Hong Kong to be a 'super-connector' in reform and opening-up: Leung Chun-ying

Hong Kong should continue to make good use of its strength to serve China’s reform and opening-up, Leung Chun-ying, former chief executive of Hong Kong and now deputy chairman of the national committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference said.

The special administrative region is strong in many aspects, including finance, trade, tourism and research and development, which can serve as a "super-connector" to the mainland, Leung said during a lecture held at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences on Friday, which is part of the events celebrating the academy's 60th anniversary.

“To serve the needs of the country, with the strength of the city, is what Hong Kong is expected to do,” Leung said as he addressed more than 100 academics.

Hong Kong is well-known for its finance industry as well as its trade and tourism, but Leung said research and development is another strong point as it boasts a comprehensive legal system, especially its intellectual property law, that is widely recognized by the international community.

“Hong Kong belongs to China, but it has a different political system, which is the city’s biggest strength,” Leung said.

Talking about China’s reform and opening-up endeavors, Leung said there are three aspects that have sustained the success of China: courage in overcoming difficulties, ambition for success despite hardship, and the ability to learn from others.

“Although we have surpassed some countries in certain aspects, we should continue to stick to the rule of learning from others,” Leung said. “China’s reform and opening-up is far from complete, and Hong Kong should be a ‘super-connector’ in the process,” Leung said.

He also hoped Hong Kong residents coming to the mainland could do so with less hassle, especially after the launch of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.