HK's Advantages Won't Be Taken Away: Christopher Hui

Financial services secretary Christopher Hui has expressed confidence that this week's Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit can showcase Hong Kong's advantages, despite US politicians slamming guests who attend the event, citing human rights concerns.

His comment came after two US lawmakers called on bankers not to attend the first high-profile financial event staged in the SAR since the pandemic began almost three years ago.

Speaking on a radio programme on Sunday, Hui said Hong Kong's advantages would not be easily taken away by a few comments.

"We are confident in organising international financial events like the Global Financial Summit, because one of our advantages is that we are open to the world, with support from the mainland. This is our unique advantage as an international financial centre… Our advantages will not be taken away by just a few words," he said.

Meanwhile, Hui said 12,000 guests from over 300 financial institutions have signed up for another high-profile event, the Hong Kong FinTech Week – during which authorities will unveil a policy statement on virtual assets.

The treasury minister noted that the administration will introduce new legislation to regulate virtual assets in Hong Kong and enhance investor education to prevent money laundering.

Separately, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said his condition is improving after contracting Covid-19 in Saudi Arabia, and will try his best to return to Hong Kong to attend the summit of global financial leaders.

He came down with the coronavirus last Thursday, the last day of his Middle East work trip.

Writing on his online blog, Chan said that if he couldn't attend the summit in person, he would still take part in the event via video link.

The finance chief added that his visit to the Middle East had been fruitful as he was able to promote Hong Kong as a platform for funds and opportunities.