The “Union of Chinese Contemporaries” 2024 Summit of young entrepreneurs from Macao, Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, themed “Collaborative Innovation: Chasing Dreams in the Greater Bay Area,” opened on September 11 in Hong Kong. The event brought together over 400 young entrepreneurs and leaders to explore business opportunities and cooperation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
Fostering Innovation and Collaboration
The Summit was graced by high-profile figures such as Leung Chun-ying, Vice Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). In his opening remarks, Leung Chun-ying highlighted Hong Kong’s unique role as an international hub for finance, shipping, and trade, emphasizing the city’s potential to support the Greater Bay Area’s high-quality development. He encouraged young entrepreneurs to seize opportunities for national rejuvenation through innovation and collaboration.
John Lee Ka-chiu reinforced this vision, stating that the Summit offers a key platform for entrepreneurs across the region to engage in mutual learning and cooperation. He noted that the GBA presents tremendous opportunities for Taiwanese businesses and encouraged entrepreneurs to actively participate in the region’s high-quality development.
Promoting Multilateral Cooperation
Lin Keqing, Chairman of the Guangdong Provincial Committee of the CPPCC, emphasized the significance of the GBA’s fifth anniversary and the progress made in innovation and synergy across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. He highlighted the central role of cross-strait integration and collaboration in driving the region’s growth. Wang Rong, Deputy Director of the CPPCC’s Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Overseas Chinese Committee, echoed this sentiment, citing the GBA as a rising global hub for technological innovation and industrial development.
Lien Sheng-wen, Vice Chairman of the Kuomintang, spoke on the region’s vast potential, particularly for young entrepreneurs who are increasingly drawn to the GBA’s thriving startup ecosystem.
Building a Sustainable Future in the Greater Bay Area
The summit featured in-depth discussions on green development, digital innovation, and modern finance, with leaders and entrepreneurs sharing insights on the latest industry trends. The afternoon sessions included roundtable dialogues where young entrepreneurs discussed strategies for digital transformation and the integration of smart technologies within their industries. Participants shared their experiences and explored ways to strengthen collaboration across the GBA.
Stephen Tai Tak-fung, President of the Hong Kong Guangdong Chamber of Foreign Investors, emphasized that the Summit aligns with the goals of the Third Plenary Session of the Communist Party of China, which focuses on deepening reforms and fostering cross-regional collaboration. He urged young leaders to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the GBA to drive national high-quality development.
Exploring Hong Kong’s Financial and Cultural Landscape
To deepen understanding and enhance collaboration, the Summit arranged a series of visits to key Hong Kong landmarks, including the HKMA Information Centre, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong, Cyberport, and the Palace Museum. These visits offered young entrepreneurs a comprehensive view of Hong Kong’s finance, innovation, and cultural sectors, further strengthening cross-regional ties.
Building a Collaborative Future
The 2024 Greater Bay Area Summit serves as a pivotal platform for young entrepreneurs from Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan to explore new business opportunities, foster innovation, and drive cross-strait cooperation. By uniting leaders and entrepreneurs, the Summit paves the way for high-quality development in the Greater Bay Area, promoting a shared vision of prosperity and integration across the region.
With its focus on collaborative innovation and economic development, the Summit continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the GBA and beyond, while promoting peaceful and prosperous cross-strait relations.
