The central government will continue to roll out policies favorable to Hong Kong to support its better integration into the nation's overall development, a spokesman for the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress said.
Speaking in a press conference on Wednesday (Mar 4), spokesman Lou Qinjian praised Hong Kong's development over the past year, stating that the city has “taken new strides in advancing from stability to prosperity.”
He attributed these achievements to strong central government support and the leadership of the Hong Kong government in focusing on economic growth and development.
Lou highlighted several key accomplishments, noting that the city's position as an international financial center has solidified, with Hong Kong ranking third globally in the Global Financial Centres Index.
The spokesman also emphasized Hong Kong's open and efficient business environment, which ranks first globally in economic freedom, while the recent establishment of the headquarters of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong further demonstrates the city's unique advantages.
In innovation and technology sectors, Lou noted a record high in the number of companies with overseas or Mainland parent companies set up operations in the city, which has contributed to a growing talent pool, with Hong Kong's world talent ranking climbing to fourth globally and first in Asia.
Looking ahead, Lou reaffirmed the central government's commitment to unwaveringly implementing the "One Country, Two Systems" principle.
He revealed that the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan will include specific measures to support Hong Kong in consolidating and enhancing its status as an international financial, shipping, and trade center.
The plan will also back the city's development into an international innovation and technology hub and a premier destination for attracting top global talent.
