Hong Kong Chief Secretary for Administration Chen Ka-keung: The new "Policy Address" sets out a clear path for Hong Kong and creates new opportunities for economic development.

On September 17th, Hong Kong Chief Secretary for Administration Cheung Kin-chung met with the media regarding the "Policy Address of the Chief Executive in 2025", stating that the new "Policy Address" is dedicated to promoting higher quality economic development in Hong Kong and improving people's livelihood. It provides a clear path and specific action plans for Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and the well-being of its citizens. Under the unique advantages of "One Country, Two Systems," Hong Kong will move forward with a broader perspective and greater ambition in a clear and solid pace. He mentioned that this year's "Policy Address" focuses on the two main axes of economy and livelihood, with a greater determination to drive reform and progress. Through institutional innovation and policy breakthroughs, it aims to further consolidate and enhance Hong Kong's international competitiveness, inject new momentum into economic development, and create new opportunities. At the same time, the "Policy Address" fully demonstrates the current government led by the Chief Executive's commitment to a people-centered governance philosophy. The report proposes various measures to benefit the people, covering housing, transportation, healthcare, labor, poverty alleviation, elderly care, and other aspects, effectively addressing social demands, improving livelihoods, allowing citizens to share the fruits of development, and collectively building a more livable and warmer Hong Kong. He pointed out that this year's "Policy Address" includes at least five major categories worth paying attention to. Firstly, accelerating the development of the Northern Metropolis Area. Hong Kong is at a critical moment of transformation and the Northern Metropolis Area is a key engine for future economic development and technological innovation. The "Policy Address" proposes to expedite approvals, development, and construction by simplifying administrative measures, breaking down barriers, and setting special legislation for the development of the Northern Metropolis Area, promoting market participation and accelerating development. The Chief Executive personally leads the North Development Committee, elevating decision-making levels, and establishes three working groups led by him, the Financial Secretary, and the Deputy Financial Secretary of CKH HOLDINGS, to strengthen overall supervision, coordination, and oversight. Secondly, promoting the development of the artificial intelligence industry. Technological advancements are progressing rapidly, and artificial intelligence is at the core of the current technological revolution. The "Policy Address" unveils a series of measures to further advance artificial intelligence and data science development, and intensify efforts to cultivate local and attract international and mainland AI talents. The Chief Executive also announced the establishment of an AI Enhancement Taskforce to promote technological innovation within government departments, restructure workflows, and effectively utilize AI technology to enhance government efficiency. Thirdly, further strengthening the governance system. The "Policy Address" proposes to enhance the accountability of department heads by establishing a system of responsibilities for department heads, better aligning the formulation and execution of policies, focusing on removing bottlenecks, filling gaps, improving department efficiency, and determining shortcomings and responsibilities in the event of problems, conducting administrative or disciplinary actions as necessary, comprehensively raising the overall governance and efficiency of government departments. Fourthly, constructing an international education hub. Hong Kong possesses internationally renowned university teaching and research resources, attracting outstanding talents globally for education and research. The "Policy Address" introduces a series of measures such as relaxing the self-financed student enrollment cap, increasing student housing supply, and recruiting more international teaching and research talents and students, aiming to establish Hong Kong as an international hub for tertiary education and a gathering place for international high-end talents. Fifthly, comprehensively building a caring and inclusive society. Improving livelihoods, enhancing the happiness and satisfaction of citizens has always been a top priority in the governance of the current government. The "Policy Address" through various measures such as enriching the public housing ladder, strengthening grassroots healthcare, enhancing labor support and protection, strives for the welfare of society and improving livelihoods; continuing to implement the "targeted poverty alleviation" strategy, reinforcing the "Together We Create Bright Tomorrows" plan, establishing six community lounges, etc., effectively allocating resources to groups most in need of assistance. The "Policy Address" also proposes a series of short, medium, and long-term measures in various aspects such as industrial development, consolidation of international center status, innovation in science and technology, coordinated development of culture, sports and tourism, encouragement of childbirth, laying a solid foundation for Hong Kong's future development. He stated that he will continue to fully support and assist Chief Executive in governance, actively supervise, coordinate and oversee policies and departments to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of various policies and measures; simultaneously, unite the strength of the entire society, work together to make the citizens live and work in peace, make the society more caring and inclusive, and make the future of Hong Kong brighter and better.