Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan Positions City as Global Contributor, Says Chief Executive

Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, took to the airwaves on September 18 to discuss the city's first Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2026-2030) and his fifth Policy Address, both unveiled on September 16. The plan sets five main objectives: better livelihoods, economic breakthroughs, expanded global competitiveness, faster Northern Metropolis development, and better service to the country. Lee's remarks underscore a pivotal shift in Hong Kong's governance, integrating long-term planning with national development strategies and global outreach.

Central to the plan is Hong Kong's international status. "The strength of Hong Kong is its international status," Lee said, noting that the Government is expanding its global network through Economic and Trade Offices, Invest Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. Since taking office, Lee has led delegations to ASEAN, the Middle East, and Central Asia, with colleagues frequently visiting African nations like South Africa and Kenya. This aggressive expansion aims to bolster Hong Kong's influence and economic ties worldwide, a critical move as global competition intensifies.

Lee highlighted the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) headquarters in Hong Kong as a testament to the city's growing role in global governance. "We are very proud to have the headquarters of IOMed set up in Hong Kong, because this is an organisation which is of United Nations status," he said. Additionally, an international office under the global network of corruption prevention authorities will be set up in Hong Kong. These developments signal Hong Kong's evolution from a mere participant to a driver in international affairs, enhancing its soft power and positioning it as a contributor to global solutions.

The Northern Metropolis (NM) project, occupying about one third of Hong Kong's land, is a cornerstone of the plan. Lee emphasized its role in diversifying industries, creating jobs, and integrating with national development. "The NM is actually mentioned in our country's 15th Five-Year Plan. That means it is not just a Hong Kong development, it has been elevated as a state-driven project," he said. This elevation ensures central government support, promising a transformative impact on Hong Kong's economy and livelihood, and reinforcing its alignment with national priorities.

On artificial intelligence, Lee stressed balancing opportunities and risks. The Government will create a Commissioner for AI to set policy, coordinate resources, and develop AI for government use, aiming to share experiences globally. "While we develop and ensure people understand and use it, we also need to tell everybody the potential risks that it will bring," he said, addressing concerns like crime and fraud. This proactive stance positions Hong Kong as a responsible AI leader, crucial in an era of rapid technological change.

For more information, visit Brand Hong Kong.