Following is a video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Global Youth Powerhouse Summit 2026 today (October 5):
 
Dr Kevin Lau (Founding Convenor of the Hong Kong Youth Professional Global Advocacy), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good morning. It is my pleasure to address you virtually at the Global Youth Powerhouse Summit 2026.
 
     I would like to begin by thanking the Hong Kong Youth Professional Global Advocacy, for bringing together young professionals from across the Greater Bay Area, Southeast Asia and beyond to connect, learn and lead. 
 
     The theme of this year's Summit, "Where Young Leaders Forge Hong Kong's Next Chapter", is a fitting description of our development. The younger generation is not only the beneficiary of our reforms; it is also the driving force behind them.
 
     The world is fast-changing. Geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advances and economic uncertainties are reshaping the landscape for your generation. Hong Kong thrives on changes, and always emerges stronger from challenges. Under "one country, two systems", we are uniquely placed to bridge the Mainland and the world. Our role has always been that of a "super connector" and a "super value-adder", linking markets and people, and turning connections into opportunities and growth. As the country goes from strength to strength, Hong Kong's role matters more than ever.
 
     For you, Hong Kong is where careers are built, talent is nurtured, and global horizons are within reach. To chart a clear path forward, we announced Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan and released the 2026 Policy Address last month, proactively aligning Hong Kong's growth with the country's development strategies. Both put young people at the centre, focusing on nurturing your growth and ambitions.
 
     Key to our development as a city is the Northern Metropolis. This piece of land takes up one-third of Hong Kong's area, and will potentially be home to a third of our population. More than a new engine of growth, it will become a place to live, work, play, and shape your future. It will also become a major platform for Hong Kong in integrating into and serving the overall national development.
 
     At its heart are three university towns in San Tin, Hung Shui Kiu and Ta Kwu Ling, each with its own focus, where education, technology, industry, talent and a suitable living environment converge. Each will integrate talent cultivation, scientific research, transformation of outcomes and industry development. Government, industry, academia, research and investment will work in close partnership.
 
     We are also developing six dedicated industry parks across the Northern Metropolis, covering innovation and technology, advanced manufacturing, modern logistics and more. These parks will attract enterprises from around the world, bringing high-value jobs and real opportunities for young professionals.
 
     Beyond the Northern Metropolis, we are opening doors around the world. We are launching a two-year, 30 000-place Youth Employment and Internship Programme with the business sector, providing jobs and internship places across various sectors. The new United Nations (UN) Youth Leaders Internship Programme will offer placements at UN agencies.
 
     On the Mainland, we will expand internship and training schemes in finance, aerospace and cutting-edge research. These are concrete pathways open to young people today, to nurture our leaders of tomorrow.
 
     For our young people, I firmly believe that your opportunities ahead outweigh the difficulties. The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government will join hands with all sectors to build platforms for you to thrive in Hong Kong, in our country, and in the global arena.
 
     I wish the Summit every success, and all of you the very best in your endeavours. Thank you.

Ends/Monday, October 5, 2026
Issued at HKT 10:30

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