The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) will open tomorrow in Shanghai. Hong Kong has sent 30 young volunteers. I wonder how well they understand the CIIE? The CIIE not only witnesses China's economic transformation from "the world's factory" to "consumption-driven," but also attracts high-quality global products through its vast domestic market, reshaping the new landscape of international trade. Meanwhile, looking back at the long-standing and close economic ties between Shanghai and Hong Kong, from early shipping trade to today's financial and innovation cooperation, some industries have seen Hong Kong companies actively entering Shanghai, while many innovative ideas and products have been introduced from Shanghai to Hong Kong, demonstrating the profound economic and cultural exchange between the two places. I would like to encourage the young volunteers: on this international stage, you should not only connect with the world through professional service, but also promote cooperation through cultural understanding, showcasing the vision and breadth of mind of the new generation.

At the “Career Pathways” event, I joined fellow alumni to share our journeys with Hong Kong students studying in the Mainland. I spoke about discovering my academic direction through research in university, and encouraged students to stay curious and seize opportunities—starting early isn’t everything. Studying in the Mainland offers a unique edge: understanding both societies helps us better analyze Greater Bay Area and cross-border policies. I hope this exchange sparks more interest in public affairs and inspires youth to contribute through expertise.

The JC Conference brought together youth and caring adults to explore how human wisdom and artificial intelligence can complement each other in shaping future society. Our new digital platform was launched to match young people's career traits with real market opportunities. Youth presented creative proposals, highlighting the power of intergenerational collaboration in building a more inclusive and opportunity-rich future.

After two days of intensive learning, participants transformed knowledge into powerful debates. As a judge, I witnessed their sharp analysis and multi-perspective thinking across three timely topics: AI in creative industries, the impact of “panda economy,” and comparing Shanghai-Hong Kong as regional HQs. Their insights reflected not just policy understanding, but cross-sectoral vision and critical thinking. Public affairs demand empathy and stakeholder awareness—skills these young minds are clearly developing. Excited to see them turn thought into action and become future changemakers.

Space exploration is humanity’s endless frontier. While Hong Kong isn’t a traditional aerospace hub, its global connectivity and research strength position it to grow as an global innovation hub—especially through commercial space initiatives. I’m honored to join the Hong Kong (International) Aerospace Charitable Foundation as Vice Chairman, alongside an incredible Astronomy Science Committee featuring experts from HKU, CUHK, HKUST, and beyond. With advisors like Prof. Luis Ho, we’re launching a new journey in space education and philanthropy. Hong Kong is ready to embrace the space economy—and we have the talent to lead it.