Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Finance Ministers' Meeting 2026 Welcome Dinner today (October 20):

Honourable Minister Lan Fo'an (Minister of Finance), honourable ministers and officials, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

     Good evening. It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to Hong Kong, this year's APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting and tonight's welcome dinner.

     This is a historic occasion for Hong Kong. The APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting - part of APEC China 2026 - is taking place in our city for the very first time. We are honoured to support this significant international event, which brings together the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, representing some three billion people and accounting for over 60 per cent of global GDP.

     For more than three decades, APEC has demonstrated the power of dialogue and co-operation, promoting economic growth and improving people's lives across the region.

     The Finance Ministers' Meeting holds a special place within that mission.

     Whether it's financing the infrastructure of the future, expanding access to financial services, or helping younger generations thrive in a rapidly changing global economy, these are issues that transcend boundaries - that call for collective solutions.

     Together, we seek to build economies that are more resilient, innovative and inclusive, to create continuing opportunities for our businesses, communities and future generations.

     These aspirations reflect Hong Kong's own goals.

     Under the unique "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country, and have a legal and regulatory regime similar to most of the world's top financial hubs.

     For those of you who are familiar with the Chinese language, you may know that our city's name, Hong Kong, literally means "fragrant harbour". And what a harbour we are, with our world-class shipping services and over a century's experience as a free port.

     A founding member of the World Trade Organization, Hong Kong champions free trade and maintains a zero-tariff policy, a simple and low tax regime, and a stable, secure, fair and predictable business environment for a world of investors and professionals.

     These contribute to Hong Kong's status as a global financial centre. And we are committed to strengthening Hong Kong's roles as a global offshore Renminbi business hub, an international asset and wealth management centre, and an international risk management centre.

     We are also advancing our development of commodity trading and high value-added supply chain services, while promoting green, digital and other financial services.

     All thanks to Hong Kong's resilient and multi-talented professionals, who are well versed in the business language and practice of both our country and the world. Their professionalism helps to put Hong Kong in the fourth place, globally, and first in Asia, in the World Talent Ranking of the International Institute for Management Development. 

     Hong Kong is proud to be the only city in the world that counts as many as five universities in the global top 100. And our institutions will continue to nurture our leaders of tomorrow.

     Talking about the future, a highlight in our development is the Northern Metropolis, which is fast becoming Hong Kong's new economic engine.

     The Northern Metropolis is connected to the enterprising and innovative Mainland city of Shenzhen, where the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting is set to take place next month. The Northern Metropolis will become an innovation and technology hub, and home to three university towns, integrating education, technology and talent.

     No less important, it will help to deepen collaboration in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a cluster city development that brings together Hong Kong, Shenzhen and nine southern cities, and has a combined GDP that rivals the world's 10th largest economy.

     Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong has long been a meeting point of cultures, ideas and traditions, where East and West come together to create a distinctive and dynamic global city.

     This evening offers a glimpse of that cultural spirit - in the authentic local flavours featured in tonight's dinner and drinks. And in this evening's entertainment, which presents a resplendent taste of Chinese culture, from the harmony of Chinese martial arts, to the melody of our folk music.

     We are also pleased to give you a delicious taste of Hong Kong, beyond this dining room, with our visit programmes featuring a wealth of arts and culture, technology and our storied Victoria Harbour.

     On that note, I wish the APEC community continued prosperity with ever-growing openness, innovation and co-operation. And I wish you all a rewarding Finance Ministers' Meeting, and a memorable stay in Hong Kong.

     Thank you.

Ends/Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Issued at HKT 20:30

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