The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, continued to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, yesterday (January 17, Davos time).

     In the morning, Mr Chan participated in the Special Address delivered by Vice Premier of the State Council Mr Liu He. Thereafter, he attended the Davos-Caixin CEO Luncheon and delivered a speech on "Unleashing the Full Potential of Asia: Scenarios and Opportunities". Mr Chan pointed out that Hong Kong is quickly returning to normalcy from the pandemic, and as the Mainland has speeded up its opening, the economy this year will pick up growth. With the advantages of "one country, two systems" and the firm support of the country, Hong Kong is the only place where the China advantages and the international advantages converge. In many different areas such as financial services and innovation and technology, Hong Kong plays the role of connecting the Mainland and the world, thereby actively contributing to the prosperity and sustained development of Asia.

     Mr Chan also had a breakfast meeting with the senior management of financial institutions in Europe and Japan, and elaborated Hong Kong's latest development, systemic strengths and bright prospects.

     Mr Chan also met with the Chairman of Lenovo, Mr Yang Yuanqing, as well as the Chief Executive Officer of Envision Group, Mr Zhang Lei. Mr Chan explained the prevailing economic situation and opportunities, and Hong Kong's latest policies in innovation and technology as well as attracting strategic enterprises and talents. Mr Chan also met with the Chairman of Bloomberg, Mr Peter Grauer, explaining in detail Hong Kong's new opportunities at a new phase of development. 

     In the evening, Mr Chan attended a dinner reception hosted by the Founder and Executive Chairman of WEF, Professor Klaus Schwab.

     Mr Chan will continue his visit to Davos today (January 18, Davos time).

Ends/Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Issued at HKT 9:00

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