Month: April 2025

Speech by FS at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future (English only)
Professor Francis Gurry (Vice-Chairman of the World Internet Conference), (Secretary General  of the World Internet Conference, Mr Ren Xianliang),  (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Qi Bin), (Chief Engineer of the Cyberspace Administration of China, Ms Sun Weimin), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure to join you all at the Asia-Pacific Summit of the World Internet Conference. The WIC has long served as a vital platform for global dialogue, enabling policymakers, business leaders, scholars and innovators to come together and explore the digital challenges and opportunities of our time, and to find new ways of working together. It is an honour for Hong Kong to host this event for the first time.

The global digital landscape

The Internet stands as the most transformative force of connection of our time.  It is also a story of continuous reinvention, from static content in Web 1.0 to social media, e-commerce in Web 2.0, and to the age of Web 3.0 underpinned by blockchain technologies. Coupled with artificial intelligence (AI), this next-generation Internet is once again transforming the way we live and do business. AI-powered tools are enabling governments and businesses to deliver smarter and more responsive services. Decentralised finance and tokenisation, for example, are substantially reducing the cost and improving the efficiency of financial and business transactions.

The digital era today has created significant opportunities for new entrants.  Consider the DeepSeek Moment. While global headlines often focus on the AI rivalry between the two great nations, it also reminds us of the innovative prowess and agility of startups, and the multiple pathways to technological progress. It has opened up a future where development will not be decided simply by size or resources, but also by creativity and the courage to pursue visionary ideas.

Despite the enormous progress, equitable digital access remains a global issue.  Today, nearly one-third of the world’s population – or some 2.6 billion people – are still offline. For these communities, the absence of digital access means fewer opportunities for education, economic advancement and social inclusion.

Governments and regulators worldwide are also facing mounting challenges such as cybersecurity, data privacy and complexities of cross-border regulatory arbitrage. For example, it is estimated that cybercrime could cost the global economy over US$10 trillion in 2025 alone.  This amount, ironically, exceeds the GDP of most nations. Yet, across jurisdictions, governance frameworks are still struggling to keep pace with the speed of technological change.

Currently, a more urgent concern is digital fragmentation. The trade war initiated by the United States is likely to extend beyond tariffs.  We can foresee more barriers, “larger yards” and “higher walls”, which could stifle innovation and jeopardise global technological progress.

Hong Kong’s vision

Ladies and gentlemen, now allow me to turn to Hong Kong.  How can we navigate these complex global dynamics to foster a more inclusive and interconnected digital environment?  I hope our perspectives and experience can contribute to the current discussions on global digital development.

Our digital strategy is founded on the principles of openness and global connectivity. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, we champion the free flow of data and information – just as we do with goods and capital – as a cornerstone of our competitiveness and status as a free and open economy.

To seize new opportunities brought by the digital economy and address the associated challenges, we need a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy. That’s why, over the past two years, the HKSAR Government has put in place a concrete action plan, covering such areas as digital infrastructure and governance, digital transformation, cross-boundary flow of data and talent development.

A key part of this strategy is to enhance economic inclusiveness through digitalisation. For example, we are supporting SMEs in their digital transformation.  At the same time, we have strengthened the sharing of data held by government departments with financial institutions, on a consent basis, to enhance the efficiency of credit assessments.

Another strategic objective is to unlock the full value of data. Hong Kong’s unique position as a convergence point for both Mainland and international data gives us a distinct advantage. This will help us not only in developing data-driven industries such as AI and health tech but also a data trading market in Hong Kong.

As we enter the “AI+” era, we will develop AI as a core industry for Hong Kong by the deep integration of AI across industries.  Our efforts  focus on five key fronts: computing power, algorithms, data, capital and talent.  With our international connectivity, we also aim to position Hong Kong as a global hub for AI exchange, promoting dialogues, research collaboration and thought leadership.

A shared future in cyberspace

Ladies and gentlemen, looking forward, we believe there are several key priorities that must be addressed at the global level to ensure the healthy and inclusive development of the Internet.

The first is digital governance. As emerging technologies become more powerful and pervasive, our regulatory frameworks must evolve accordingly, addressing issues such as cybersecurity, data privacy and ethical use of AI.  In Hong Kong, we advocate for a balanced, pro-innovation regulatory approach, putting in place appropriate safeguards while encouraging innovation.  Our approach to Web 3 and digital assets is a good case in point.

The second is bridging the digital divide. For many developing economies, digital access is a powerful enabler for inclusive growth – improving education, expanding financial inclusion and enhancing public service delivery. I’m glad to report that in Hong Kong, many of our startups have developed innovative and robust solutions in these areas.  They are eager to share their technologies with emerging economies.

