HK aims for economic breakthrough, NM boost: blueprint

Hong Kong has unveiled its first five-year plan, aimed at achieving new economic breakthroughs and advancing the Northern Metropolis development. The blueprint, released on Wednesday, outlines the city's commitment to consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial, maritime, and trade center, as well as an international aviation hub.

Additionally, Hong Kong aims to transform itself into an international innovation and technology center, attracting high-calibre talent to bolster its global competitiveness.

Chief Executive John Lee emphasized that these efforts are crucial to ensuring long-term prosperity and stability for Hong Kong. He stressed the importance of leveraging existing advantages while simultaneously developing new quality productive forces. The plan seeks to strengthen Hong Kong's role as a global offshore renminbi hub, deepen financial innovations, and expand the city's global competitiveness and influence.

The blueprint also highlights the integration of education, technology, and talent development within the Northern Metropolis. By synergizing the development of industrial parks, universities, and research institutions, Hong Kong aims to create an innovative ecosystem where industry, academia, and research are deeply interconnected. Moreover, the city plans to adopt the smart city concept in the planning of transportation, housing, and green public facilities.

In terms of improving people's livelihoods, the plan emphasizes the enhancement of public services across various sectors, including healthcare, education, housing, and elderly care. The city also intends to actively contribute to national strategies and further develop the Greater Bay Area.