Legco debate on policy blueprints begin

Legco commenced a three-day debate on Wednesday concerning motions pertaining to Hong Kong's inaugural five-year plan and the 2026 Policy Address. Chief Secretary Eric Chan commenced his remarks by acknowledging the intricate nature of executing the five-year plan, assuring that the government would assume a proactive approach to deliver concrete outcomes.

Chan emphasized that the implementation of the five-year plan demands a robust framework to transform the ambitious blueprint into tangible results. He further highlighted that the government will collaborate with all sectors of society to steer the plan forward. Chan also elucidated that the Policy Address will serve as the annual agenda to translate the macro direction, strategic goals, and development framework into actionable policy measures for visible progress.

Notably, when the chief executive presents his annual duty visit report to the central government, he will provide an overview of the five-year plan's progress, assess performance, and propose recommendations for enhancement. Additionally, Chan pointed out that the Budget would furnish the requisite financial resources to execute the plan while adhering to fiscal sustainability principles.

The three-day debate is divided into six sessions, each concentrating on a specific policy theme. The inaugural discussion on Wednesday centered on bolstering Hong Kong's traditional four centers, transforming the city into an international hub for elite talent, and solidifying its global competitive advantages. Each legislator was allotted a combined total of 20 minutes across the sessions to express their perspectives on the two policy blueprints.