HK 'to widen trade reach to help nation go global'

Chief Executive John Lee on Thursday said Hong Kong would continue to expand its international trade network to better contribute to the country's overall development. Speaking at the Hong Kong sub-forum of the Hongqiao International Economic Forum in Shanghai, he noted the event was the first major conference held by the SAR since the unveiling of its first-ever five-year plan in September. The conference, Lee said, allowed experts and industry leaders from both the mainland and Hong Kong to gather and explore how the city could leverage its unique position under "One Country, Two Systems" and integrate into national development. One key focus area is trade, he said. “Hong Kong has become the fifth-largest merchandise trading entity in the world, having signed free-trade agreements with 21 economies and investment agreements with 34 economies," Lee said. "The SAR government will continue to expand its international economic and trade network to play a greater role in the country’s high-standard opening up." The world, Lee pointed out, is experiencing a once-in-a-century transformation, which is happening alongside a global supply chain restructuring and rapid technological advancement. He stressed that Hong Kong must proactively plan for its future and implement a forward-looking strategic plan with a calm and measured approach. Another key focus...