(Hong Kong China News Agency reporter Liang Jiaxuan) The 2026 Global Prosperity Summit, co-hosted by the Think Tank for Hong Kong Policy Research, the Shanghai Academy of International Studies, and the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, was held in Hong Kong on the 19th. The conference focused on China’s global governance initiatives, as well as innovative drug development in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area and Hong Kong’s role as a hub for sports, culture, and leisure.

The photo shows the event venue. Photo by Hong Kong China News Agency

At a welcome banquet on the 18th, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated that, in today’s world of geopolitical and economic turmoil, Hong Kong stands out as an economy and society built on stability, certainty, and trust—valuable assets conferred by the “One Country, Two Systems” principle. These strengths are highly regarded because they bolster confidence, foster cooperation, and create numerous opportunities for collaboration.

The two-day conference kicked off on the 19th. In her address, Regina Ip, Convenor of the Non‑Official Members of the Executive Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Chairwoman of the Hong Kong Think Tank, stated that Hong Kong serves as a nexus where East meets West, tradition converges with innovation, and international capital intersects with national development. As these diverse ideas, institutions, and models engage in frequent interaction, clashes and tensions are sometimes inevitable. In such circumstances, Hong Kong has stepped up to facilitate dialogue, exchange, and pragmatic cooperation.

During a keynote address, Han Zhiqiang, Vice President of the Chinese People’s Association for Foreign Affairs, offered an interpretation of China’s global governance initiatives, highlighting three key points: first, rallying the power of unity is the most resolute message conveyed by these initiatives; second, upholding multilateralism is their most unequivocal stance; and third, striving for a future characterized by fairness and justice represents their most cherished vision.

Han Zhiqiang stated that, as the world is beset by intertwined turmoil and uncertainty, there is a greater need than ever to uphold equality, consultation, and mutual respect. He pointed out that if one blindly worships the supremacy of power and indulges in hegemonic bullying, it will only plunge the world into a lawless jungle where the strong prey on the weak, thereby undermining the very foundations of the international system and its rules. He stated that the Global Governance Initiative sends a powerful message of our times—calling on all countries to pull together and jointly address challenges, while forging a consensus and mobilizing strength in favor of unity rather than division, and cooperation rather than confrontation.

The prospects of the biopharmaceutical sector in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area, along with Hong Kong’s opportunities in culture, sports, and tourism, offered summit participants a “Hong Kong perspective” on the broader landscape.

The day’s inaugural专题 roundtable discussion focused on “Innovative Drug Development in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area.” Chen Sujuan, Senior Executive Director of the Hong Kong Research-Based Pharmaceutical Association, stated that Hong Kong’s unique advantage as a “super-connector” can help mainland innovative pharmaceutical companies leverage Hong Kong to access global markets and regulatory pathways. She pointed out that if Hong Kong’s pharmaceutical product certificates were to achieve international mutual recognition, it would benefit both the industry and Hong Kong as a whole.

Culture, sports, and tourism also play the role of “internal connectivity and external access.” “Hong Kong is renowned not only for its banking, shopping, and dining, but also for its century-old horse racing, sailing culture, and rich natural landscapes.” Bertrand Béguin, founder and race director of the “Hong Kong Four Trails Super Challenge,” said in an interview following the second panel discussion that Hong Kong’s role as a bridge is also evident in sports: Mainland athletes frequently compete in Hong Kong, which helps individuals and businesses in the sector gain exposure on the international stage.

The forum also addresses issues such as crypto assets, international trade, and commercial space exploration, while highlighting Hong Kong’s role in these areas. (The End)