HONG KONG – More than 3,600 financial and business heavyweights from around the world will gather in Hong Kong to attend the 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF), set to start on Jan 13, to explore global investment trends, challenges and opportunities.
Global business leaders and policymakers will share their insights and opinions at the two-day forum. Among them are: Justin Lin Yifu, former chief economist and senior vice-president of the World Bank; Stuart Russell, co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI; Li Kaifu, chairman of Sinovation Ventures; and Joe Tsai, chairman of Alibaba.
Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the region’s first major international business gathering this year will focus on analyzing development drives, artificial intelligence, the establishment of family offices, green and sustainable development, and Islamic finance.
Spectator stand space
Seething crowds are expected on Hong Kong streets once again on Jan 29, the first day of Chinese New Year, to witness the annual Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade.
Giant pandas, local delicacies, city landscapes, and nine floats showcasing Hong Kong’s most iconic symbols will cut a wide swath to welcome the Year of the Snake. The event will also feature vibrant performances by some 50 teams from Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland, and other places.
The parade routes of Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road are dotted with free spectator-friendly spots. Meanwhile, tickets for spectator stands at the best viewing locations will be up for sale from Jan 11.
Guangdong Provincial People's Congress
The third plenary session of the 14th Guangdong Provincial People's Congress will be held from Jan 15 to Jan 18.
Wang Weizhong, governor of Guangdong province, will deliver the government’s annual work report, including the province’s economic performance and GDP forecast in 2025.
During the session, press conferences will be held to highlight economic and social development, budget reform, people's livelihoods, ecological improvement, and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as well.
