Hong Kong is seeking to strengthen its role as an international hub for health and medical innovation under its first Five-Year Plan, Chief Executive John Lee said Thursday, September 24.

Speaking via video at the World Cancer Congress, Lee said the plan complements the mainland’s “Healthy China” strategy by promoting deeper international cooperation in public health and professional exchanges.

He highlighted plans to expand collaboration with the Greater Bay Area and international partners in research and development, clinical trials, biotechnology and precision medicine. The city also aims to attract leading pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals from around the world.

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and National Health Commission official Gao Guangming also addressed the event, highlighting progress and the importance of international cooperation in cancer prevention and care.

The three-day congress, held in Hong Kong for the first time, brought together around 2,000 experts and policymakers from more than 120 countries and regions.