Hong Kong has just unveiled its first-ever five-year plan alongside the 2026 Policy Address — two landmark documents that set out the city's vision for the years ahead. But what do they mean for Hong Kong's international partners? We sat down with Mr Federico Lage Cabeza, Consul-General of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay in Hong Kong, to find out.
In this exclusive interview, he shares his impressions of the briefings delivered by Chief Executive John Lee to the consular corps and representatives of international business chambers. He describes both documents as pragmatic and ambitious — particularly on international engagement, youth exchanges, and cultural cooperation.
He highlights two concrete examples. First, the Belt and Road Scholarship scheme, which will expand from 50 to 200 places, allowing more students from Belt and Road countries and regions to study at Hong Kong universities. Second, the West Kowloon Cultural District's new performing arts centre, set to open next year with a focus on dance, offering overseas artists a platform to perform and engage with local audiences.
He also reflects on Uruguay's growing ties with Hong Kong, including his vice-president's recent visit for the Belt and Road Summit, and reaffirms his country's sustained commitment to the initiative — particularly its themes of people-to-people connectivity and cultural understanding.
With the first five-year plan and the 2026 Policy Address charting Hong Kong's next chapter, he says Uruguay is more than eager to seize the new opportunities they present.
(Reporter: Lynn Zhou; Cameraman: Felicia Hao; Video Editing: Ian Lau)
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