News

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.

Honored to witness 27-year legacy of cross-regional synergy in the Shanghai-HK-Macau Youth Economic Development Forum. Over 300 youth leaders explored new drivers of the youth economy through culture, tourism, sports, and innovation. From AI to biomedicine, Gen Z voices showed deep strategic insight and bold creativity.

A delegation from the Kuwait Foundation for the Development of Science and Kuwait University recently visited CUHK. Vice-President Professor Mei-Ha Sham, along with four deans, engaged in in-depth discussions, with me in attendance. Both sides focused on cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, environmental science, and social innovation. We showcased Hong Kong's research capabilities, integrating engineering R&D with clinical applications, including a multi-scale robotics platform for diagnosis and treatment. This cross-regional, cross-cultural, and interdisciplinary dialogue fosters knowledge sharing and academic connections, injecting new impetus into higher education and societal development. We look forward to CUHK and academic institutions in Kuwait collaborating on impactful collaborative projects to promote regional and global innovation.

This summer at CUHK, we welcomed exchange groups from East China Normal University, Beijing Foreign Studies University, and Xiamen University. One unforgettable moment: mainland students arriving late at night during a No. 10 typhoon signal—undaunted by the storm, driven by a passion for learning. From Hong Kong’s public administration to global affairs, our discussions went far beyond textbooks. These exchanges spark ideas, challenge perspectives, and build lasting connections.Wishing all participants continued success—keep shining and shaping the future

Public governance, diplomacy, and regional cooperation may seem distant from everyday youth experiences. But with the right policy training, Hong Kong’s young leaders are already leaving their mark in these fields. Through our Model LegCo programme, students debated the professionalization of Hong Kong’s sports talent under the guidance of Legislative Councillor Edward Leung, sharpening their policy analysis and stakeholder coordination skills. In the Youth Diplomacy Summer School, participants tackled real-world global challenges in a 24-hour crisis simulation, learning to mobilize diplomatic resources under pressure. And with Model PECC, students stepped into the shoes of Asia-Pacific negotiators, experiencing firsthand the dynamics of regional economic cooperation. Most rewarding of all? Witnessing these young minds transform learning into action—supported by the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Committee for Pacific Economic Cooperation. Together, we’re building a generation ready to lead with insight, empathy, and impact.

Honored to celebrate the graduation of two leadership programmes at the Hong Kong Academy of Politics and Public Administration. As Secretary for Justice Paul Lam said, “Politics is the art of balance.” Our graduates showed empathy, consensus-building, and clarity—skills Hong Kong needs for future governance. Excited to see them lead with purpose across sectors and borders.