🏛️Insights from 两会 - China's Two Sessions (NPC and CPPCC)
Our friend Nick Chan, BBS, MH, JP graciously invited us to the beautifully refurbished Former French Mission Building to discuss the insights and opportunities from the Two Sessions with Starry Lee GBS, LegCo member (former chair of the current biggest party) and a member of the Standing Committee of the NPC (she definitely knows something, right!). While I’d love to spill all the juicy details, but as a lawyer, I'll comply with the Chatham House Rule, so keeping it general!
One thing is clear: “One Country, Two Systems” continues to stand strong in the region, and Hong Kong’s strength lies in not being “just another Mainland city.” With that gigantic bridge (yes, it really does serve a purpose!), the interconnectivity between Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China is smoother than ever. Yet, Hong Kong's own legal and financial systems remain the vital bridges connecting it to the world. That is precisely how Hong Kong can fit in the wider strategy of China's development, aligning objectives and growing together, leveraging Hong Kong's unique positioning and expertise.
Curiously, got to understand that it was actually Starry that suggested and got the Central Gov to issue mainland China travel cards to non-Chinese permanent residents of the Special Administrative Regions (what a blessing to ease travel..), another example of openness from China to the outside like I never seen in my more than a decade herein, like I referred during my intervention. I cheekily asked for a few more “goodies,” but clearly I was being a bit too greedy - still, I’ll gladly take up Starry’s sugggestion to make further proposals.
Creds for the organization to AALCO Hong Kong Regional Arbitration Centre, precisely an example of how Hong Kong can serve as this global mediation center better than any. Recently got on the Panel of Arbitrators at eBRAM International Online Dispute Resolution Centre, my cue now to join AALCO's panel as well, evidently if they are willing to consider my application!