Hong Kong Chief Executive Unveils Plan to Strengthen Ties with Mainland and Boost Global Connectivity

Chief Executive John Lee announced a comprehensive set of measures in his Policy Address to align Hong Kong more closely with national development. The blueprint focuses on deepening the city’s integration into the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and expanding international exchanges under the Belt & Road Initiative. Key actions include supporting high‑quality cooperation platforms in Qianhai and Nansha, positioning Qianhai as a liaison point for legal and professional services, and backing Nansha as a national pilot for climate investment and financing. Lee also said Hong Kong will help draft national hydrogen‑energy standards, launch the Green Technology Bridgehead Programme to export green solutions, and raise the B&R Scholarship quota to 200 places for the 2027‑28 academic year. The government will deepen cooperation with the International Chamber of Commerce, host the upcoming Asia‑Pacific Economic Cooperation Finance Ministers’ Meeting in October, and continue to host flagship events to cement Hong Kong’s status as an international financial rule‑maker.