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Representatives of more than 10 geoparks from around the world participated in the "Asia Pacific Geoparks Network - Roundtable Conference 2014" today (July 14) under the theme "Networking and Partnership for Betterment of Global Geoparks".

The two-day conference is organised by the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China with the support of the Global Geoparks Network and Asia Pacific Geoparks Network with the aim of providing a platform for the reunion of representatives from the Hong Kong Geopark, its sister geoparks and partners as well as to facilitate sharing in knowledge and experience.

The Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Alan Wong, addressed the opening ceremony this morning. He extended a warm welcome to all participants and wished them a fruitful exchange.

Mr Wong shared the management experience and new initiatives of Hong Kong Geopark with the participants."To work towards our goal of sustainability for the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China and prepare for its revalidation in 2015, we have been focusing on key areas including co-operation and networking between Hong Kong Geopark and other places, capacity building, science popularisation and public education," he said.

"This conference has provided us with a good opportunity to share ideas and experiences for the latest development of global geoparks. We can learn from each other and enhance the quality and impact of our work for the betterment of the geopark movement," added Mr Wong.

To foster a closer relationship and co-operation with other geoparks, a partnership arrangement was signed between Hong Kong Global Geopark of China and Aso Geopark of Japan today. Aso Geopark is characterised by its magnificent and various volcano topography and geographical features. In addition, it offers a wide range of visitor facilities and has rich experience in geo-tourism.

"Establishing a partnership between the two geoparks will help strengthen the existing relationship between the two places and offer further collaboration opportunities, particularly in mutual promotion in geo-tourism," Mr Wong said.

During the conference, the participants visited the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region of Hong Kong Geopark and will also attend the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Global Geopark Volcano Discovery Centre in Sai Kung tomorrow.

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