Hong Kong’s Road to Rebuilding its International Profile
In a recent interview on RTHK, Bernard Chan, chairman of Our Hong Kong Foundation, highlighted the pressing need for Hong Kong to rebuild its international profile following the significant damage caused by the social unrest in 2019 and the ongoing pandemic. According to Chan, the city is currently grappling with deep-rooted social conflicts, as well as external challenges in the form of foreign smears and negative media coverage. He emphasized the importance of conveying the right message to the international community in order to dispel the negative impressions that many still hold about Hong Kong.
Chan pointed out that a large number of individuals outside of Hong Kong have not had the opportunity to revisit the city since the unrest in 2019. He stressed the importance of providing them with reasons to come back and witness the current situation firsthand. By inviting visitors to experience Hong Kong for themselves, Chan believes that they will be able to form a more accurate assessment of the city’s future prospects.
Economic Challenges and Opportunities
In addition to addressing social and political issues, Chan underscored the significance of tackling both cyclical and structural challenges in Hong Kong’s economy. While cyclical problems are expected to diminish over time, he called for proactive measures from various sectors to enhance competitiveness and relevance in the global market. Chan’s remarks shed light on the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation to ensure long-term economic sustainability.
One of the key setbacks faced by Hong Kong is the recent strain in trade and cooperation with the United States. The approval of a bill by the US House of Representatives that could potentially lead to the closure of the city’s Economic and Trade Offices in major American cities poses a significant threat to Hong Kong’s economic interests. Despite the difficulty in altering the stance of US politicians, Chan emphasized the importance of maintaining exchanges among community organizations on non-political issues such as climate change.
Building Bridges through Dialogue and Collaboration
While acknowledging the challenges that Hong Kong currently faces on the international front, Chan reiterated the importance of fostering communication and collaboration with global partners. He emphasized that avoiding dialogue only serves to hinder progress and exacerbate misunderstandings. By engaging in meaningful exchanges on shared concerns such as climate change, Chan believes that Hong Kong can demonstrate its commitment to global cooperation and inclusivity.
In conclusion, Bernard Chan’s insights shed light on the critical need for Hong Kong to revitalize its international standing in the aftermath of the 2019 social unrest and the ongoing pandemic. By addressing social, economic, and political challenges head-on, Hong Kong can pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future on the global stage. Through open communication, collaboration, and innovation, the city can rebuild its reputation and forge enduring partnerships with the international community.