at the City Hall Rotunda, downtown Toronto from July 27 to 31.

In Vancouver the exhibition will be held from July 11 to 24 at the Chinese Cultural Centre, multi-purpose hall in East Pinter Street.

In Calgary, a 13-day exhibition opened on July 4 at the Chinese Cultural Centre in First Street W. The exhibits will be on display again at the same venue from July 20 to 31. Between July 17 and 19, the photographs will be displayed at different times at the Chinook Centre in Macleod Trail south.