The third is talent development. In the age of AI, digital literacy is no longer optional – it is essential. This imperative goes beyond formal education and calls for partnerships between the public and private sectors. In Hong Kong, we are working closely with leading tech companies – including Tencent, Alibaba, Lenovo, SenseTime, and startups at Science Park and Cyberport – to deliver technology training and share their entrepreneurial experience with students. Our aim is to cultivate the interest of the next generation and prepare them for a dynamic and innovation-led future.

Concluding remarks

Ladies and gentlemen, the challenges and opportunities of the digital age transcend borders. In this era of rapid technological transformation, what we need is more dialogue, sharing and co-operation so that we can drive the development in Internet, AI and other emerging technologies for the common good of humanity.

On that note, I wish this Summit every success, and I hope each of you will find the discussions ahead insightful, productive and inspiring. Thank you very much.
Issued at HKT 16:36

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Director Xia Baolong to attend Opening Ceremony of National Security Education Day on April 15 organised by Committee for Safeguarding National Security of HKSAR via video link 
April 15, 2025 (Tuesday) is the 10th National Security Education Day. It carries profound significance as this year also marks the fifth anniversary of the promulgation by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPCSC) for implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, as well as the first anniversary of the legislation and implementation of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. The Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) (the Hong Kong National Security Committee) will hold the Opening Ceremony cum Seminar of the National Security Education Day at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre that morning.
 
The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Xia Baolong, will attend the opening ceremony and deliver a keynote speech via video link. The Chief Executive of the HKSAR and Chairman of the Hong Kong National Security Committee, Mr John Lee, extends his very warm welcome and expresses sincere gratitude to Director Xia Baolong for his care, guidance and support for Hong Kong all along.
 
Mr Lee pointed out, “The National Security Law of the People’s Republic of China, which was passed by the NPCSC in 2015, legally confirms the guiding status of a holistic approach to national security and designates the 15th of April each year as the National Security Education Day. April 15, 2025 marks the 10th National Security Education Day, and it holds profound significance since this year is also the fifth anniversary of the promulgation by the NPCSC for implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, as well as the first anniversary of the legislation and implementation of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.
 
“At present, the world is undergoing unprecedented changes at an accelerating pace. The geopolitical landscape is getting complicated, regional conflicts are frequent, global economic growth is slowing down, and unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, all contributing to increasing global instability. With Hong Kong faced with ever-changing national security risks, the HKSAR Government will resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle, deepen the understanding of a holistic approach to national security, continuously improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, and actively promote national security education across society.
 
“The Hong Kong National Security Committee organises the opening ceremony of the National Security Education Day and co-ordinates a series of school and community activities, which help to promote national security education, encourage community-wide participation, and continuously strengthen the community’s awareness and atmosphere of safeguarding national security of their own accord.
 
“While we strive on all fronts to develop a vibrant economy, advance development and improve people’s livelihood, we must also make every effort to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, so as to contribute more to the country’s opening-up at a higher level.”
Issued at HKT 12:30

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Speech by CE at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit (English only) (with photo) 
Honourable Wang Yong (Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference), Honourable Zhuang Rongwen (Minister of the Cyberspace Administration of China), Honourable Zheng Yanxiong (Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Honourable Ren Xianliang (Secretary General of the World Internet Conference), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
Good morning. I’m delighted to welcome you to Hong Kong, and the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit.
 
And I am honoured to say that the Asia-Pacific Summit, taking place over these next two days in Hong Kong, marks the first time the World Internet Conference has held an international summit outside Mainland China.
 
That, ladies and gentlemen, is a testament to Hong Kong’s rising role as an international innovation and technology hub. It also reflects our deepening integration with our country’s national development.   
 
That will become abundantly clear over these next two days. Like the World Internet Conference itself, this Summit offers high-level dialogue for the global internet community – for you – the nearly 1 000 professionals here from 30 countries and regions.
 
You are senior government officials and business leaders, industry association heads, academics and researchers and professionals from different disciplines. And you’re here to expand your international connections, create business opportunities and help build the interconnected digital future.
 
Hong Kong’s rise as an I&T hub has been fast-tracked by our vibrant economy, which is powered by free trade and boasts the world’s third-largest financial centre. It helps, too, that Hong Kong has long been a key business conduit between the Mainland and the rest of the world.
 
And it all comes together under our unique “one country, two systems” framework.
 
