The Chief Executive's Council of Advisers on Innovation and Strategic Development (the Council) held its 10th meeting online today (December 8) to discuss the 2020 Policy Address delivered by the Chief Executive on November 25, 2020.
 
     Members acknowledged the efforts put into the 2020 Policy Address against the tough circumstances and commended it as a comprehensive and visionary blueprint that has charted a future course for Hong Kong. Members pointed out that the COVID-19 epidemic was the most pressing issue at present, and they looked to the Government to lead the community in fighting this epidemic, stressing on the need to step up epidemic control measures decisively and ensure early and sufficient supply of vaccines.   

     On future economic development, members agreed that Hong Kong should leverage its unique advantages under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development in all aspects, including innovation and technology, professional services, education, etc. Members expressed deep appreciation for the strong support given by the Central People's Government during the Chief Executive's trip to Beijing and reiterated the importance of Hong Kong working closely with Guangdong. On co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, members agreed with the Chief Executive's vision of a "twin-city" growth engine development model.

     Many members spoke on the importance of engaging the international community and gave many suggestions on how the HKSAR Government could mount an effective public relations campaign. They supported the Government's efforts to strengthen external promotion, to recruit talents and to seek to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. Members also offered valuable views on the approach to deliver messages for key target audience such as investors, the business community and overseas talents.   

     The Council is a high-level body to give advice on Hong Kong's strategic positioning in the global and regional contexts and directions of economic development, provide guidance on evidence-based research and studies on related issues, and advise on stakeholder engagement and public participation in the policy formulation and consensus building process.
 

Ends/Tuesday, December 8, 2020
Issued at HKT 22:47

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