Chief Executive John Lee today outlined specific measures in his Policy Address to reinforce Hong Kong’s strategic position, concentrating heavily on driving the city’s growth as an innovation and technology (I&T) centre and an international education hub under the framework of the “Four Centres and One Hub”.
To develop Hong Kong into an international I&T centre, the Government will establish a new Task Group on Frontier Technology.
The administration is taking comprehensive action to co-ordinate the application and risk governance of artificial intelligence (AI) by appointing a Commissioner for AI, promoting AI adoption across key sectors and implementing a seven-point risk-governance strategy.
In aerospace, a new Special Call on Aerospace Technology will support national space missions.
Additionally, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization will establish its first Asia-Pacific centre of excellence on global advanced manufacturing in Hong Kong by the second quarter of next year.
To drive growth of the low-altitude economy, an Action Plan will launch cross-boundary logistics trial flights and initiate drafting legislation for heavy unconventional aircraft.
In parallel, the Government is deepening the development of Hong Kong as an international education hub to power the city’s talent ecosystem.
To support non-local talent retention, the pilot arrangement allowing graduates from the GBA campuses of Hong Kong universities to seek employment in Hong Kong under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates will be extended for two years.
The administration is also actively expanding student accommodation by putting the first dedicated student hostel site up for sale within this financial year and supporting the Hong Kong Direct Subsidy Scheme Schools Council to formulate a Code of Practice for Operating Student Hostels.
Furthermore, sites in the Northern Metropolis or other areas will be allocated next year for international school development.
Visit Chapter III of the Chief Executive’s Policy Address for more details.