HK 'ready to show unique strengths in Apec summits'

Chief Executive John Lee voiced confidence in Hong Kong's unique strengths as the Greater Bay Area prepares to host Apec leaders in November. Speaking at a virtual conference, Lee highlighted the city's rule of law, seamless capital flow, and global financial influence as the region gears up for the summits. He emphasized Hong Kong's pivotal role, noting that Shenzhen will host the Apec Economic Leaders Meeting while Hong Kong will host the Apec Finance Ministers Meeting in October.

Lee framed Hong Kong's role as irreplaceable, citing its unparalleled convergence of the "China advantage" and the "global advantage." The city's highly market-oriented environment, anchored in the rule of law, enables free-flowing capital, information, and talent. Its tax regime is simple and low, supported by world-class professional services.

Lee also highlighted how Hong Kong brings together ideas, capital, and talent across boundaries, connecting the Greater Bay Area with global markets. Financial Secretary Paul Chan echoed similar sentiments in his video address, describing the Greater Bay Area as "unique in the world" and a single region containing an international financial hub, a dynamic innovation cluster, advanced manufacturing, and a multimodal transport network.

Chan underscored the region's value proposition for Asia-Pacific collaboration, attributing it to the principle of "when we partner, we multiply our strengths and extend their reach well beyond Asia." The year-end Apec gatherings were framed as a pivotal opportunity for the Greater Bay Area to act as a vital link, fostering dialogue, deepening cooperation, and forging new partnerships.