FS attends Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting in Milan, Italy (with photos/video)
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, arrived in Milan, Italy, yesterday (May 4, Milan time) to attend the 58th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Mr Chan participated in the ADB's Constituency Meeting, the main discussion topics of which included sharing co-operation experiences between the ADB and member countries, how to navigate the current economic risks and uncertainties in the region, optimising resource utilisation to better assist low- and middle-income countries, and providing technical assistance and capacity building for member countries. Mr Chan stated that Hong Kong, China welcomes the ADB's strengthened support for developing countries in addressing climate change, developing the private sector, promoting regional co-operation and digital transformation, etc. Moreover, Hong Kong, China supports enhancing technical assistance to developing member countries to improve the effectiveness of development projects. Mr Chan noted that, as an international financial centre, Hong Kong is willing to continue sharing knowledge and experiences with other members in areas such as establishing capital markets, promoting green transition and green finance development, and infrastructure financing.
Mr Chan also met with the Director representing Hong Kong, China's constituency in the ADB Board of Directors, Ms Rachel Thompson, to discuss how Hong Kong can better assist the ADB in the issuance of insurance-linked securities, including catastrophe bonds.
In the evening, Mr Chan attended a reception organised by Italy, the host country of the Annual Meeting.
Mr Chan will continue participating in the events related to the ADB Annual Meeting today (May 5, Milan time).
FS attends Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting in Milan, Italy (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
FS attends Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting in Milan, Italy (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
FS attends Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting in Milan, Italy (with photos/video) Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Notice on appointments to advisory and statutory bodies
A Government spokesman said today (January 12) that Mr Chan Kin-por recently sought approval from the Chief Executive to suspend his three public positions as appointed by the Chief Executive, until the completion of the work of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po (Independent Committee). Mr Chan made this request to allow himself more time to dedicate to the work of the Independent Committee. After due consideration, the Chief Executive has agreed to and approved this request. The three public positions are: (1) Chairman of Independent Commission Against Corruption Advisory Committee on Corruption; (2) Non-executive Director of Urban Renewal Authority Board; and (3) Member of Honours and Non-official Justices of the Peace Selection Committee.
On December 12, 2025, the Government established the Independent Committee to examine the causes of the incident and related issues, ascertain the facts, and make recommendations on preventing similar tragedies and on improvement measures. The Independent Committee is chaired by Mr Justice David Lok, with Mr Chan Kin-por and Dr Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen serving as members. The Independent Committee held its first meeting on December 19 last year and aims to complete its work within nine months of commencing operations.
Mr Chan Kin-por wrote earlier to the Chief Executive, expressing his wish to suspend the aforementioned three public positions until the Independent Committee completes its work, in order to dedicate more time and focus to the Independent Committee's tasks. The Chief Executive has agreed to and approved the request.
A Government spokesperson said that since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, both the Government and the wider community have been highly concerned about the causes of the incident and the follow-up work. The scope of the Independent Committee's work is extensive, particularly concerning systemic issues related to bid-rigging and connected interests. Given the numerous issues involved and their complex nature, the Government will fully co-operate with the Independent Committee to ensure that it can complete its work and compile its report within nine months. The Government extends its gratitude to Mr Chan for accepting the appointment as a member of the Independent Committee and for his professional and conscientious approach to the Committee's work. When the Independent Committee's work is completed, the Government looks forward to Mr Chan's continuous contribution through his aforementioned public positions.
Source: AI-found images
