(18 April, 2023, Hong Kong) Our Hong Kong Foundation International Forum on Progress Through Collaboration featuring 18 prominent speakers from foreign affairs, government, business and culture, was held today. The forum explored Hong Kong’s new opportunities and new future as an international financial centre and East-West cultural hub against the backdrop of mainland China’s long-range national development goals.

Nearly one hundred and twenty thousand attendees, including politicians, chairmen, CEOs, experts, and leaders from different fields, consulate generals, think tanks, and business sectors, joined in person or online. 

With Hong Kong–ASEAN Foundation as the supporting partner, the Forum opened with videos addresses by HKSAR Chief Executive the Hon John KC Lee and Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR (CPGLO) Director Mr Zheng Yanxiong. Attending in person were HKSAR Government Chief Secretary for Administration the Hon Chan Kwok-ki and CPGLO Deputy Director Ms Lu Xinning, who also addressed the audience with insightful opening remarks. Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR Deputy Commissioner Mr Yang Yirui also attended the Forum.

Afterwards, the Forum entered into the keynote session and panel discussions. At the first keynote session, “Fostering Collaboration for Growth”, Harvard University Spangler Family Professor of Business Administration, T.M. Chang Professor of China Studies, and University Distinguished Service Professor William C. Kirby, Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and Secretary-General of the Asian Peace and Reconciliation Council H.E. Ambassador Sihasak Phuangketkeow, and Hang Lung Properties Chair Mr Ronnie Chan shared their views. 

Press Release: Global Experts Explore Hong Kong’s Super-Connector Role

The Forum continued with two panel discussion sessions. The first panel, themed “Integrity and Innovation:  Hong Kong’s New Strengths as An International Financial Centre”, explored how Hong Kong’s sound financial system and FinTech innovation could redefine the region’s position and competitive edge. At the second panel, “East Meets West: Connecting the World”, seven speakers explored Hong Kong’s unique strengths in art, sports, aviation and transport, plus research and development.  

Moderated by Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation Chairman and Sino Group Deputy Chairman Mr Daryl Ng, the HKSAR Government Financial Services & the Treasury Under Secretary Mr Joseph Chan, Financial Services Development Council Chairman Laurence Li, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited Chief Executive Officer Mr Nicolas Aguzin, Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited Co-Chief Executive Mr David Liao and Citi Global Wealth Head of Asia Ms Angel Ng exchanged views on Hong Kong’s strengths as an international financial hub.

OHKF President Dr Jane Lee moderated the second panel. Speakers included H.E. Ambassador Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Mr Bernard Chan, Mr Ronnie Chan, John Swire & Sons (H.K.) Limited Chairman Mr Guy Bradley, Nissin Foods Company Limited Executive Director, Chairman, & Chief Executive Officer Mr Kiyotaka Ando, and Hong Kong Sports Institute Limited Chief Executive Dr Trisha Leahy. 

Press Release: Finance, Culture & Sports and Connectivity Strengthen a New East-West Hub