Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, took to the airwaves on September 18 to discuss the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030) and his fifth Policy Address, both unveiled on September 16. In a radio phone-in programme, Lee fielded questions on the government's new blueprint, which sets five main objectives: better livelihoods, economic breakthroughs, expanded global competitiveness and influence, faster development of the Northern Metropolis, and better service to the country.
On global competitiveness, Lee stressed Hong Kong's international status. "The strength of Hong Kong is its international status, and we have been emphasising on how we ensure the internationalism or the 'internationalness' of Hong Kong. We are expanding to cover every part of the world where we can reach," he said, noting the government's Economic and Trade Offices, Invest Hong Kong, and Hong Kong Trade Development Council offices worldwide. "I'm very serious about expanding our network." Since taking office four years ago, Lee has led delegations to ASEAN, the Middle East, and Central Asia, with colleagues frequently visiting South Africa and Kenya.
To boost influence, Lee highlighted the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed), headquartered in Hong Kong with United Nations status, and an international office under the global network of corruption prevention authorities. "Hong Kong is an international city, which not just is very good at doing business, but is exercising its responsibility as a global participator, and also, we really can contribute," he said.
The Northern Metropolis (NM) project received strong focus. "The Northern Metropolis represents about one third of our geographical area. So it is a big piece of land that gives us new opportunities. An opportunity to upgrade ourselves, both from the accommodation angle as well as development angle," Lee said. He noted the NM is included in China's 15th Five-Year Plan, elevating it to a state-driven project. "That means it is not just a Hong Kong development... And I am sure that the Central Government will also help us to ensure that this will be a success story."
On artificial intelligence, Lee emphasized balancing opportunities and risks, including crime, fraud, and impacts on youth. A new Commissioner for AI will be appointed to set policy, coordinate resources, issue guidelines, and develop AI for the whole government. "After we have developed our experience, let the world also learn from these experiences," he said.
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