Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee and Beijing Mayor Yin Yong met on November 12, 2025, at Government House in Hong Kong to reinforce economic and strategic partnerships between the two major cities. The high-level meeting focused on capitalizing on Hong Kong’s unique global positioning to assist mainland enterprises, particularly those from Beijing, in expanding internationally, while also leveraging Beijing’s strengths to advance Hong Kong’s status as a burgeoning innovation and technology hub.
The gathering underscores the significance of the long-standing Hong Kong/Beijing Co-operation Conference mechanism, which serves as a vital platform for sustained mutual benefits. The bilateral discussion touched upon enhanced collaboration across critical sectors including finance, trade, healthcare, youth exchanges, and, most prominently, innovation and technology (I&T).
Leveraging Dual Advantages for Global Outreach
Chief Executive Lee emphasized Hong Kong’s unparalleled competitive edge under the “one country, two systems” framework, positioning the city as a crucial pivot for both investment in and out of the mainland. Hong Kong actively seeks to expand its international engagement, serving as a dynamic platform for Mainland firms seeking to “go global” and attracting inbound international investment.
To solidify this role, Mr. Lee highlighted the specialized Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global. This cross-sector initiative unites professionals dedicated to helping mainland companies utilize Hong Kong’s robust financial, legal, and professional services infrastructure to facilitate their overseas expansion. Mayor Yin Yong was encouraged to guide more Beijing enterprises to leverage Hong Kong as their essential springboard into global markets.
Synergies in Innovation and Technology
A major theme of the discussion revolved around the complementary strengths in innovation and technology. Beijing is recognized for its powerhouse capabilities in scientific research and development, while Hong Kong maintains a globally competitive edge, ranking third in the World Digital Competitiveness Ranking.
Mr. Lee affirmed Hong Kong’s commitment to building a premier global I&T hub. Key developments include advancing the Hong Kong Park within the Hetao Shenzhen–Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone and driving broader industry development. Both leaders expressed aspirations for deeper I&T cooperation, aiming to contribute significantly to the nation’s overarching ambition of becoming a global science and technology powerhouse.
Strategic Timing and Future Outlook
The meeting takes place during a critical juncture: the conclusion of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan period and the preparatory phase for the 15th Five-Year Plan. These periods are marked by the central government’s commitment to wider, high-level opening up and increasing two-way investment opportunities.
By intensifying collaboration across these multiple fronts, Hong Kong and Beijing aim to align their respective development strategies with national objectives. The enhanced partnership is expected to play an instrumental role in supporting China’s pursuit of high-quality development, ensuring that both cities contribute substantially to the nation’s economic resilience and technological advancement in the decade ahead. The continued strong institutional support from the Central Authorities ensures that these initiatives will yield substantial and lasting benefits for both regions.