Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee joined senior government officials on July 1 to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). During his speech at the celebratory reception, Lee stressed the need for bold reforms and outlined three strategic priorities for the city's development: safeguarding high-quality development with high-level security, speeding up the development of the Northern Metropolis, and improving people's livelihood proactively.
1. Safeguarding high-quality development with high-level security. Lee emphasized that HK is undergoing an economic transformation, facing both challenges and opportunities. He stated that under the advantages of "one country, two systems," opportunities outweigh challenges. The government will balance security with development, safeguard national security, and integrate into the country's overall development. Efforts will focus on upgrading industries, expanding domestic and international markets, and bolstering regional trade to reduce reliance on single markets. HK also aims to enhance its role as an international financial, shipping, and trade hub while fostering innovation and digital trade.
2. Speeding up the development of the Northern Metropolis. The Northern Metropolis, described by Lee as HK's "new growth engine," will adopt innovative approaches to fast-track its development. Key initiatives include the Northern Metropolis, the San Tin Technopole, and the HK Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-HK Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone. With a focus on industry development and innovative technology, the city will attract global research talent, foster innovation, and drive industrial growth to position HK for long-term development.
3. Improving people's livelihood proactively. Improving citizens' quality of life remains a top priority. Lee said that the government will sustain its efforts in improving people's livelihood in such aspects as housing, medical health, education, and welfare, thus enhancing people's quality of life. He also noted that the government will remain committed to accelerating the supply of public housing to further reduce the waiting time and ensure the timely provision of Light Public Housing to meet pressing demand. Reforms in healthcare will enhance public and primary medical services, while efforts in targeted poverty alleviation will focus on supporting those most in need. In transportation, the government plans to advance infrastructure development and railway projects.
Lee reiterated his commitment to reform, stating, "We would rather be reformers who rise to challenges than become complacent idlers." Amid increasing geopolitical uncertainties, he pointed out that HK is able to showcase exactly to the world the certainties of safety, stability, and development opportunities. By leveraging opportunities from the motherland and the global market, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering innovation, HK will shine brighter as "Pearl of the Orient."
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