14th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) After a break since Christmas Eve last year, the Executive Council reconvened in the new year today. Chief Executive John Lee addressed the press prior to the meeting, revealing that starting tomorrow, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport holders traveling to Saudi Arabia can obtain on-arrival tourist visas at designated ports of entry, allowing for multiple stays of up to 90 days. Saudi nationals visiting Hong Kong enjoy reciprocal visa-free stays for up to 90 days. Hong Kong passports grant landing visa and visa-free privileges in all six Gulf countries.
Lee began by highlighting the Asian Financial Forum held in Hong Kong from 13th January, emphasising its role in enhancing international connections. The forum introduced several initiatives in collaboration with the People’s Bank of China and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, focusing on expanding and improving bond connectivity in the Southbound Bond Connect, as well as enhancing cross-border fast payment systems. Lee expressed gratitude for the central government’s support, emphasising the importance of enhancing Hong Kong’s role as an international financial hub and renminbi trading centre.
Additionally, Lee announced upcoming public engagements, including the public debut of twin giant pandas in February, the opening of Kai Tak Sports Park in March, the launch of the first phase of Simplex public housing, and the expected initial occupancy of the Greater Bay Area Innovation and Technology Park in the latter half of the year.
In outlining Hong Kong’s goals for 2025, Lee stressed the importance of leveraging the advantages of “One Country, Two Systems,” expanding global trade networks through signing free trade agreements with other economies to support businesses. He expressed the desire for Hong Kong to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to stimulate economic growth.
Furthermore, Lee highlighted key areas for development, including deepening healthcare reforms, advancing medical services through the reform of the Hospital Authority and Department of Health, enhancing drug evaluation and application processes, and unveiling a blueprint for the development of traditional Chinese medicine. Efforts will also be made to optimise targeted poverty alleviation, expand the scope of the Guangdong hostel plan, and extend the Love and Care Team support for seniors to all eighteen districts in Hong Kong.
The discussion also touched upon the recent collapse of a large shed structure at Kai Tak construction site, resulting in injuries to eleven workers. Lee emphasised the government’s commitment to industrial safety, with penalties and fines raised to HK$1 million and a maximum prison sentence of 2 years for severe violations. Work at the site has been halted, pending a comprehensive investigation by the Labour Department to address any unlawful practices.
Regarding the extension of border operations during the New Year with mainland China, Lee disclosed that the Secretary for Administration and Civil Service is evaluating the influx of visitors during the festive period to make informed decisions. Details of holiday activities, crowd management, and border arrangements will be released after a comprehensive review.
In response to queries about the relocation of the former Chief Executive’s office to the former Wan Chai Immigration Tower, Lee assured that the redevelopment projects will proceed as planned to utilise the vacant building efficiently, ensuring prudent use of public resources. Despite financial constraints, infrastructure projects averaging HK$90 billion annually will continue, encompassing initiatives in the northern metropolis, housing projects, and industrial development.
The resurgence of scam activities in Myanmar has led to the restriction of seven men and five women from Hong Kong in Southeast Asia. Undersecretary for Security Michael Cheuk Hau-yip led a team to Thailand on 12th January to monitor the rescue progress at the KK Park compound.
Lee addressed inquiries about the Security Bureau’s response to the hostage situation in Thailand, emphasising the strenuous efforts made by the authorities to ensure the safety of individuals restricted under dubious circumstances. He urged vigilance against fraudulent activities, highlighting ongoing collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to facilitate the safe return of affected Hong Kong residents. While 16 individuals have returned to Hong Kong, efforts are ongoing to assist the remaining 12 individuals. Assistance from the Chinese Embassy in Thailand, including establishing communication networks, has been instrumental in these efforts.
The recent involvement of Robert Chung, Chairman of the Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute, in an investigation related to the case of Chung Kim-wah, a former Deputy Chief Executive, led to his detainment by the National Security Department. Subsequent searches were conducted at the institute’s headquarters in Wong Chuk Hang, signalling potential developments related to the actions of the National Security Department.
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