Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Inauguration Ceremony of the International Organization for Mediation today (October 20):

Honourable Vice Minister Hua Chunying (Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs), Your Excellencies, representatives of contracting states, ministers and officials from around the world, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good morning. I am very honoured to join you today, for the inauguration of the International Organization for Mediation.

     I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to my country, China, for its steadfast support; and to the International Organization for Mediation's contracting states and signatory states, for their confidence in Hong Kong, as home to the Organization's headquarters.
 
     The headquarters is housed in this newly renovated building, a police station for almost a century. The renovation, completed within 14 months, harmoniously blends the building's historic origins with modern design, preserving architectural features, while drawing inspiration from Chinese porcelain.

     More than stone and mortar, this thoughtful transformation embodies the essential spirit of mediation – uniting diverse elements in balance and harmony, creating a place ideally suited for peaceful resolution.
 
     In these times of global instability, international mediation is indispensable for resolving disputes, preserving relationships and encouraging meaningful co-operation. With our world-class professional services, Hong Kong is dedicated to supporting the cause of dispute resolution.

     Under the unique "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. We pride ourselves with our established tradition of the rule of law, and a common law regime shared by many global financial hubs. Our three law schools are all ranked within the world's top 60, and nurture outstanding talent in legal and dispute resolution services.

     Our flagship legal event Hong Kong Legal Week, in December, will include a session on international mediation. And in 2026, during Hong Kong Mediation Week, we will organise a global mediation summit, bringing together mediation practitioners, policymakers and thought leaders from around the world.
 
     We are equally committed to capacity building. The Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy, launched last year by our Department of Justice, equips mediators and legal professionals with the skills to meet international standards.
 
     In my Policy Address last month, I announced the development of the Hong Kong International Legal Service Building, on a site adjacent to us here. It will provide additional facilities for the Organization, and be home to the International Legal Talents Training Academy.
 
     Ladies and gentlemen, today's inauguration is a testament of our shared commitment to a future in which dialogue, co-operation and mutual respect prevail over acrimony and conflict.
 
     As I said in May, at the signing of the convention establishing the Organization, Hong Kong builds bridges. We take pride in being a "super connector" and "super value-adder". And we are honoured to serve as the Organization's home.
 
     I am confident that, under the joint dedication of all contracting states and the Secretary‑General's stewardship, the International Organization for Mediation will rise as a respected and trusted body for resolving disputes through mutual respect and understanding.

     I wish the International Organization for Mediation every success.
 
     Thank you.

Ends/Monday, October 20, 2025
Issued at HKT 12:20

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