Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu delivers a speech at the Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit 2023 at a hotel in Hong Kong, Nov 7, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

Hong Kong will continue to host largescale international events to promote development in the eight core areas outlined in the nation’s 14th Five-Year Plan, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said during his weekly press briefing on Tuesday.

According to the plan, Hong Kong is positioned to develop as an international or regional hub in eight key areas — finance, inno-tech, cultural exchange, trade, shipping, aviation, legal services, and intellectual property trading.

Speaking prior to the weekly Executive Council meeting, Lee said that since November, Hong Kong has hosted a number of international events, fully demonstrating the city's advantages in enjoying the strong support of the country and being closely connected to the world.

Many of the industry representatives said they appreciate Hong Kong's geographical, financial and research strengths, and expect Hong Kong to become the world's top green financial center

Lee mentioned that this year's Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit, an annual flagship event organized by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, attracted more people and organizations than did last year’s event. About 300 representatives from 160 financial institutions around the world gathered in Hong Kong. Over 90 organizations sent their group chairman or chief executive to attend the event.

Many of the industry representatives said they appreciate Hong Kong's geographical, financial and research strengths, and expect Hong Kong to become the world's top green financial center.

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Lee also said that the five-day Hong Kong Legal Week 2023, which ended last Friday, attracted more than 11,000 people from more than 50 jurisdictions to participate, both online and offline. Experts from around the world discussed several important issues, including mediation and arbitration.

In addition, the award ceremony for The Shaw Prize 2023 — an international prize established in Hong Kong which honors remarkable scientific achievements — was held on Sunday. And the Hong Kong Laureate Forum, which brings together Shaw Laureates and distinguished scientists, began on Nov 13. Lee believes that these world-class academic exchange event will help enhance Hong Kong's reputation and standing in the international science and technology community.

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Lee also provided a preview of the upcoming seventh Hong Kong Maritime Week, to be held from Nov 19 to 25. He hopes the event will help Hong Kong strengthen its position as an international maritime center and introduce the city's maritime business to the world.