Hong Kong vital link to world, where China anchors its trust, John Lee says

Hong Kong is a vital link that the world can rely on for security and development under the shifting geopolitical landscape as it connects the globe with China’s growth certainty and investible stability, the city leader has said.

“Hong Kong is the ‘superconnector’ and ‘super value-adder’ that links the world with opportunities from China’s growth certainties. A link you can always bank on,” Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said in a keynote speech at the South China Morning Post’s China Conference on Tuesday.

“Amid an ever-changing geopolitical landscape and constantly escalating uncertainties, Hong Kong is the place that promises security and development. This certainty of safety and development is precisely what a world of investors needs and thirsts for.”

The China Conference, themed “Where Capital Meets Innovation” and mainly sponsored by Manulife, attracted more than 650 in-person attendees, alongside 300 participants.

Lee also mentioned China’s first domestically built aircraft carrier, the Shandong, which concluded its maiden visit to Hong Kong on Monday.

He said that the fleet was “more than a display of maritime strength”, adding it also showcased “China’s commitment to peacekeeping and regional stability”.

“And much like how the Shandong docked in our safe harbour, Hong Kong is where the country anchors its trust,” he said.

Lee said that the international trade uncertainties and chaos were likely to persist amid the growing protectionism and unilateralism.