This cardinal governing principle gives Hong Kong the best of both worlds: access to the vast opportunities of the Mainland market, while maintaining the advantages of our unmatched connectivity of our common law system, free flow of information, capital, goods and people. This unmatched connectivity has brought you here.
 
There are many good examples. A shining example is the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou science and technology cluster, which ranks second, globally, in the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index. It shows how, with the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, we can converge Hong Kong’s excellent research and development and world-class, international business environment, with the innovative prowess of the Mainland’s technology industry.
 
We are building Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, which straddles the small river that separates Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The Hong Kong Park within this Co-operation Zone smartly embodies the virtues of the “one country, two systems” principle and cross-boundary co-operation.
 
Last month, I attended the topping-out ceremony for the Park’s first three buildings – two wet laboratories and a talent accommodation complex. The Park will enter its operational phase this year, with the first tenants – from life and health technology, artificial intelligence, to data science and other pillar industries – moving in.
 
The development of another five buildings is in full swing. We have earmarked some US$500 million to expedite the Park’s two-phase development.
 
We need, of course, strategic companies and talent to take full advantage of the Park’s opportunities – and other of Hong Kong’s far-reaching prospects. And we’re getting them. Under the enhanced talent admission regime we rolled out in 2022, we have already approved more than 300 000 talent admission applications. Over 200 000 of them, i.e. two-thirds, have already arrived here.
 
Meanwhile, over 80 strategic enterprises from around the world in the booming industries of life and health technology, AI and data science, fintech and more, have joined us. They will invest over US$6 million and create over 20 000 jobs here in the coming years.
 
The Park is situated in the Northern Metropolis, an entirely new economic engine for Hong Kong. The Northern Metropolis, which makes up one-third of Hong Kong’s area, straddles our land boundary with Shenzhen.
 
I’m confident that our collaborative efforts with Shenzhen, and throughout the Greater Bay Area, will see the rise of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone as a world-class I&T hub, creating a critical source of new quality productive forces for the country.
 
AI is central to Hong Kong Park’s research and development. It’s no less central to Hong Kong’s future.
 
In December last year, the first phase of Cyberport’s AI Supercomputing Centre became operational. Hong Kong’s digital technology flagship, Cyberport is home to more than 330 start-ups specialising in AI and big data.
 
Hong Kong is determined to maximise AI’s immense potential for new industrialisation, and to further society’s digital transformation.
 
We have, for example, set up funding schemes to help local manufacturers switch to smart manufacturing and strategic industries to establish smart production facilities here in Hong Kong. 
 
And our HK$10 billion I&T Industry-Oriented Fund, amounting to nearly US$1.3 billion, channels market capital to invest in industries of strategic importance, including AI and robotics. 
 
There’s more.  We aim to establish, by the next financial year, the Hong Kong AI R&D Institute, having reserved nearly US$130 million to get it up and running. The Institute will spearhead Hong Kong’s R&D and drive AI-based industrial applications.
 
AI will also promote smart government. Not only driving document digitalisation and automation, and payments and business processes, but, more important, how we go about making policy and delivering public services.
 
All that, and much more, will fuel discussion and debate at today’s main forum and the three sub-forums taking place tomorrow.
 
This Summit matters. Co-operation matters. Especially during these challenging times to geopolitics and trade relations. Hong Kong champions free trade and multilateralism. We believe in teamwork and offer a range of welcoming programmes for investors, companies, researchers and other strategic talent. Hong Kong welcomes all business interests from those who are keen to pursue development with us. In this global city, we will make a decided difference for you, and your future.
 
I am grateful to the World Internet Conference for hosting the Asia-Pacific Summit here in Hong Kong. Grateful, too, to our Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and other government offices for organising this high-profile global event.
 
I wish you all an inspiring Summit, and the best of business, and health, through this endlessly challenging, but promising, year.
 
Thank you.
Issued at HKT 12:00

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Temporary suspension of LCSD’s Mobile Library 3 services 
     The affected service points are Prime View Garden, Siu Hong Court, Shan King Estate, Sam Shing Estate, Leung King Estate and Fu Tai Estate in Tuen Mun; Kingswood Country Club and Tin Ching Estate in Tin Shui Wai; and Sheung Tsuen Park, Wang Chau, San Tin, Long Shin Estate and Fairview Park in Yuen Long. For enquiries about Mobile Library 3 services, please call 2450 1857.
 
     Readers are welcome to use other public libraries during the service suspension period. They may also renew library materials by telephoning 2698 0002 or 2827 2833, or via www.hkpl.gov.hkIssued at HKT 12:00

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