Speech by SITI at Opening Ceremony and Science Symposium of 2026 Future Science Prize Week (English only) (with photo)
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Professor Dennis Lo (President of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences), Professor Vivian Yam (Co-chair of the Programme Committee of 2026 Future Science Prize Week Professor Yam Wing-wah), Professor Yaghi (2025 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, Professor Omar Yaghi), distinguished guests and speakers, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. I am delighted to join you all today at the Opening Ceremony and Science Symposium of the 2026 Future Science Prize (FSP) Week in Hong Kong.
Over the years, the FSP Week has brought world-renowned scientists to share their scientific discoveries and bring cutting-edge topics to a wider community. I am pleased to witness Hong Kong hosting the Prize Week for the fourth consecutive year. In the fields of chemistry, physics and mathematics, I believe the Symposium today will demonstrate the far-reaching potential of fundamental research, not only in expanding the boundaries of human knowledge, but also in opening up new possibilities for technological innovation.
Hong Kong is working at full steam to advance our innovation and technology (I&T) development. The Government's First Five-Year Plan targets to establish Hong Kong to become an international I&T centre based in the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area, serving the entire country and connected to the world, after 2030. We will continue to consolidate the research strengths of our universities, the State Key Laboratories and InnoHK research clusters, supporting them in conducting basic and applied research for the needs of Hong Kong, our nation and the world. We also encourage real-life application and commercialisation of research outcomes. By exploring the establishment of the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Application Scenario Promotion Centre, we aim to match the application scenario needs of both public and private sectors, and the innovative technological solutions provided by I&T enterprises, helping companies align with industry standards and go global.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong is steadfast in its vision to develop frontier and future technologies. We will set up a new Task Group on Frontier Technology to plan for the development of technologies covering AI, quantum, aerospace and other emerging areas to explore technology and industry development.
International co-operation and talent attraction also play a part. We are strengthening support for recruitment of R&D (research and development) talent through the Research Talent Hub Scheme. To foster international co‑operation and attract top overseas scientists to Hong Kong, we have launched the Frontier Technology Research Support Scheme. Through these efforts, we are building a vibrant and internationally connected research community where scientific talent can pursue their long-term research careers in Hong Kong.
Ladies and gentlemen, scientific discovery often begins with an individual question, but progress depends on curiosity, perseverance and collective efforts of scientists across generations. This is precisely the value of the FSP Week. I hope the discussions over the coming days will stimulate fresh perspectives, foster meaningful research collaboration and inspire further scientific discoveries.
I wish the 2026 Future Science Prize Week every success and all participants a rewarding and fruitful exchange. Thank you.
Ends/Friday, November 6, 2026
Issued at HKT 10:58
Issued at HKT 10:58
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