CS speaks at Boao thematic forum

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today attended the Global Free Trade Ports Development Forum at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Hainan, and exchanged views with Hainan Governor Liu Xiaoming and leaders from overseas.

At the ports development forum, Mr Chan stressed that Hong Kong is a staunch supporter of free trade and has been a promoter of it at multilateral and regional levels, including the World Trade Organization and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, and an advocate of eliminating trade barriers.

He added that Hong Kong, in enjoying strong support from the motherland and being closely connected to other parts of the world, is consolidating its strategic position as an international trade centre in two major directions, namely exploring global partnerships and actively integrating into China’s overall development.

He stressed that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will seize the opportunities brought about by the eastward shift in global economic gravity and China’s high-quality development, and strengthen Hong Kong’s roles as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”. In particular, Hong Kong will capitalise on Greater Bay Area development and the Belt & Road Initiative in order to enhance the strategic positions of both the country and Hong Kong in the international economic and trade arena.

Before attending the forum, the Chief Secretary met Hainan Governor Liu Xiaoming and said he looked forward to helping Hainan enterprises go global. He also invited Hainan enterprises, talent and youth to pursue opportunities in Hong Kong.

In addition, Mr Chan interacted with representatives of the Y. Elites Association and young people from Hong Kong serving as volunteers at the Boao Forum this year.

He was pleased to learn that the association has helped Hong Kong youths participate in the Boao Forum over a number of years, enabling them to showcase their talent and broaden their horizons. He was also happy to know that the Hong Kong volunteers had gained rich experience and deepened their understanding of the high-quality development of Hainan and the country at large.

Tomorrow, the Chief Secretary will attend the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 opening plenary, before returning to Hong Kong.