Hong Kong leader tours CIIE with vice-premier, promotes city's development
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee joined Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, showcasing Hong Kong's latest developments and its first five-year plan aligned with national strategies.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee on Thursday attended the opening ceremony of the ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, expressing gratitude for Beijing's strong support for the city. Lee toured the Hong Kong exhibition zone at the China Pavilion alongside Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang, highlighting the zone's features and Hong Kong's recent progress.
Lee said that with national backing, Hong Kong's economy is performing well and has achieved strong results in various international rankings, demonstrating global confidence in the city. He also introduced the First Five-Year Plan for Hong Kong, announced in September, which aligns with the national 15th Five-Year Plan to better integrate into and serve the country's development.
Hong Kong will leverage its advantages to strengthen its status as an international financial, shipping, trading and aviation hub, Lee said. The city will accelerate the development of an international innovation and technology centre and build a hub for high-end global talent to achieve high-quality economic and social growth.
In the afternoon, Lee attended the Hong Kong sub-forum of the Hongqiao International Economic Forum and visited the CIIE's business exhibition to encourage participating Hong Kong companies. The exhibition offers promotional support including live-streaming rooms, mainland influencers hosting product tours, cooking demonstrations and tastings, exhibitor sharing sessions and business matching, allowing Hong Kong firms to connect directly with potential mainland customers, boost their brand recognition and secure business opportunities.
Lee urged Hong Kong companies to take note of policy measures outlined in this year's policy address, which aim to help businesses expand into the mainland market and enhance Hong Kong's role as a global gateway. He encouraged them to seize the vast opportunities arising from national development, leveraging the city's reputation for "Made in Hong Kong" products and high-value professional services to explore broader markets.
