Editorial | Hong Kong can look forward to new chapter under 15th five-year plan

Hong Kong and Macau’s future lies in a strong, stable and prosperous China. That pivotal relationship is entering a new stage as Beijing outlines the economic and social goals of its 15th five-year plan. It is imperative that the administrations in both cities work closely with all sectors to align with the new direction and seize the opportunities for strategic development in the next critical phase.

On Monday, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and his team held a study session on the “spirit” of the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party, days after the recommendations for the 15th five-year plan were endorsed by the party. Hong Kong, Lee said, must put the spirit into practice and strive to make good use of its unique advantages of “having the strong support of the country while being closely connected to the world” under the “one country, two systems” framework.

The new blueprint, the details of which were released on Tuesday, provides the clearest guidance yet on the way forward for the country, including its two special administrative regions. In addition to the “eight-centres” strategy for Hong Kong outlined in the previous plan, which highlights the city’s role in finance, trade and shipping, among other sectors, Hong Kong and Macau will also be given help to build a high-end talent hub.

Hong Kong has made good progress on integrating into national development under the current five-year plan. This includes acting as a “superconnector” and “super value-adder” between the mainland and the rest of the world amid intensifying geopolitical tensions and a changing business landscape. The drive for the southern cities in the Greater Bay Area to become a new economic powerhouse is also accelerating as the city steps up its role as a global aviation centre as well as a talent and technology hub. Separately, efforts have been made to enhance administration efficiency and accountability.