Following is the video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Opening Ceremony of the New Premises of the Law Society of Hong Kong today (April 8):

Mr Roden Tong (President of the Law Society of Hong Kong), Council members, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

     I am pleased to join you today at the Opening Ceremony of the New Premises of the Law Society of Hong Kong. I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Law Society of Hong Kong, on the opening of your new premises, as well as the 119th anniversary of your incorporation.

     Since its establishment in 1907, the Law Society of Hong Kong has carried the important mission of regulating and promoting the development of solicitors in Hong Kong. A new home for the Law Society symbolises more than just a change of address or enhanced facilities. It represents the vitality, the growth, as well as the enduring strength of Hong Kong's legal sector. It is a milestone for the remarkable commitment of the Law Society, and the impact its over 13 500 members make in our community. 

     As the self-regulatory body of solicitors in Hong Kong, the Law Society has, for many years, made indispensable contributions to upholding professional standards, ensuring proper administration of justice, promoting greater access to legal services, and nurturing legal talent. These efforts are instrumental in enhancing public confidence in the rule of law. 

     The rule of law and our legal system are the cornerstone of Hong Kong's success. Under the unique "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong enjoys unparalleled connectivity with both the Mainland and the world. We are the only common law jurisdiction within China, our country. Our common law legal system is similar to that in many global financial hubs, and is the only one that has a bilingual legal framework in both the Chinese and English languages. Our courts exercise independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. Our legal professionals are known around the world for their integrity, versatility and professionalism.

     These are not just features of our system. They give us the distinctive advantage in connecting our country with the world, and are the bedrock of our success as an international financial, shipping and trade centre. Our legal profession, the membership of the Law Society very much included, plays an indispensable role in maintaining this system. You advise businesses, protect individual rights, facilitate transactions and uphold justice. Your work ensures that Hong Kong continues to thrive as a world city where contracts are honoured, disputes are resolved fairly, and the rule of law prevails.

     Last month, the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress approved the National 15th Five-Year Plan. The Plan affirms the country's upholding of the "one country, two systems" principle, supporting Hong Kong's proactive integration into and service of the overall national development. It also supports Hong Kong in deepening its development as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre. 

     We have already made significant progress in this direction. The International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) formally opened its headquarters in Hong Kong last year. This puts Hong Kong at the heart of global dispute resolution. The IOMed enhances our status as a premier venue for mediation, arbitration and legal services, and opens new opportunities for our legal professionals to engage with the international community.

     I am pleased to note that the Law Society has been active in assisting Mainland enterprises in going global, while providing professional support for international investors coming to Hong Kong. I encourage all legal professionals here to continue your efforts in showing the world Hong Kong’s strengths in its internationalised, high-standard, and highly credible legal and dispute resolution services.

     I look forward to the legal profession's proactive alignment with the 15th Five-Year Plan, which will bring about boundless opportunities for the industry. For members of the Law Society, I am confident that you will continue to uphold your professionalism, seize the vast opportunities in our country's development strategies, and contribute to Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.

     Once again, my congratulations to the Law Society. I wish the Law Society of Hong Kong continued success and growth in the new premises, scaling new heights in the service of justice and the community. Thank you very much.

Ends/Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Issued at HKT 12:30

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