Hong Kong’s DAB to set up talent office, asks government to invite Nobel winners to city

City’s biggest political party proposes 12 measures, including better support for children, to develop city into talent hub as directed by Beijing

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Crowds at the Global Talent Summit, held at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai in May. Photo: Eugene Lee

Published: 5:16pm, 14 Oct 2024Updated: 5:44pm, 14 Oct 2024

Hong Kong’s biggest political party has asked the government to invite Nobel laureates under proposed measures to develop the city into a top talent hub, as directed by central authorities.

The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) also said on Monday that it would set up a designated office next month staffed by about 10 people, which would focus on helping new talent arrivals in different areas, including their integration into local society.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu will deliver his third policy address on Wednesday and is expected to announce measures that will boost Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to attract overseas talent to the city.

The party said in a press conference that its twelve proposed measures were prompted by Beijing’s push for Hong Kong to be an “international hub for high-end talent”.

“Since Hong Kong aims to become a hub for international high-end talent, it is essential to consider its own industrial structure and development needs [when attracting talent],” said Starry Lee Wai-king, a former DAB chairwoman.

Lee recently stepped down as the party’s chief to focus on her role as the city’s sole representative on the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, China’s top legislative body.

Former DAB chairwoman Starry Lee also called for the government to provide support for the children of those waiting to renew their visas are the Top Talent Pass scheme. Photo: Sam Tsang