Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by CE at International Women’s Day Reception 2026
Allow me to address our English-speaking friends. Today, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a day of profound significance around the world. We are here this morning to honour the global contributions of women and to recognise the inspiring vision, leadership and resilience of women in our community.
Hong Kong women enrich different aspects of our society. Over the years, in so many ways, women have challenged prejudices, erased boundaries and embraced opportunities. And done so through remarkable achievements in government, business, the professions, academia, the arts, innovation, family life, and so much more. Women are a powerful source of energy for social progress, women’s talent and determination are essential to Hong Kong’s continuing success.
Last October, China, our country, hosted the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing. The international gathering brought together leaders and experts from around the world to advance gender equality and the cause of women everywhere. At the Meeting, President Xi Jinping noted that “women play an important role in creating, promoting and carrying forward human civilisation, and the international community has a shared responsibility to advance the cause of women”.
Our country has long championed women’s development, upholding gender equality as a fundamental policy priority. With the nation’s support and a widening global vision, women in the Hong Kong SAR have been able to pursue their dreams and realise their full potential.
The Government has worked closely with the Women’s Commission to expand opportunities for women. One of our flagship events, held in 2024, was the inaugural Family and Women Development Summit.
The second Summit will take place this month, on March 31. And I look forward to the enthusiastic participation of our partners across the community.
I’ve just shared in Cantonese about four traditional Chinese silk fabrics and how they resemble the qualities of Hong Kong women. Each fabric has its own character: one represents clarity and poise with which you balance family and career; another symbolises inclusive spirit, bringing people together and building consensus.
These four fabrics – clarity, inclusivity, resilience, and grace – are woven into the daily lives of women here in Hong Kong. They are the threads of women’s character. And my hope, ladies, is that you will continue to illuminate every corner of this city with that same remarkable spirit.
I wish you all an inspiring International Women’s Day, and continued happiness, health and success. Thank you! 多謝大家。
Issued at HKT 11:55
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