John Lee and delegation to head for Belt and Road forum to promote Hong Kong's strengths

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said he would proactively share with the international community about Hong Kong's strengths on various fronts as he set to lead a 70-strong SAR delegation to participate in the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing on Monday (Oct 16).

Lee noted in an interview with Hong Kong China News Agency that he and the delegation will strive to showcase the city's commitment to contribute to the joint development of the Belt and Road Initiative as advocated by the country.

He said that Hong Kong could capitalize on its unique advantages as a participant, contributor, and beneficiary of the Belt and Road Initiative to bring together a variety of professions that can provide strong support for the high-quality development of the plan.

"I am honoured to lead the high-level delegation to proactively take part in the Forum," he added.

The delegation includes 11 principal government officials, such as Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, ICAC Commissioner Woo Ying-ming, Director of the Chief Executive's Office Carol Yip Man-kuen, and Commissioner for Belt and Road Nicholas Ho Lik-chi.

It also comprises 59 members from the political, business, professional services as well as cultural sectors. That includes the Bar Association's chair Victor Dawes, New World Development's CEO Adrian Cheng Chi-kong, Executive Council's convener Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee, and founder of the Lan Kwai Fong Group Allan Zeman.

Lee said the delegation will proactively promote Hong Kong's role as the prime functional platform in promoting the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, its professional services, and the unique advantage of enjoying strong support from the country and being closely connected to the world. 

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative and the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will be held in Beijing from Tuesday (Oct 17) to Wednesday (Oct 18).