Hong Kong ‘will deepen technology, industry links under nation’s blueprint’

Hong Kong will promote the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation through opportunities brought by the nation’s blueprint to drive economic growth, the finance chief has pledged, two weeks ahead of the annual budget.Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po on Sunday also said that Hong Kong must better utilise its strengths as an international financial centre to empower and speed up industrial development as the city enters the first year of the national 15th Five-Year Plan.“The 15th Five-Year Plan is the most important guiding principle for the country’s socio-economic development over the next five years,” Chan wrote on his weekly blog ahead of his annual budget announcement on February 25.“There is a high level of attention both at home and abroad, with a desire to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the country’s future development direction and the opportunities it presents. The 15th Five-Year Plan also points the way for accelerating development and increasing capacity in the next stage of Hong Kong’s growth.”Chan revealed a recent exchange between senior officials and lawmakers on proactively aligning with mainland China’s national plan, observing a consensus that the city had unique strengths in finance, trade and innovation and technology (I&T) and new areas and developments offered “abundant opportunities”.Separately, a recent forum hosted by the Hong Kong Productivity Council with more than 500 representatives also underscored the importance of fostering collaboration and driving the integration of scientific and industrial innovation, he added.