Hong Kong's financial system remains stable and remarkably successful, said the chief executive of the Special Administrative Region (SAR) Carrie lam Monday at the 13th Asian Financial Forum.
"Our core competitiveness and our status as one of the world's premier financial centers continues to be internationally recognized. Last September, we again ranked third in the world in the Global Financial Center's Index," said Lam.
That's a compelling statement of confidence in HK's freely convertible currency, a world-class banking system and stock market and professionals who power a financial sector, Lam said. It's a telling reflection of HK's strategic geographic location and sophisticated connections to global financial markets.
"People around the world are confident in our regimes. They take reassurance in our trusted and bilingual common law system, our sound financial regulatory framework, low taxes and deep connections with the mainland and the rest of the world," Lam said. "Our financial systems have not been undermined despite experiencing considerable social unrest and challenges in recent months through the concerted efforts of the government and the people of HK."
"I'm confident that we will breach a divide that we will realize the common goal of a reunited community and a flourishing economy," Lam stressed.