Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, took to the airwaves on September 18 to elaborate on 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 two days earlier. The plan sets five main objectives: better livelihoods, economic breakthroughs, expanded global competitiveness and influence, faster Northern Metropolis development, and better service to the country. These goals matter because they represent a strategic pivot toward long-term planning and deeper integration with national development, while seeking to reinforce Hong Kong's unique international character.
On expanding global competitiveness, Lee stressed the importance of Hong Kong's international status and the government's efforts to broaden its global footprint. "We are expanding to cover every part of the world where we can reach," he said, citing Economic and Trade Offices, Invest Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council as key assets. Since taking office four years ago, Lee has led delegations to ASEAN Member States, the Middle East, and Central Asia, with colleagues also visiting South Africa and Kenya. To further boost influence, Lee highlighted the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) headquarters in Hong Kong, an organization with United Nations status. He also announced that an international office under the global network of corruption prevention authorities will be established in Hong Kong. These developments matter because they position Hong Kong not just as a business hub but as a global contributor and driver in international affairs, enhancing its soft power and connectivity.
A major focus of both the Five-Year Plan and the Policy Address is the Northern Metropolis (NM) project, which Lee described as representing about one third of Hong Kong's geographical area. "It gives us new opportunities to upgrade ourselves, both from the accommodation angle as well as development angle," he said. The NM is expected to diversify local industries, create jobs, and align more closely with national development. Lee noted that the NM is mentioned in the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, elevating it to a state-driven project. This elevation matters because it ensures central government support and underscores Hong Kong's role in national strategies, while the city retains its international connections. As Lee put it, "We have the beauty of both worlds."
On artificial intelligence, Lee emphasized balancing opportunities and risks, including crime, fraud, and impacts on youth. He announced the creation of a Commissioner for AI to set policy, coordinate resources, issue guidelines, and develop AI across the government. This move is significant as it centralizes AI governance, aiming to harness AI's benefits while mitigating dangers, and could serve as a model for other regions.
For more information about Hong Kong's initiatives, visit Brand Hong Kong. The plan and policy address signal a new era of proactive governance, aiming to secure Hong Kong's future as a global city deeply integrated with the nation.
