Enhancing laws and legal system 'needed to thrive'

Hong Kong should connect with different jurisdictions and have more international legal organizations established under the support of China, says Beijing's top diplomat in the city.

Liu Guangyuan, the commissioner of the foreign ministry's office, spoke at the five-day Hong Kong Legal Week that kicked off with the one-day Asia-Pacific Private International Law Summit at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The annual flagship event of the Department of Justice gathers prominent experts, practitioners, government officials, academics and the elite from diverse sectors around the world to share their insights on an array of legal topics.

Liu said rule of law is "the most effective and reliable governance method to ensure the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong."

It also facilitates the SAR's status as a super-connector among different jurisdictions, he said, adding that more international legal organizations will set up offices in Hong Kong with the support of the central government.

"A society cannot be well governed without constant updates of the law, which has been proved in Hong Kong," Liu said. He noted that some time ago, one country, two systems was just a concept, but it has now been "successfully practiced for 25 years."

He added: "We must continue to improve our judicial and constitutional systems."

Liu said China will continue to collaborate with other countries to uphold the United Nations charter and international law to defend justice and promote multilateral relations.

In a video speech, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said rule of law is "a core value of our society and the cornerstone of Hong Kong's success," adding the Basic Law ensures the judiciary's independent judicial power.

Lee said President Xi Jinping has made it "crystal clear" that the central government fully supports Hong Kong in maintaining the common law.

"With the strong support of our country, the International Organization for Mediation Preparatory Office will be established in Hong Kong," he said.

The intergovernmental organization initiated by China will provide friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services for international disputes.

Lee said the office will open next year. He added: "Choosing Hong Kong as the location for this preparatory office signifies a vote of confidence in the city's strength as an international legal and dispute resolution services center in the Asia Pacific region."

Lee said the recent international summits and events held in Hong Kong have shown that the city is back on the international stage.

"Last week, we welcomed top financiers around the globe. This week, we welcome distinguished legal professionals to Hong Kong Legal Week," Lee said.

"Our message is clear: Hong Kong is back.

"Our talent are ready to offer the world the best of their professional services, in commercial law, arbitration and intellectual property trading, as well as in finance, shipping and technology."

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com